What drew you to this opportunity, and what excites you most about joining our team?
As part of my career goals, I wanted to move from a production management position to a production support position.
Can you share a little about your background and experience in purchasing and inventory control? How do you see it helping EZ-CRETE grow?
My experience has been production management, so I understand the importance of cost control and ensuring materials are available to support production. My past experience in lean manufacturing gives me a personal perspective and understanding from many different experiences.
What’s one strategy or process improvement you’re excited to implement to help us stay ahead of the competition?
Implementation of a KanBan system to help support cashflow, and also keep the required products available to support our production goals.
What’s something people might not realize about managing inventory in a fast-moving manufacturing environment like ours?
There are no unimportant parts. Many companies keep an eye on the more costly items, but without basic supplies, production can be brought to a halt quickly.
If you could describe your approach to purchasing and inventory management in three words, what would they be and why?
Lean, easy and accurate. Lean to control cost and cashflow, easy helps to make production less difficult, and accurate to ensure we have what we need, when we need it.
We know supply chain challenges can keep you on your toes. What’s the most creative problem you’ve solved in your career so far?
Years ago, I managed a production line that was very dependent on precision parts having to match size (down to .0002 inch). The process was lengthily, but we had to ship weekly. So I had semi-finished parts staged so they were ready to match-grind on demand each week. This kept product flowing, but also ensured we kept inventory at manageable levels.
Let’s get to know you outside of work—any favorite hobbies, sports, or hidden talents?
I enjoy woodworking, watch building, home automation and summers on the deck smoking ribs 🙂
What’s one tool, gadget, or piece of tech you can’t live without in your role?
My smartphone. Quick calculations, snapping photos of items or info I will need later is invaluable.
If EZ-CRETE were a sports team, what position would you play to help us win the game?
The water boy!
What excites you most about EZ-CRETE’s mission and products?
The amazing personal relationship everyone has here, plus the exciting products we produce! Inovative building products (like EZ-PIER and EZ-TUBE) but also cutting edge products like EV charger components, solar power generation support and also custom products. This is not your run-of-the-mill precast products!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received that guides your work today?
Treat everyone with respect, and just like there are no unimportant parts that go into products, there are also no unimportant roles that go into production. Everyone is part of the team. Everyone has value. Without everyone working as a team, our products would not be the high quality products our customers demand.
