Employee Spotlight — Kiara Gardner 

We’re proud to spotlight Kiara Gardner, who has been a vital part of the EZ-CRETE family for over five years. Her promotion to Logistics Lead is a well-earned milestone that recognizes not only her operational know-how and reliability, but also her unwavering focus on keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes. Whether coordinating shipments or improving processes, Kiara exemplifies the work ethic and team spirit that define our company culture. Congratulations, Kiara — we’re lucky to have you!

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What excites you most about EZ-CRETE’s mission and products?

When I first started working for EZ-CRETE in 2020 we were really only focused on building materials at that time. Over the span of 5 years we have expanded into different market segments including solar, EV, electrical, etc. It has been incredible watching EZ-CRETE grow over the last 5 years and I cannot wait to see what is in store for the next 5 years!

You started in customer service and are now leading logistics—what's been the biggest surprise in your journey at EZ-CRETE so far?

Honestly, the biggest surprise has been just how much happens behind the scenes to make ‘on-time delivery’ a reality. Coming from customer service, I thought I had a solid handle on the operations—answering calls, tracking shipments, solving problems. But stepping into logistics was like lifting the curtain on a high-stakes juggling act. Now I see how every detail—from mix timing to packaging to trucking schedules—has to snap into place. It’s been humbling and exciting to realize that I’m not just helping customers after the fact, I’m helping shape the experience before they ever pick up the phone.

Which skills from your time in customer service have helped you the most in logistics?

I have learned a lot from both roles but the big takeaway I’d say is communication! Both Logistics and Customer Service require consistent communication with not only the customer but also with our production team to ensure the customer’s order is fulfilled within our 2 week lead time.

Looking back, was there a defining moment when you realized, “Yep, logistics is my thing”?

As EZ-CRETE evolved and expanded, I found myself increasingly drawn to the challenges and strategy behind logistics. It quickly became clear that this is where my passion and strengths align. Stepping into this role full-time feels like a natural next step, and I’m incredibly proud to take on this new leadership opportunity. I’m excited not only about the promotion, but about what’s ahead—continuing to grow with a company I believe in, and helping drive our success even further.

What’s a common misconception people have about logistics?

Logistics is so much more than just moving shipments from point A to point B. It’s the backbone of order fulfillment, inventory management, and operational efficiency. It requires strategic planning, constant coordination, and the ability to adapt quickly—every detail matters. It’s a dynamic, behind-the-scenes engine that keeps everything running smoothly, and I love being in the thick of it.

What’s one product you think more people need to know about?

Our PRO-PADS—hands down. Most people know them as durable propane tank pads, but they’re so much more than that. They can be used also as pavers for walkways, patios, etc!

If you could swap jobs with anyone at EZ-CRETE for a day, who would it be and why?

I would swap positions with someone on the production floor. They’re the backbone of EZ-CRETE and I’d love to see what a day out on the floor feels like! 

What’s the most “you” thing someone would find at your desk or in your car?

I have a couple of penguin plush and office decor around my desk as penguins are my favorite animal! I also have a few things from Spongebob as I tend to quote this show often while at work 🙂

If you had to explain your job using only emojis, what would you use?

🚚👷‍♀️💻

What’s your secret weapon for keeping things running smoothly when the unexpected hits—like a snowstorm or a last-minute shipment change?

Taking a deep breath and stepping back to assess the situation is key when the unexpected hits. In logistics, things can shift fast—and sometimes, just taking a couple of minutes to think things through clearly can lead to a smarter, more efficient solution. Staying calm and level-headed not only helps me make better decisions.

You’ve dealt with a lot of freight, pallets, and pads—what’s your favorite EZ-CRETE product to ship, and why?

It is hard to narrow it down to one product, but I would have to say I love to ship light pole bases because every order for these is different. Sometimes they are on pallets, sometimes they are too big and have to be laid down on the truck. Each truck load is unique!

As Logistics Lead, what’s one thing you’re excited to improve or innovate at EZ-CRETE?

I am excited about a lot of new aspects of my new position. If I had to pick just one, I would have to pick reorganizing our yard to make it as efficient as possible!

What’s one thing you love about the EZ-CRETE team?

One thing I absolutely love about the EZ-CRETE team? It’s like working with a big, slightly concrete-dusty family. We celebrate wins together—big and small—but we also show up for each other in real life. You don’t clock out of caring here. That kind of support lights a fire under you—it makes you want to go the extra mile, not just because it’s your job, but because you know your team would do the same for you.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I am a huge New England Patriots fan!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received that guides your work today?

“Do your best because your best is enough” At the end of the day you can only do your best. 

When you’re off the clock and totally unplugged, what’s your happy place or go-to activity that recharges you?

When I am off the clock I like to spend my time with my friends & family – whether we are camping around New England or hanging out at home! I also recently got a black lab puppy named Tucker who is my world, so I am often out and about with him on the weekends!

My happy place though outside of New England is Florida! Whether I am at Disney World with my cousins or relaxing at the beach with my mom in Clearwater, FL this will forever be one of my happy places!

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