July Employee Spotlight - Earl Collins, Warehouse Specialist
If you've ever been to our Naperville Production Facility, then chances are you've met Earl Collins. Earl is our July Employee Spotlight and one of PHOENIX's longest tenured Phamily members. Our production facility would not run the same without him. Here's what he had to say about his time as a Warehouse Specialist in Naperville, Illinois:
PHX: When did you first get started at PHOENIX? Why did you decide to take the job?
EC: I started with PHOENIX in 1994 so I have been here for 28 years. I took the job because I was seeking employment and saw PHOENIX was close to home, only about 25 minutes away. One of the reasons I chose PHOENIX was because of its history and because it is a family-owned company. I thought it was awesome that at that time, it was a 5th generation owned company (now 6th generation). Since day one, everyone at PHOENIX has always been so welcoming and helpful, we really do have a great team here.
PHX: What is the coolest (or strangest) thing you have encountered while doing your job as a Warehouse Specialist in Naperville?
EC: One of the coolest things is getting to meet all the drivers and having good conversations with them. Also, the making of our products - it is very rewarding to see how the caps are made. I would have never imagined all that goes into making a mayonnaise or peanut butter cap.
Strangest thing I've encountered is probably figuring out how to get forklifts out of tough spots. Being able to help guide the drivers on how to maneuver their way out is one of the things I find rewarding in my role. I'm grateful to PHOENIX for providing the proper training to be able to help in these situations.
PHX: What is one thing you wish more people understood about working in shipping and receiving?
EC: Shipping and receiving is way more than just loading and unloading trucks. There is a lot more that goes into the job: preparing orders for shipments, preparing shipping paperwork, calling carriers to schedule shipments, entering customer information into portals as needed, filing claims for incoming/outgoing shipments, managing inventory, ensuring that shipments are received, stored properly and labeled correctly.
PHX: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
EC: I enjoy spending time with my wife, 5 children, and 6 grandchildren. We like to gather on Sundays for a nice Sunday dinner. I also enjoy watching football and playing with my grandkids.
PHX: What’s your favorite product that has a PHOENIX cap?
EC: Planters Peanuts is one of my favorite products that carries our cap. They are a staple in my home when watching football on Sundays with my family - they pair well with a nice cold beverage. We also love to share peanuts with our family around the holidays; my wife puts them out for everyone to enjoy.