Forty years ago, Martha Miller realized she wasn’t cut out for factory work.

Then a friend mentioned an opening at the circuit clerk’s office.

“I came in and interviewed,” Miller said. “I got the job and I’ve been here ever since.”

Now Miller has the top job, after being appointed circuit clerk Thursday by Clark Circuit Judge Jean Chenault Logue. Miller has been the chief deputy clerk since 2013.

“She brings dedication, professionalism and 40 years of experience to the office,” Logue said in a statement. “Martha will carry on our tradition of service-minded circuit clerks and I look forward to working with her.”

Miller’s appointment came following Paula Joslin’s retirement, which took effect Wednesday. Likewise, Joslin worked in the clerk’s office for 40 years but decided to retire following the arrival of her grandchild.

Miller said she didn’t think Joslin would retire before she did but is grateful for the experience with her and the three previous circuit clerks.

“I’m just here to serve my community as I have for the last 40 years,” Miller said. “I’ve been groomed by the best clerks we’ve ever had. I want to serve the same as they have.”

Miller, who has lived in Winchester since she was 3, started working for former clerk Whitey Walson in 1977.

“I went to school in Louisville,” she said. “I came home that summer and I worked at Rockwell. I learned factory work was not for me.”

After interviewing with Walson, the rest was history. Miller said she done every job in the office except bookkeeping, and she has two on staff for that.

Miller said she plans to run in the fall for the full six-year term. Joslin had already filed for re-election, but will withdraw as a candidate in the coming days.

According to Administrative Office of the Courts officials, Miller passed a test specifically to fill an unexpired term. They are still researching what needs do be done for the general election this fall.