From general labor to production manager – “Hard work and dedication opened the doors” 20.8.2025 |

Treston, a global supplier of ergonomic industrial workstations, is home to many employees with long and inspiring careers. One of them is Navor Martin, whose journey began in 1984 at CF&A (Computer Furniture & Accessories, now IAC, a division of Treston) and continues today as Production Manager at Treston USA.

His path is a story of determination, learning by doing, and loyalty — from starting in hands-on production roles to leading entire departments.

From a small village to the factory floor

Navor grew up in a small village in Jalisco, Mexico, without electricity or access to higher education. After completing only elementary school, he later moved to the U.S., where he studied English as a Second Language and took mechanic and building trades courses to expand his skills.

In 1984, at just 17 years old, friends from his hometown helped him secure a job at CF&A.

“At first, the manager didn’t want to hire me because I was underage, but my friend convinced him to give me a chance. I proved myself from there,” Navor recalls.

He started as a general helper in the laminating department and, within just two weeks, was promoted to assembly and pack-out.

In 1987, CF&A was sold to Zero Corporation and relocated to North Hollywood. Since only a handful of employees made the move, Navor quickly took on greater responsibility and, at just 20 years old, became leadman for pack-out and assembly.

Not long after, CF&A became part of IAC Industries, when Isles Industries, Advance Engineering, and CF&A were merged under one name. Navor continued to grow with the new company, working on the pack-out line and as a quality control inspector. With calipers and notebook in hand, he moved through the factory checking sheet metal parts, and sometimes traveled to customer sites to help resolve assembly issues. 

“One of my early projects was at a National Guard facility in Reno, Nevada. The instructions weren’t clear, so I assembled the first unit with the customer and left the rest for their team. That trip made the company notice me.”

Growing and stepping into leadership

That reputation for reliability and problem-solving soon led to bigger responsibilities.

“After that trip, Nancy Hopkins, our Customer Service Manager, wrote me a letter of recommendation. A little later, I was offered the chance to supervise the laminating department in 1998. From there, I moved on to lead pack-out, assembly, and powder coating.”

When IAC relocated to Arizona in 2018, Navor was promoted to Production Manager, a role he continues in today. Along the way, the company invested in his growth with leadership courses, forklift trainer certification, and motivational training.

“Working with John Notti (Director of Operations) has been a great learning experience. He’s a good teacher, and I’ve learned so much from him. I believe everyone has something to teach you — you just have to listen and absorb what works for you.”

Guided by hard work and good teachers

The values that shaped Navor’s career began at home.

“The hard work and ethics I learned from my father are the foundation for my success at Treston.”

Throughout his career, he has had many mentors, whom he prefers to call his “teachers”: Vicente Hernandez, who showed him the art of packing and assembly; Nancy Hopkins, Stephanie, and Susan Saros, who influenced his quality inspection work; and John Notti, who guided him as a leader.

“All the positions I’ve held had challenges, but the biggest is learning how to work with different personalities. Communication is the key.”

Communication at the heart of success

After decades with the company, one thing stands out most clearly to Navor: the culture of open communication.

“Treston puts a lot of emphasis on communication, and I think that’s the key to business success. We’ve built a strong team, and as we continue to connect more, we’ll only get better.”

Pride in every finished product

For Navor, the most rewarding part of the job is seeing work come full circle.

“Building things and seeing the final product — that’s what I enjoy most. Nothing is more satisfying than a happy customer who comes back and orders again.”

Problem-solving and teamwork are part of what makes the role fulfilling too.

“I enjoy working with others, resolving issues, and seeing a job finished and shipped out the door.”

Life outside of work

Away from the factory, Navor finds energy and balance in the outdoors.

“I love mountain biking and hiking. Outdoor activities keep me in shape, help me relax, and reduce stress.”

A career built on appreciation and loyalty

After more than three decades, Navor reflects on what has kept him at Treston for so long.

“I’ve always felt appreciated, and I’m a loyal creature.”

Over the years, he has not only led teams but also focused on learning from the people around him.

I think we can all learn from others — everybody has something to teach you. You just need to be a good listener and absorb as much as you can, then keep what works for you.

His journey is proof that with hard work, dedication, and support, a career can grow from the factory floor to leading operations — and still bring pride and satisfaction every day.