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Jeremiah Ferrill is a Superior resident and a support services specialist for the financial management department of the U.S. Mint, where he’s worked in various roles for 26 years, he said.
The Mint is the nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, according to its website. Together with the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, it creates America’s money, the website says.
Recently, Ferrill received the Rittenhouse Medal for Excellence, Excellence in Service Award.
The Rittenhouse Medal for Excellence, established in 2007, is the “highest honorary award given to Mint employees,” the award letter says.
The medal’s namesake, David Rittenhouse, was an American astronomer and, the letter says, the inaugural director of the U.S. Mint.
Jeremiah Ferrill poses for a portrait Oct. 15. (Matthew Jonas/Staff Photographer)
The Daily Camera talked with Ferrill about his work at the Mint. This Q&A has been lightly edited.
How did you end up working at the Mint?
I joined the Mint somewhat by luck. While working at “Rainbow” Bread in Commerce City, I overheard someone mention that the Denver Mint was hiring. I decided to apply, hoping to build a long-term career. My mechanical skills, developed during my service in the U.S. Navy, helped me qualify for the PM Mechanic position. I started as a permanent on call (POC) employee and, within six months, was made permanent as a PM Mechanic.
What does a day of work at the Mint look like for you?
While my role on paper may seem straightforward, in practice it’s constantly evolving. I’m responsible for all assets within the Mint — including the small but essential items most people wouldn’t think twice about. I oversee the proper processing of excess personal property through the GSA Personal Property Management System (PPMS) and manage several multi-year contracts, such as the parking contract for all Mint employees.
I frequently have to shift directions on the fly, think critically in the moment and solve problems for a wide range of needs. Over the years, I’ve become the go-to person for each department when they’re unsure who to contact or when something simply needs to get done. Additionally, I spent three years serving as vice president of the union, representing employees and strengthening communication between staff and management. Every day brings a new challenge — and that’s what makes my work so engaging.
What do you enjoy about your work?
I enjoy the variety, opportunities for growth and the people I’ve met along the way. Over my 26 years with the Mint, I’ve held five different positions and used the education incentive program to attend college and expand my skills. I definitely get all my steps in each day! I love interacting with people, helping solve problems and being part of a diverse, collaborative team. I take ownership of my work and enjoy seeing projects through from start to finish. Being a problem solver is what drives me — it’s where I find the most fulfillment and pride in what I do.
What would a younger version of yourself think of your job and being awarded the Rittenhouse medal?
My younger self would be amazed. I never imagined I’d earn such a prestigious award, and I’ve never worked for recognition — seeing improved productivity has always been reward enough. About six years ago, I noticed the Mint wasn’t getting full returns from recycling precious metals and obsolete machinery. I encouraged Procurement to ensure all scrap materials were recycled through the Mint, then personally managed the program. Since then, my recycling efforts have generated … returns to the U.S. Mint. By separating die steel from bulk scrap, I also increased recycling value and helped lower the die scrap rate … I take great pride in initiatives like these that make a measurable impact.
What’s something unique about what you do or about the Mint that others might not guess?
Since starting college in 2000, I’ve been creating digital tools — PDF forms, dynamic spreadsheets and Word templates — for nearly every department at the Mint. Long before federal mandate required it, I was helping transition from paper to electronic records. I now serve as the Mint’s subject matter expert for ADA-compliant PDF creation, ensuring accessibility and efficiency in all digital forms.
