Erica Nelson
Hytrol Employee Spotlight Q & A
How long have you worked at Hytrol? 2024 will mark my 10-year anniversary at Hytrol.
Summarize what you do at Hytrol. I am the Transportation Specialist for our Logistics Department, I am the “go-to person” when it comes to problem-solving if our transportation coordinators need assistance. I have created over 15 processes and procedures for our department to ensure consistency & safety for our team. I also work with our integrators and our Customer Care Department regarding any freight quotes, freight damage, and cross deliveries. I have cross trained our transportation coordinators to ensure they are knowledgeable across the board, not only for themselves but to help each other and work as a team when one may fall behind.
What was it that drew you to Hytrol? I had no idea what Hytrol was when I started working here. I moved here from a small town in Missouri. A lot of people don’t know that I started as a temporary worker in the paint department unloading finished products and then quickly moved to the paint line to paint parts. I then hired on through the company to work as a crater on 2nd shift in the shipping department. I worked quite a while with the saw–building pallets, boxes, and crating anything from gravity to power conveyors to ProSorts. I then moved into the shipping office to train as a backup shipping clerk to help finalize bill of lading and check-in drivers. I then moved to 1st shift and returned to the saw. I was able to continue working as a backup shipping clerk when needed, and I also trained to be a backup in quick ship when the team fell behind. After a transportation coordinator job opened, I was thankfully given the opportunity to prove myself. Once our coordinator team expanded, I was promoted to my current role as the Transportation Specialist.
What has the experience been like for you here? My experience here at Hytrol has made me grow into a confident woman. I can happily say that 10 years ago I had no idea what the future had in store for me. Hytrol gave me a chance to start my career as a temporary worker. The role I have now demonstrates that Hytrol provides opportunities if you are willing to showcase your worth and speak your aspirations into existence. By putting God first and maintaining a positive outlook on life every day, regardless of how challenging the situation may be, God will guide you.
What would you tell someone about Hytrol if they’ve never heard of it? Hytrol is a family company. No matter what background you have or where you came from, there is a place here for you.
Can you share a meaningful moment where you needed help or had to work hard to overcome a challenge? Building relationships with my co-workers, from the beginning of my career in the paint department to working with the integrators and carriers on the logistics side. Our transportation team has become like family, and I wouldn’t know what I would do without them. We lean on each other through good times and bad.
How has Hytrol helped with your professional development? I’ve gained confidence in myself to strive to do better day by day for my family and for this company. I want to walk out of this door every day and say that ‘I did my best’ and pray that I’ve impacted someone who may have struggled, even if it’s a simple gesture of saying, ‘How are you?’ or ‘You look nice today’ or ‘Did you get a haircut?’ These small gestures can really make a big impact on someone’s life.
Complete this statement: When I think of Hytrol, I think of _______. A great place to feel like you have a second family, to receive a great opportunity, and have the freedom to grow with this company if you are willing to work hard for it!