Q: Are you from Wisconsin?
A: I’m from Kaukauna, graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and I’m still here! I’m married and have two kids. We’re here to stay.
Q: What brought you to Midwest Carriers?
A: My career in finance started in manufacturing in Oshkosh. My family is long-time friends with the Van Handels and as they were growing, they gave me the heads up they were adding onto the finance team, and the rest is history!
Q: What is your role on the team?
A: When I joined the finance team, there were three of us. However, they were growing fast. My department has doubled in size over the time I’ve been with Midwest. As such, I’ve held almost every position in the finance department, allowing me to gain unique perspective into the business over the years.
Q: Have you ever driven a truck?
A: No (laughing). I don’t think I could even back up a trailer. I have a lot of respect for the work our drivers do every day, though!
Q: How has Midwest evolved as a company over the time you’ve been here?
A: The Van Handels as owners have always prioritized leveraging the latest technology to increase efficiency and underscore our company culture of safety. Our organization has grown and benefitted from attention to efficiency and always looking for ways to innovate. We have always looked for opportunities to serve our customers better, even diversifying our freight services over the years from exclusively OTR to shuttle services and more!
Q: What is the best thing about working at Midwest?
A: At Midwest, we are valued and cared about as people, almost like extensions of the family. The Van Handels have always considered how every decision is going to affect drivers and other employees, not just the business or the bottom line. As President and second-generation owner, Eric is very committed to staying grounded in the values this company was founded in.
Q: What are you most excited for?
A: The leadership team Eric has brought together and the alignment we’re in as a company and a brand is really exciting. The team is laser-focused on our company culture and our strategic goals and the future is both bright and clear.
Q: What comes to mind first when you think about the Midwest brand?
A: Our tagline – “Driven by the people we serve”- is absolutely true. We’re seriously committed to customer service.
Q: What is your perspective on challenges facing the freight industry?
A: From a financial perspective, the cost of equipment has increased 20% in the last year, as a result of COVID supply chain disruptions.
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your work day?
A: I love seeing my teammates grow in their roles here at Midwest. Because I really grew up through the company, it’s really rewarding to see my teammates growing through those same steps.
Q: Do you have a nugget of advice for someone’s first day on the job?
A: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and find out why. Sometimes there are good reasons that we do things and it’s a learning opportunity if you’re new. Sometimes it’s an opportunity to dig a little deeper!