Office: 718-588-7300 | Fax: 352-845-8007
Our Team
Steve Thompson, President & CEO
The simplest way to describe me is with a quote from Jimmy Buffet, who, when asked how he would describe himself, stated:
"My work is my play and my play is my work!"
I love what I do. I get to talk to and assist thousands of people every year! It's the most enjoyable and rewarding life I could ever imagine. Add in Paula, my wife and Office Manager, our two Goldens, Sammy, and Stella, a sprinkle of current events, politics, finances, and the beach—any beach—anywhere, and I'm a happy man!
Favorite Ice Cream:
Mint Chip Italian Ice……..still a work in progress.
Slade Harmon, Vice President & Chief Engineer
Having worked in the design and manufacturing industry for nearly 40 years, I have gained a vast knowledge of materials, systems, and methods of implementing them. This allows me to create machines that are highly functional, efficient, and long-lasting.
I enjoy the challenge of solving problems, many times with new and unique solutions. At Emery Thompson, I use all of these skills and experience to continuously refine our machines to bring you the absolute best and most affordable equipment.
Fun Fact About Me: I love to be outdoors as much as possible; doing home improvement projects; visiting with friends and relatives and “wrangling” three rescue beagles with my wife.
Favorite Ice Cream:
Coffee Ice Cream
Christi Brown, Vice President Sales & Marketing
Having spent almost 20 years working in the food industry, I have seen the industry evolve in numerous ways and have witnessed the challenges and opportunities that come with it. I am really proud of what I do and love seeing the huge impact our batch freezers have on people's lives. Whether it’s opening a new store, creating a new recipe, or expanding an existing business I am able to provide guidance to turn their dreams into a reality.
Fun Fact About Me: I have flown on the same airplane as former President Jimmy Carter, had lunch with Vanilla Ice at an airport, and acquired 100,000 frequent flyer miles by the age of ten years old. I basically grew up in an airport!
Favorite Quote: “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor” ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt
Favorite Ice Cream:
My boozy ice that I made called, “Florida Hurricane” – and you can find it in the book I wrote!
Olga Shuler, Comptroller
After dedicating more than 40 years of my life to the accounting industry, it has become my true passion. I obtained a master’s degree in economics and finances from St. Petersburg University in Russia, and later completed an MBA with an Accounting Major from St. Leo University in Florida. Coming from Russia, I have always aspired to work for a company that embodies the values that every business should have, and Emery Thompson is the perfect example of that.
Fun Fact About Me: I enjoy exploring new places, especially in Florida, watching sci-fi movies, and spending time near the ocean.
Favorite Quote: “The absence of alternatives clears the mind marvelously”
~ Henry Kissinger
Favorite Ice Cream:
Orange Italian Ice, made with real oranges!
Paula Thompson, Office Manager
Working at the happiest place on earth is an experience of a lifetime. From the moment I step into my workplace, I feel a sense of joy and positivity. As I interact with customers, I am constantly reminded of the power of human connection by simply making ice cream! It's amazing to see how a simple conversation can turn into a lifelong friendship.
Fun Fact About Me: I love gardening, Hot Yoga on Saturday mornings, running 5K’s, and an avid NY Yankees Fan!
Favorite Quote: “You can often change your circumstances by changing your attitude” ~ Elanor Roosevelt
Favorite Ice Cream:
Coffee Espresso Ice Cream with Chocolate Nibs
Mike McDonald, Senior Technician
In my almost 50 years of working in the packaging machinery industry, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a technician is the opportunity to help others. I take great pride in exceeding customer expectations and am committed to delivering exceptional service, which has earned me a reputation as the “The Maytag Man”.
Fun Fact About Me: Cheesehead from Wisconsin and a BIG Green Bay Packers Fan.
Favorite Ice Cream:
Pistachio Cherry Ice Cream
Mikaila Harwell, Parts Department
As a US Navy veteran and a mother of three, I have proven my ability to handle anything that life throws my way. My goal is to provide our customers with the best possible service and support, especially when it comes to their parts sales needs and providing you with exceptional service that you deserve.
Fun Fact About Me: I grew up on a horse farm, love the outdoors, crafting, making candles and anything Matcha!
Favorite Quote: “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy ice cream, which is basically the same thing” ~anonymous
Favorite Ice Cream:
Chocolate Fudge Brownie Ice Cream
Kendel Morgan, Customer Relations
At Emery Thompson, our success is driven by the satisfaction of our customers. Part of why I love my job is that I get to ensure that every customer who interacts with us has a positive experience. Whether you have a question, concern, or just want to have a friendly chat, I am always here to listen and assist you in any way possible. We consider every customer to be a part of our family, and I am excited to welcome you to the Emery Thompson family!
Fun Fact About Me: Earned a two-year degree from the International Academy of Merchandizing and Design, reading a good book, spending time with my grandson and gardening.
Favorite Quote: “Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you” ~ Golden Rule
Favorite Ice Cream:
Coffee Espresso Ice Cream with Chocolate Chips
Last but Not Least
Samantha Jane & Stella Jane
Thompson
Samantha was born in Bedford, NY. At the age of 8 weeks old, Steve flew with her on JetBlue to Tampa, where she started working at Emery Thompson the following week.
Stella was born in Boston, MA. She joined our family when she was 5 years old, and also flew down on JetBlue to Tampa. Stella is a calm and loving dog, who enjoys carrying her toys from one room to another. Stella is an avid squirrel hunter, who loves chasing balls in the backyard and rolling in the grass, acting goofy! Sammy, on the other hand, is my “wild child,” so it’s a good balance. Samantha was a typical puppy, full of energy, so darn cute, and would chew on furniture legs and socks.
Both Sammy and Stella work full-time at Emery Thompson as Chief and Head of Security.
R.I.P. Stella Jane Thompson, 11.3.2015 ~ 1.24.2024
K9's For Warriors
Every machine purchased from Emery Thompson triggers a meaningful contribution to K9's For Warriors. We urge you to join us in supporting this noble cause. K9's For Warriors is a vital charity committed to supplying service canines to our brave warriors grappling with life-altering injuries and post-traumatic stress stemming from post-9/11 conflicts and war. Act now! Your assistance can transform a hero's life today.
