GEODIS Partners with AHS to Implement Exotec Robotic Solution to optimize e-Commerce Fulfillment
GEODIS, a global transport and logistics provider, and Advanced Handling Systems (AHS, LLC), a full-service provider of integrated fulfillment and distribution solutions, has announced a new partnership to implement the Exotec Skypod System into GEODIS’ eLogistics site in Nashville, Tenn. The cutting-edge robotic system will allow GEODIS to optimize the e-Commerce fulfillment process on behalf of its emerging direct-to-consumer customers. GEODIS recently announced the expansion of its eLogistics service in the U.S. to provide best-in-class e-Commerce fulfillment solutions for startups and growing e-Commerce retailers from four new strategic GEODIS eLogistics locations. GEODIS will partner with AHS to integrate the Exotec Skypod System into GEODIS’ state-of-the-art automated eLogistics facility that will go live in Nashville, Tenn., in Q1 of 2022. An agile and high-performing automated goods-to-person solution for the retail and e-Commerce industries, the Exotec Skypod System is the first of its kind to use mobile robots that can move in three dimensions and reach heights of 36 feet to enable efficient, high-density inventory storage. “eLogistics is an important strategic initiative for our company, and collaborating with our long-term partners at AHS in new technology with Exotec will be winning formula for our exciting new product,” said Eric Douglas, Executive Vice President of Technology and Engineering at GEODIS in Americas. “By implementing the Exotec Skypod System into our GEODIS eLogistics site, we can enable an even faster shipping experience for our customers as e-Commerce continues to drive demand.” Exotec has revolutionized the fulfillment industry in Europe and Japan and continues to grow its presence in the U.S. market with customers like Gap Inc., Ariat International, and Comoto Holdings recently adopting the Skypod system. The Exotec Skypod uses laser scanner navigation and robust software to increase warehouse throughput by up to five times with a two-minute response time for all SKUs. The system is designed to improve working conditions and foster more sustainable warehouse productivity by reducing highly repetitive, physically intensive tasks like walking, lifting, and bending. “The hockey-stick growth of e-Commerce coupled with the growing importance of supply chain resilience continues to be a massive tailwind for scalable robotics solutions like Exotec,” said Romain Moulin, CEO of Exotec. “We are delighted to join forces with AHS and GEODIS to better serve the rapidly evolving needs of the North American market.” “AHS has been working with GEODIS for several years and has formed a strategic partnership to provide ground-breaking solutions to assist the company with best-in-class offerings,” said Chuck Frank, President of AHS. “The AHS team is committed to being on the cutting edge of technology and expanding its market share by investing in the training, deployment, and post-go-live support of trending technologies. Exotec is a great strategic partner of AHS, and we are excited about yet another successful installation of an Exotec solution. AHS is thrilled to be a part of GEODIS’ eLogistics service, and we congratulate their team on their commitment to pushing technology to new levels.” The leading integrator of the Exotec solution in North America, AHS will complete the installation of the system into GEODIS’ eLogistics facility with guidance from Exotec’s execution team. AHS and GEODIS collaborated on the design of the construction build for the GEODIS eLogistics site so it can be easily expanded, with plans to double its initial size in the future. “As we continue to see a significant increase in direct-to-consumer e-Commerce brands today, GEODIS remains dedicated to providing cutting-edge technology solutions that will best meet our customers’ unique needs when it comes to enabling fast and flexible operations,” said Drew Bailey, Senior Director of Design Engineering at GEODIS in Americas. “The integration of the Exotec Skypod System will allow us to further optimize our e-Commerce fulfillment process on behalf of our customer’s thanks to its efficient, scalable, and responsive goods-to-person technology.”
Camso wins prestigious Presidents Award from Toyota Industries Corporation
Camso Japan has announced it has received the President’s Award from Toyota Industries Corporation in recognition of its excellence as a supplier Presented to the top company among the Supplier Award recipients in each division, this prestigious President’s Award follows a recent Supplier Award from Toyota L&F Company, the materials handling equipment division of Toyota Industries, and it highlights the positive contribution Camso is making to its partner’s business. As a valued partner of Toyota Material Handling Company, Camso was recognized for its outstanding performance and the very high standards of its materials handling tires and assembly supply. Speaking about the award, Mr. Tsunehiko Sano, president of Camso Japan, said: “We are very proud to receive this prestigious award. This Toyota President’s Award is a testimony of our commitment to our clients and their business. Over the years, we have shown our industrious nature and developed a reputable and trustworthy partnership with Toyota. Our team works relentlessly to achieve these high levels of performance, and we always go the extra mile in the products and services we deliver.”
PowerPro Equipment is new Merlo dealer
PowerPro Equipment, located in New Holland, PA has added Merlo telehandlers to its lineup of equipment. Established in 1969, PowerPro Equipment has curated a reputation for offering a broad selection of high-quality, light, and heavy equipment for sale and rent to homeowners, lawn care professionals, and construction companies. PowerPro’s seven locations serve PA and NJ with direct sales, rentals, and service. “After a number of in-depth conversations with Dwight Hurst and his team, PowerPro chose to grow their market share by teaming up with Merlo and offering the full line of Merlo telehandlers.” Austin Bailey AMS-Merlo Sales Manager said. “PowerPro is uniquely positioned to serve both agriculture and construction markets.” “We wanted to partner with a manufacturer that holds a dealer in high regard and will help build a brand within a market,” said PowerPro president Dwight Hurst. “Merlo gives us that opportunity to tap into a market that we have not been into previously. The heart of Lancaster is farming and Merlo telehandlers, such as the Multifarmer and Turbofarmer, give farmers a multi-use product.” The Merlo lineup at PowerPro includes Rotos, with their 360° rotating turret with lift heights up to 115’. Plus the full line of telehandlers with lift heights up to 59’ and various weight capacities up to 26,500 lbs. “The full line of Telehandlers,” Hurst said, “especially the Merlo Roto, is an asset our Rental programs are already taking advantage of as demand for this type of machinery gains traction in our market.” To see the available lineup of Merlo telehandlers, and find a PowerPro location visit https://www.powerproequipment.com/ Merlo telehandlers and Rotos are imported and distributed by Applied Machinery Sales. Located in Rock Hill, SC, AMS offers sales, service, rentals, financing, and dealer programs.
Automation and Warehouse Logistics Industry leader David Campbell joins Burns & McDonnell
With two decades of engineering, project management, and automation experience, David Campbell joins Burns & McDonnell to lead design and construction solutions for distribution and warehouse facilities throughout the U.S. Campbell will manage projects for a wide range of clients across multiple industries. “The need for increased levels of automation within distribution centers and warehouse facilities is steeply rising to meet consumer demands, keep workers safe and save money,” says Craig Casey, vice president, and manufacturing director at Burns & McDonnell. “David’s deep understanding of facility operations, automation technology, and intelligent warehouse logistics and materials handling bolsters our experienced team’s ability to deliver holistic solutions for our clients nationwide.” Most recently, Campbell led teams of professionals executing hundreds of large-scale materials handling projects for more than 60 clients in 14 different markets. He has extensive experience successfully designing and implementing automation technologies in manufacturing and distribution facilities, as well as directing and managing manufacturing plant operations. “The combination of evolving consumer demands, supply chain bottlenecks, and labor shortages has significantly increased the need for robotics and automation throughout the past decade,” Campbell says. “I’m excited to be a part of a truly integrated team of designers and builders developing solutions for complex, multi-temp, e-commerce facilities, helping manufacturers prevent disruptions and deliver high-quality products to consumers efficiently.” Burns & McDonnell ranks No. 6 among the Top 100 Design Firms in the U.S., No. 6 in Manufacturing and No. 2 in Food and Beverage, according to Engineering News-Record.
TA Services honored as Bronze Stevie Award winner in 2021 for great employers
TA Services, a premier full-service logistics provider, has been named the winner of a Bronze Stevie® Award in the Transportation Employer of the Year category in the sixth annual Stevie Awards for Great Employers. TA Services credits their accomplishment to a “people first” approach, resulting in world-class 3PL services and extraordinary customer support. The Stevie Awards for Great Employers recognize the world’s best employers and the human resources professionals, teams, achievements, and HR-related products and suppliers who help to create and drive great places to work. More than 950 nominations from organizations of all sizes in 29 nations were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of HR-related categories. “At TA Services, putting our employees first is rewarding. It helps our customers see great results and our carrier partners feel secure,” said Scott Schell, president and CEO, TA Services. “Our team couldn’t provide the outstanding 3PL support to our customers without the dedication and passion of our employees. We have hired over 270 new team members since 2020 and want to make sure every employee feels valued, prioritized, and listened to.” As a way to ensure employee satisfaction, TA Services routinely conducts internal surveys to gather feedback and adjust operations accordingly. Winners of the awards named the Stevie’s from the Greek word meaning “crowned,” will be recognized during a virtual awards ceremony on November 17. Registration for the ceremony is now open. “In the sixth edition of the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the judges were impressed by all of the nominees, who – during the crises we’ve confronted this year and last – continue to dedicate each day to making the lives of their employees and teams better through training, software, work-from-home plans, and more. We look forward to celebrating the Stevie winners’ achievements during our November 17 virtual awards ceremony,” said Maggie Gallagher, president of the Stevie Awards. More than 70 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year’s Stevie Award winners. Details about the Stevie Awards for Great Employers and the list of 2021 Stevie winners are available at www.StevieAwards.com/HR.
Nano One appoints Gordon Kukec Independent Director
Nano One® Materials Corp., a clean technology company with patented processes for the low-cost, low-environmental footprint production of high-performance cathode materials used in lithium-ion batteries, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Gordon Kukec as an Independent Director to the Board effective immediately. Mr. Kukec has 30 years of experience spanning a range of senior executive leadership roles responsible for innovating and adapting corporate, commercial, and IT strategies at various international Canadian corporations. Focused on how emerging environmental and information technology developments, such as climate change and cybersecurity, impact business transformation, corporate strategy, and board governance, Mr. Kukec brings a distinct and valuable skillset to the companies he works with. Gord Kukec, noted “I am excited to be joining the Nano One Board at such a significant stage in the development of the Company. The rapid electrification of transportation and other sectors is critical to mitigating climate change. Nano One is a key player in accelerating battery technology adoption. I look forward to supporting the Company’s ambitious development and operational plans to drive long-term meaningful stakeholder value.” Paul Matysek, Executive Chair, commented, “We are pleased to have Gord joining us on the Board where his insights and experience will support the continued advancement of Nano One’s development strategy. He will add numerous and significant strengths to Nano One’s team and the addition of Mr. Kukec’s sustainability, governance, and cybersecurity expertise is an asset that will continue to advance Nano One’s operating objectives and goals.” Mr. Kukec holds a BA, Economics from the University of Calgary, an MBA from Queen’s University, the Institute of Corporate Directors Director designation (ICD.D), the Sustainable Energy Management (SEMAC) designation from BCIT, and certifications in Cybersecurity and Governance of Enterprise Information Technology (CGEIT) from ISACA, and currently sits on the boards of Intelligent City, BC Ferry Services Inc., and Solshare Energy Corp. The appointment of Mr. Kukec to the Nano One Board is part of a staged effort to expand the skillset, expertise, and independence of the Board which will provide long-term benefits to the Company and Nano One stakeholders as we consider future development and growth.
Wildeck, Inc. welcomes Angela Wurtz as Director of People Operations
Wildeck, Inc. is pleased to announce and welcome Angela Wurtz as its new Director of People Operations. Angela will be responsible for all aspects of managing the People Operations function at Wildeck, including recruiting, training and development, engagement, employee relations, compensation, and payroll. Angela brings nearly 15 years of experience related to various HR functions, including recruiting, onboarding of new employees, human resource information systems, employee relations, and leadership. “Angela’s extensive leadership and expertise in HR functions with reputable organizations made her the clear choice to lead our People Operations department.” Commented Dan Lorenz, president of Wildeck, Inc. “I am confident that Angela’s background will bring in a new perspective that will reshape our organization to be competitive in today’s workforce and retain top talent. I look forward to her contributions as we continue to grow to unprecedented levels.” Angela earned a B.S. Degree in Business Management, Concentration in Human Resource Development from Herzing University, and is certified as a Professional in Human Resources by the Human Resources Certification Institute.
HNTB promotes Chris Lester to Office Leader in Arlington, VA
Seasoned transportation professional will provide critical leadership across DC, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia region Chris Lester, PE, an industry veteran with nearly 30 years of public and private sector experience, has been promoted to office leader for HNTB Corporation’s Arlington, VA office. Chris most recently served as deputy office leader overseeing more than 250 professionals and the expansion from two offices to six offices in the Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia (DMVW) geographies. Prior to that, Chris served in various leadership roles supporting and leading key growth initiatives including serving as the transportation department manager, transportation group director, office sales manager, and client service team leader. “Chris is a focused, people-centered leader who has built trusted relationships with key clients, industry professionals, and his fellow colleagues,” said Michelle Dippel, president of HNTB’s Mid-Atlantic Division. “His client-focused approach, track record of success in the DMVW, and passion for staff development will enable HNTB to continue to assist clients in the region with their most impactful projects.” Lester has served as Transportation Committee Chair for ACEC Metropolitan Washington and is actively involved in the Virginia Transportation Construction Alliance (VTCA). He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from Purdue University. HNTB works on some of the most significant projects in the region, including the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge/South Capitol Corridor project in Washington D.C, I-95 Express Lanes projects, MTA Purple Line in Maryland, and General Engineering Consultant for the Department of Highways and West Virginia Turnpike Authority in West Virginia.
Jake Kercheval joins Thombert
Thombert, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of polyurethane wheels and tires for narrow aisle electric lift trucks, has recently expanded its sales staff by adding Jake Kercheval as OEM Account Manager. Jake will be responsible for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) accounts in the material handling industry. He comes to Thombert with a strong background in sales and marketing. He is a graduate of Simpson College and was formerly the Director of Sales & Marketing for the Iowa Hospital Association. Jake resides in Altoona, Iowa, with his wife Shannon, son Boone, and his lab Gunther. Thombert is pleased to have Jake on their team and he looks forward to his role at Thombert and to meet everyone.
Martin Industries welcomes Chip Todd
Martins Industries is proud to announce that Chip Todd has joined their Sales Team as Account Manager, specializing in commercial and fleet business in the U.S. Chip spent most of his career in Sales and Business Development, with more than 35 years in the Automotive/Fleet/Commercial business. He has extensive experience in the automotive aftermarket, wheel maintenance on commercial fleets as well as in the boat building market. Not to mention, Chip developed National Corporate Tool Programs for technicians in the commercial fleet field. “Chip’s experience and knowledge of the market will be a good asset for our company,” says Yannick Lejour, Martins Industries’ Sales Director.
AutoScheduler.AI adds experienced CTO to bring software development efforts to the next level
AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, announces the addition of Andrew Gibson as Chief Technology Officer to lead the company’s software development efforts to the next level. Andrew is a supply chain industry expert, formerly with Nestle, and has deep expertise in mathematics, which is the cornerstone of artificial intelligence. AutoScheduler.AI smooths operations in a warehouse by integrating seamlessly with warehouse management systems, orchestrating activities across supply chain campuses, and adding value by improving OTIF, managing inventory, and creating dynamic schedules that change as conditions shift. “We realized that at the current rate of market adoption, AutoScheduler.AI needed to bring in a leader who could help us expand our platform more quickly,” said Keith Moore, Chief Product Officer at AutoScheduler.AI. “We needed somebody with deep domain expertise as well as exposure to modern machine learning and software development practices, and Andrew fits that description very well. We’re thrilled to have him.” “AutoScheduler.AI uses advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and digital twins to transform distribution centers and warehouses with new levels of efficiency and execution,” said Andrew Gibson, CTO of AutoScheduler.AI. “I look forward to accelerating the development of this sophisticated technology to achieve the next phase of growth for the company.” Dr. Andrew Gibson spent 25 years with Nestle as an operational leader in warehousing and transportation and as a data-science leader focused on driving improvements in the supply chain, warehousing, transportation, and sales. As a consultant, he has worked with CPGs, retailers, and software companies to develop smarter, data-science-supported tools to generate clearer insights and enable better decisions across the enterprise. He has taught data science, data visualization, and supply chain analytics in an academic setting and for executive education. He graduated from the University of Manchester with a BSc in Mathematics and Management Science. He received an MBA from the London Business School at the University of London. He received a Doctor of Philosophy – Ph.D., Industrial Engineering, at the University of Arkansas.
Battery Watering Technologies promotes Elliott as Business Development Manager
Battery Water Technologies has announced that Jack Elliott has been promoted to the position of Business Development Manager. As a 2020 graduate of High Point University, Jack began his career as a Regional Account Manager and has been instrumental in BWT’s overall growth this past year. Jack will be transitioning his duties to business development for our parent company, FourShare, LLC. “Jack will continue to be involved with Battery Watering Technologies as he assists with the development and implementation of new products and services. said Rob Soares, president of FourShare LLC. “He will continue to manage select accounts and serve as a member of our Brand Advancement Team,” Soares added. FourShare, LLC. is a manufacturer serving the material handling, aerospace, automotive, and technology sectors.
Women In Trucking Association announces its September 2021 Member of the Month
The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has announced Melissa Bencivengo as its September 2021 Member of the Month. She is a professional driver for Carbon Express. Melissa’s love for trucking began at six years old. She was introduced to trucking by her uncle, who drove a big sleeper truck. When he would stop by the house to visit family, he would always take Melissa out to his truck. Uncle Rebel and his truck won her heart and set her life path. Melissa was so small she had to stand up on the seat to pull the air horn. Growing up, she was consistently told trucking and heavy machines are not a job for women. Those comments only made her more determined to pursue her dream. Melissa’s enthusiasm is front and center when she talks about her trucking career. Her career began in 1999 with driving dump trucks and operating big equipment including well rigs and pile drivers. Ultimately, Melissa earned a CDL Class A license and joined Carbon Express in 2019. Melissa is more than a truck driver, she holds many labels; wife, Mom to six children, a certified nurse’s aide in the State of NJ and a tree arborist. Melissa is a driven, talented and knowledgeable woman who loves her family and driving her truck. One of the few women in the trucking industry driving liquid bulk trucks, Melissa says, “Control the tanker, don’t fear it. Driving a liquid tanker is like driving with a dance partner, only you have to be the dance lead and control the movement of the product in the tank.” Customers often comment that they are surprised to see a woman get out of the truck. Melissa loves Carbon Express; she has found her forever work home. Carbon is well suited for women drivers. They only have day cab trucks, so overnight drivers stay in hotels and not sleepers. Carbon Express does this to give their drivers respect and a better quality of rest, making them safer drivers. This summer Melissa’s time on the road has afforded her to take the family on a free vacation with rewards points earned from those overnight stays. Melissa knows she is unique being a female in the male-dominated liquid bulk business, but that has never discouraged her. At Carbon Express she is part of a team and is respected by her male counterparts. She is quick to point out how the other male drivers have gone out of their way to support, encourage and provide her the information to make her successful. She knows she can ask questions about directions, equipment, and even which are the best hotels to stay at. Melissa does her part to help keep Carbon Express the leader it is today in bulk liquid transportation. Carbon is always looking for great female drivers like Melissa in various parts of the country.
Unicarriers Forklift gives back and assembles 600 meals at Vallarta Food Bank in Mexico
On Thursday, August 26th, UniCarriers employees and their network dealers found a way to give back to the community and spent their morning volunteering at Vallarta Food Bank, an organization dedicated to fighting hunger in Puerto Vallarta. The group of volunteers packaged together 600 lunches for those in need. In addition, UniCarriers made a monetary donation to the Vallarta Food Bank to support their community impact. “I’m incredibly proud of our group who came together to give back to the Puerto Vallarta community during our annual dealer incentive trip. We spent the morning volunteering at Vallarta Food Bank to assemble 600 to-go lunches for free community pickups. Vallarta Food Bank has been a critical resource in Puerto Vallarta, providing meals to thousands of families facing hardship. It’s rewarding for me to be part of a company that values community and philanthropy, and will organize volunteer activities like this one to make a difference.” said Mark Manninen, Vice President of Sales and Marketing About Vallarta Food Bank The Vallarta Food Bank is on a mission to create a community where no one goes hungry – providing 600 meals a day, five days a week to those in need. Since April 2020, Vallarta Food Bank has served over 100,000 hot meals and delivered and distributed more than 68,000 despensas (food bags). The organization has also provided disaster relief for flooded villages with food and cleaning supplies, opened a soup kitchen to provide hot food, and expanded their educational resources, community programming, and employment opportunities to those that need it most. Vallarta Food Bank relies on donations and assistance from volunteers across Vallarta and beyond Mexico’s borders to help families.
Darryl Niven is named Vice President and General Manager of Terex Utilities
Terex Corporation announced that Darryl Niven has been appointed Vice President and General Manager of Terex Utilities, effective August 30, 2021. Niven, a business and operations leader with more than three decades of experience leading global heavy manufacturing businesses, will report to John L. Garrison, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO of Terex Corporation, and will be based in Watertown, South Dakota, headquarters for Terex Utilities. “I am pleased to welcome Darryl to the Terex Utilities team,” Garrison said. “He has successfully led and grown leading manufacturing businesses through all parts of the cycle. Starting out with a solid engineering foundation, he has devoted his career to building businesses serving global industrial end markets. Darryl has developed teams that demonstrate continuous improvement, passion, and resilience while building strong relationships with stakeholders and partners.” Niven most recently was Chief Manufacturing Officer, Park-Ohio Holdings Corporation, a diversified industrial manufacturer serving automotive, heavy truck, industrial equipment, rail, and aerospace customers. Previously, Niven was Vice President, Operations for Europe, Asia, and China for BorgWarner Inc., where he led core international divisions of automotive powertrain components. He spent nine years with Eaton Corporation plc, ultimately as Executive Director Operations, Aerospace, Fluid, and Motion Control Systems. Niven began his career with Ford Motor Company, where he advanced through production, business, and engineering roles. Niven earned a Master of Business Administration from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from The Ohio State University. He served on the Board of Directors of United Way in Southwest Michigan and as a volunteer with Make-A-Wish America.
Herc Holdings completes acquisition of Texas-based CBS Rentals
Herc Holdings Inc., a North American equipment rental supplier operating as Herc Rentals Inc., announced that it has completed the acquisition of substantially all the assets of Texas-based CBS Rentals (CBS). CBS is a full-service general equipment rental company comprising approximately 190 employees and 12 locations serving construction and industrial customers throughout Texas, as well as locations in Carlsbad, NM, and Kingsport, TN. The addition of CBS expands Herc Rentals’ presence in Texas — one of the largest equipment rental markets in North America — to 38 physical locations, which collectively provide general and specialty equipment rental solutions and related services. “I am pleased to welcome CBS Rentals to Team Herc,” said Larry Silber, president and chief executive officer. “Our combined teams and resources position Herc Rentals to be a preeminent equipment rental partner across Texas, serving a diverse mix of construction, industrial, and government customers.”
Orbis supports the local community through charitable efforts
The company sponsors inaugural golf outing and community giving reception to benefit the local community ORBIS® Corporation, an international provider in reusable packaging, sponsored the inaugural Good Days for Kids golf outing that raised $191,300 for Children’s Wisconsin, the region’s only independent healthcare system dedicated to the health and well-being of children. In addition to the green fee, participants had the opportunity to donate through a silent auction. The event was held at The Legend at Merrill Hills golf course in Waukesha, Wisconsin, on Monday, Aug. 23, 2021. “ORBIS is proud to support our community and the essential services Children’s Wisconsin provides to keep our kids healthy,” said Bill Ash, ORBIS Corporation president. “We look forward to seeing the positive impact that Children’s Wisconsin will make on families in the community.” The money raised from the Good Days for Kids golf event will help Children’s Wisconsin fund research programs, provide critical care, and support community initiatives. Thanks to the support of companies like ORBIS, we are able to provide critical care and wraparound services to children and families in need,” said Dr. Tara Petersen, Attending Physician, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine and the Medical Director for the Dairy Cares of Wisconsin Simulation Laboratory at Children’s Wisconsin. “We are so grateful to have a strong partner like ORBIS, who cares about our mission at the local level.” ORBIS also recently recognized 40 local non-profit organizations with charitable donations at its annual community giving reception. More than 80 people gathered to accept donations on behalf of organizations, including NAMI, Wisconsin Hero Outdoors, Oconomowoc Food Pantry, Blessings in a Backpack Waukesha County, and more. With funding made available through the Menasha Corporation Foundation, the charitable arm of ORBIS’ parent company, each ORBIS facility has a Community Action Team that hosts fundraisers and provides volunteers in the local area The team at ORBIS’ headquarters in Oconomowoc supports organizations across southeastern Wisconsin and coordinated this giving reception. “It’s important for ORBIS to support and bring awareness to the local organizations that are making an impact in our communities,” said Andrea Schwartzmiller, Community Action Team chairperson. “Seeing the gratitude that stems from our beneficiaries is so rewarding, and I’m proud to lead our team of humbled ORBIS employees in their efforts to give back to the community.”
East Penn receives 2021 America’s Best Employers for Women recognition by Forbes and Statista
East Penn is proud to announce that the company ranks as one of America’s Best Employers for Women 2021 by Forbes and Statista. This is East Penn’s first year being recognized with this honor. Previously, the company has been recognized as one of America’s Best Large Employers three times, most recently in 2021. East Penn was also ranked as one of Pennsylvania’s Best-In-State Employers for 2020. The Best Employers for Women 2021 list was compiled by an independent survey of 50,000 Americans, including 30,000 women, working for businesses with at least 1,000 employees. Prior to the award, there was no submission process and companies were not made aware of the survey. Representation at the executive and board levels were taken into account, as were initiatives to improve gender equity and recent or unresolved allegations regarding discrimination or misconduct. Women surveyed were asked to also rate their own employers regarding parental leave, family support, flexibility, discrimination, representation & career, and pay equity. “As part of our culture of respect and inclusion at East Penn, we treat advancing women in the organization as a business priority because we know diversity at all levels results in improved problem solving, better customer relations, and better financial performance,” said Christy Weeber, East Penn CFO. The company gives credit for this award to the incredible people of East Penn. “East Penn has a long legacy of extraordinary women who have helped establish our foundation, shape our culture, and spur us on to tremendous growth,” said Donna Snyder, East Penn VP Marketing and Advertising. “That’s why we are passionate about empowering all of our people in the workplace to a future that will continue to grow our company in a way that benefits the employees, their communities, and the customers that we serve.” East Penn was awarded along with 300 other large American companies, which have more than 1,000 employees. To see the ranking, go to Forbes Best Employers for Women List: https://www.forbes.com/best-employers-women/#6334513f7de9
ePicker appoints Alan Dotts as new Sales Manager
ePicker, an elite material handling equipment provider, has appointed a strategic new addition to its management team to support its recent launch of stackers, pallet jacks, access vehicles and lithium-ion powered forklifts. Alan Dotts has been named as the new Sales Manager responsible for sales and dealer development. “I am excited to have Alan join the ePicker team as we begin to grow and expand our operations,” said Jason Bratton, General Manager of ePicker. “His extensive experience in the material handling industry will provide exponential value to both ePicker and its dealers nationally.” Prior to joining ePicker, Dotts served as the Sales Manager of Special Products for Toyota Material Handling. At Toyota Material Handling, he led the development and sales of AGVs, Heavy Duty Trucks, and Aichi aerial platforms. Dotts has more than 20 years of experience working with equipment dealers developing successful sales plans and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Concordia College. “I am excited about this opportunity to join the ePicker team,” said Dotts. “I look forward to bringing my experience and skills in product development and sales management to these great products.” ePicker provides its material handling equipment through a national distribution network
KION North America expands territory with Partner Lift Parts Service L.L.C. location
KION North America is pleased to announce that Lift Parts Service, L.L.C., part of the KION North America dealer network, has added an additional location to better serve its customers in Garden City, Kansas. Lift Parts Service, L.L.C is authorized to sell both the Linde Material Handling and Baoli brands at all its sites. “KION North America is honored to partner with dealers who are committed to selling and supporting our brands,” said Rick Schiel, director of dealer development. “We are proud of our partnership with Lift Parts Service, L.L.C. and are pleased they are expanding their coverage area to better serve the Linde Material Handling and Baoli brands for customers in the western Kansas marketplace.” Founded in 1962, Lift Parts Service, L.L.C. is the oldest lift truck company in Wichita, Kansas. This long history of support to the Wichita area has earned Lift Parts Service, L.L.C. a reputation as a trusted solutions provider for the area’s material handling needs. Both locations in Wichita and Garden City specialize in new and used forklift trucks as well as forklift parts, sales, rentals, and service. “We are excited to be able to expand within our existing territory,” said Kyle Free, chief operating officer, Lift Parts Service L.L.C. “Our team in Garden City have worked very hard to ensure the same level of care customers have come to expect with Lift Parts is duplicated in our western Kansas location.”