Employee Spotlight: Don Wilson, ATR’s Unsung Hero on the Road

At Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR), our drivers play a critical role in ensuring the smooth transport of equipment across our national footprint. Among these unsung heroes is Don Wilson, a Class A CDL Semi Tractor Driver based in Pensacola, who has been with us since May 2023. Don is much more than a driver—he is part of a backbone that forms our logistics operations, and a shining example of dedication, professionalism, and reliability.

A True Professional on the Road

In 2024 alone, Don has spent 91 days on the road, logging an impressive 35,034 miles and transporting 580,698 pounds of equipment to downstream vendors and other ATR sites for processing. His tireless efforts have supported our sites across the nation and helped with major de-installation projects in New York and Massachusetts. Don’s job is not just about driving—he’s tasked with the safe and efficient transportation of equipment critical to our operations, ensuring that everything arrives on time and in perfect condition.

Keric Allen, Pensacola Facility Manager, highlights Don’s unwavering commitment, saying, “Don is courteous, trustworthy, hardworking, and genuinely an all-around great person to work with. No matter how hard or long his work week has been, Don is always ready, with a positive attitude, for the next pickup or challenge at a moment’s notice.” This attitude makes Don a true professional, always ready to rise to the occasion with no complaints, and a willingness to help wherever needed.

When Don isn’t on the road, you’ll find him maintaining his semi-truck, multiple trailers, box trucks, the cargo van, and three other ATR vehicles. This hands-on approach is a testament to his work ethic and attention to detail. Don is always ready for the next pickup or challenge, no matter how long or hard his workweek has been. His positive attitude and proactive nature are what set him apart.

An Impact Beyond Driving

Don’s contributions go beyond his role as a driver. When he’s back at the facility, he actively looks for ways to improve the site. He’s spearheaded several initiatives, including building a rack to store ladders safely, upgrading lighting fixtures to LED, repairing gates, and even trimming bushes and maintaining the parking lot. His willingness to take on these tasks shows his dedication to making ATR a better place for everyone.

As Joe Bickett, our Logistics Supervisor, said, “Don always has an overall positive attitude. He’s always cordial, respectful, professional, and positive.” Dan Hendershott, our Facility Manager in Pontiac, Illinois, adds, “It’s nice to have a Class A driver who’s willing to jump in a box truck, cargo van, or whatever vehicle we have available, and he’s willing to help out in the warehouse when not behind the wheel.”

A Legacy of Excellence

One of the most remarkable things about Don is his spotless driving record—he has never failed a D.O.T. inspection in his 30 years of driving. This accomplishment reflects his commitment to safety and excellence, qualities that are invaluable to ATR. In fact, Don’s meticulous vehicle maintenance helps prevent costly delays for our clients, ensuring that services are always delivered on time.

Don’s contributions also extend beyond his immediate duties. He’s willing to travel outside his coverage area to support other ATR facilities, stepping in whenever needed. This flexibility and dedication to helping wherever he can make him a true asset to our team.

A Veteran with a Unique Story

Before joining ATR, Don served in the U.S. military during the Gulf Wars. While stationed at Misawa Air Base in Japan, he had the unique opportunity to help set up for a concert by the band “America.” The band performed at the base in Japan on October 30, 1992. This concert was part of their tour for U.S. military personnel stationed overseas. In return, the band gave him free tickets to the show—a memory Don still cherishes and one that highlights his diverse life experiences. His military background has instilled in him a strong work ethic, discipline, and a deep sense of pride in his work.

Looking Ahead

Though Don has hinted at retiring in the near future, we know ATR will not be the same without him. We are incredibly fortunate to have him on our team, and while we will miss him when the time comes, we are grateful for the time he’s dedicated to making ATR better every day.

When Don isn’t working, he enjoys working on his RV, traveling, and spending time with his family. His favorite quote is one that perfectly encapsulates his approach to life: “Take pride in who you are and never give up.” And that’s exactly what Don has done throughout his career—he has taken immense pride in his work and has never given up, no matter the challenges he’s faced.

Thank You, Don

ATR’s success is built on the hard work of people like Don Wilson. His contributions as a driver, mechanic, and all-around problem-solver make him a true hero in our organization. We are honored to spotlight Don Wilson and thank him for his unwavering dedication to keeping ATR running smoothly.

Employee Spotlight September 2024 Sarah Griffith

A Pillar of ATR’s Corporate Compliance Team

At ATR, the strength of our company lies in the dedication and expertise of our employees. This month, we are honored to highlight Sarah Griffith, an exemplary member of our team at our Pontiac, IL location. Sarah has been with ATR for 3 ½ years, and during this time, she has become an indispensable asset to our Corporate Compliance team. Her journey reflects not only her adaptability and resilience but also her crucial role in ensuring ATR’s adherence to ever-evolving compliance standards.

A Diverse Background Shaping a Versatile Professional

Before joining ATR, Sarah spent seven years working in an automotive body shop. Her responsibilities ranged from writing estimates and handling finances to performing bodywork and even becoming the main automotive painter. It was here that she first met Ken and Barb, who would later play a pivotal role in her transition to ATR. Her experience in the automotive industry taught her invaluable lessons in precision, attention to detail, and the belief that women can excel in any field—a philosophy that has driven her throughout her career.

In 2021, Sarah transitioned to ATR, initially working on vehicle maintenance tasks. However, it wasn’t long before her potential for greater responsibilities became apparent. Sarah’s work ethic and eagerness to learn led her to the Operations Support Services (OSS) department, where she thrived in a fast-paced environment that demanded quick thinking and problem-solving skills. Her ability to adapt and excel in this role laid the groundwork for her future success at ATR.

The Critical Role of Corporate Compliance

By 2022, Sarah’s career path took a significant turn when she was invited to join Pontiac’s Compliance team as an administrator. This role was not just a new job—it was a challenge that required Sarah to dive deep into the complexities of electronic waste (e-waste) and IT asset management. Compliance at ATR is not merely about following rules; it is about understanding the intricate guidelines that govern our industry and ensuring that every process we undertake meets the highest standards of safety, environmental responsibility, and legal integrity.

ATR’s Corporate Compliance team plays a vital role in our operations, ensuring that we adhere to continuously changing regulations and guidelines. These regulations are not static; they evolve with new laws, industry standards, and technological advancements.

Sarah’s responsibilities are extensive and demanding. She oversees document issuance, updates, and releases, conducts downstream vetting and due diligence collection, and performs data security and sanitization audits. She is also involved in scheduling and preparing for desk audits across all ATR sites, managing IMS monitoring, and aiding in corporate change management and corrective actions. Her role requires constant vigilance and a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape.

Mastering the Art of Compliance

The complexity of Sarah’s work cannot be overstated. She is at the forefront of ensuring that ATR remains compliant with a multitude of regulations that govern e-waste management. This includes understanding and implementing the latest standards from OSHA, R2v3, RIOS, ITAR, and other industry guidelines. Sarah’s ability to research these evolving standards and interpret how they apply to ATR is critical to our ongoing success.

One of Sarah’s supervisors, Stephanie Morris, ATR’s Compliance Manager, praises her for being self-motivated, hardworking, and always willing to tackle new challenges. “Sarah doesn’t just follow instructions—she takes ownership of her projects and ensures they are completed to the highest standard. She’s always cheerful and eager to help, whether it’s training new employees or stepping in to support operations when needed.”

One of Sarah’s most notable contributions came when Pontiac faced a tight deadline to process an inbound load. Despite her already substantial compliance workload, Sarah didn’t hesitate to step in and help, ensuring the site met its deadline. This willingness to go above and beyond is a testament to her commitment to ATR and her colleagues.

Continuous Learning and Professional Growth

Sarah’s journey in compliance has been marked by continuous learning and professional development. Since joining the Corporate Compliance team, she has completed critical training programs, including R2v3 and RIOS Internal Auditor, as well as V2 Data Destruction. These certifications are not just badges of honor; they represent Sarah’s deep understanding of the technical and legal aspects of our operations. Her ability to conduct internal audits and vet downstream vendors has earned her praise from both auditors and colleagues alike.

“Sarah’s contribution to our compliance efforts is invaluable,” Stephanie Morris emphasizes. “Her ability to research and interpret complex regulations ensures that ATR remains at the forefront of compliance in the e-waste industry. It would be difficult for the Corporate Compliance team to replace her.”

Sarah herself is proud of her ability to overcome challenges and expand her knowledge. “I’ve always had a fear of learning something new, but at ATR, I’ve learned to embrace that fear and use it to my advantage. My ability to learn new skills with minimal oversight has been incredibly beneficial throughout my career,” she shares.

A Passion for Compliance and the ATR Mission

What Sarah loves most about working at ATR is the company’s commitment to responsible e-waste recycling. She is passionate about ATR’s role in preserving resources, protecting the environment, and ensuring the health and safety of workers and communities. “ATR isn’t just a service provider; we’re guardians of our environment. We keep hazardous materials out of landfills and protect our people from harm. That’s something I’m incredibly proud to be a part of,” Sarah says.

Life Outside of ATR

When she’s not busy ensuring ATR’s compliance standards are met, Sarah enjoys a full and lively home life. She lives with her partner, Matt, and her two sons, Brayden (14) and Anderson (5), in a house that’s always bustling with activity. From cooking and baking to riding bikes and caring for their assortment of pets—including a pet pig, rabbit, two cats, two dogs, a fish, and 20 snails—Sarah’s home is a vibrant and loving environment. “We stay very busy with our ‘farm,’ and I think the boys, like me, have grown to love taking care of others,” she says.

Sarah’s favorite quote, from the 2022 version of Pinocchio, reflects her outlook on life and work: “You must try your best, and that’s the best anybody can do.” It’s a mantra she shares with her family each morning, setting the tone for a day of success and effort. Crush your day and do your absolute best!

 

Looking to the Future

As Sarah continues to grow in her role at ATR, she remains focused on expanding her knowledge and enhancing her ability to educate others in compliance. Her goal is to become a more effective educator, helping ATR’s admins and managers understand and implement compliance tasks with confidence. “Compliance is always evolving, and I want to keep learning and finding new ways to share that knowledge with others,” Sarah explains.

Sarah Griffith’s journey at ATR is a powerful example of how dedication, adaptability, and a passion for learning can lead to significant achievements. Her role in Corporate Compliance is critical to ATR’s success, and we are proud to have her on our team. Sarah’s ability to research, interpret, and apply complex guidelines ensures that ATR remains a leader in the e-waste recycling industry.

Thank you, Sarah, for your unwavering commitment to excellence and for being a cornerstone of ATR’s compliance efforts!

Matthew Beer: August 2024 Employee Spotlight

A Journey Forward – Matthew Beer’s Inspirational Path

In the world of eCommerce, staying ahead requires innovation, dedication, and a relentless drive to improve. At Advanced Technology Recycling (ATR), we are fortunate to have an individual who embodies these qualities. Matthew Beer, our newly appointed E-Commerce Manager, exemplifies what it means to invest in oneself for the betterment of the team and the organization in this newly formed position.

A Surprising Journey

Matthew joined the ATR family on November 16, 2022, starting as a line tech before stepping into the e-commerce team at ATR Pensacola with no prior experience in online sales. Reflecting on his beginnings, Matthew shares, “When I first joined the e-commerce team at ATR, I wasn’t sure what to expect, as I had no prior experience in online sales. However, I was determined to put my best foot forward.”

Determination quickly turned into motivation for Matthew as he threw himself into researching this vast platform known as eBay.  His objective was to demonstrate his skills by focusing on improving metrics and refining approaches to product sales through competitive research and using newly developed promotion methodologies. “Sometimes, I identified small improvements; other times, I confirmed we were already following best practices. I dedicated more time to this research than I had for some of my college papers,” he recalls. His commitment to excellence didn’t stop at research; it extended to customer service, leveraging years of experience dealing with the public from his Barista days at a local Coffee Shop.

Pioneering Progress

Matthew’s efforts were not limited to his primary duties. He saw the potential to enhance ATR’s eBay platform through better search engine optimization (SEO) and effective keyword usage. His proactive approach led to advocating for changes that significantly improved the platform’s performance. “Recognizing the potential benefits for our eBay platform, I began advocating for changes based on the information I had gathered,” Matthew notes.

His dedication extended to volunteering for various projects, including processing thousands of phones. He ensured meticulous planning and execution, keeping everyone on the same page. He also initiated regular audits of the eBay shelves, ensuring everything was correctly listed and properly organized. These initiatives showcased his proactive approach and commitment to the team’s success.

A Leader in the Making

Matthew’s hard work and innovative mindset did not go unnoticed. Within just four months at ATR, he was promoted to Pensacola’s E-Commerce Team Lead. In this role, he excelled in training and motivating his team, leading to significant growth in Pensacola’s retail sales. His success continued, and in January 2023, he was promoted to PNS Site Supervisor, where he was instrumental in the site’s continued growth and success. During this time, he championed eBay initiatives that earned ATR “top seller” status, opening new doors for the company.

His recent promotion to ATR’s E-Commerce Manager is a testament to his unwavering dedication. In this role, he will oversee all eBay listings and operations for our seven sites, bringing his innovative approach and drive to a larger stage.

Recognition from Leadership

Keric Allen, Matthew’s Pensacola supervisor, speaks highly of him: “Matthew takes great pride in everything he does and has tremendous drive and a strong work ethic. He takes initiative to find solutions to problems and improve processes, even if that means researching new ways to do things during his personal time. Each of Matthew’s promotions into positions of greater responsibility are a direct result of his hard work and dedication to improving not only himself, but ATR as a whole.”

Overcoming Challenges

Matthew’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. One significant hurdle he faced was his fear of public speaking, regardless of the crowd size. Over time, his roles as a Site Supervisor and now as a manager have required him to confront these fears head-on. Through practice and necessity, he has overcome this challenge, showcasing his ability to grow and adapt.

One piece of advice Matthew offers is to find small, personal rituals that help alleviate stress. For him, this means changing out of his steel-toe shoes into regular shoes before driving home, symbolizing the end of the workday and a shift to family time. This simple act helps him leave work stress behind and focus on his family.

Matthew’s personal life is just as dynamic and fulfilling as his professional one. When he’s not working, he enjoys spending time with his four rowdy kids, playing games, or going out to parks and beaches. Balancing work and family is a testament to his dedication and time management.

Looking to the future, Matthew aims to continue his IT education and achieve A+ and Security+ certifications. His favorite quote, “The problem is not the problem; the problem is your attitude about the problem,” which is attributed to Captain Jack Sparrow, a character from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.

A Journey Forward

Matthew Beer’s journey is an inspiring testament to what can be achieved with determination, innovation, and a proactive mindset. His story at ATR is just beginning, and we are excited to see the continued positive impact he will have on our organization and the team.

Congratulations, Matthew, on your well-deserved promotion to E-Commerce Manager. Your journey forward is an inspiration to us all.

 

July 2024 Employee Spotlight

Max Bergstrom –  Mastering Many Skills!

Since joining ATR in April 2023, Max Bergstrom has become an essential part of our Birmingham, Alabama facility. Max wears many hats in his role, managing everything from coordinating logistics shipments and overseeing client deliveries to handling administrative and compliance duties. His days are filled with facility and vehicle inspections, eCommerce order fulfillment, quality assurance checks, and even the occasional fork truck operation. Max also steps in to assist with technical tasks, especially when it comes to preparing large wholesale shipments.

Max’s academic achievements are equally impressive. He earned his master’s degree and placed first in his undergraduate Research and Creative Activity conference, a project that significantly boosted his confidence in research and presentation skills. This foundation has been instrumental in his professional journey at ATR.

Starting his career at ATR was a major step for Max after graduating from college. He has invested a lot of time and effort into understanding the IT Asset Management and Electronic Recycling business. Initially, he found the job to be more complex than he had anticipated, but with hard work and the support of his colleagues, Max has become increasingly proficient in the mechanics of our operations.

A fun fact about Max that might surprise many is that both of his parents are clowns. Despite his calm and composed demeanor, Max has a fun side that reflects his unique family background.

Max is not just focused on his current role; he aspires for the future. He hopes to use the knowledge he has gained about the industry and the environmental impact of electronics to work with an environmental and wildlife conservation organization. His goal is to contribute to efforts that better our environment.

Outside of work, Max is an avid reader who enjoys acquiring new skills and information about the world. He has a passion for studying languages and is currently working on learning Arabic, شكرًا لك يا ماكس على كل ما تفعله.  For those of us not proficient in Arabic the statement says, “thank you Max for all you do”.

When asked to share a piece of advice that has helped him, Max spoke about the dangers of succumbing to fear and the folly of passivity. He believes that fear leads to passivity, which in turn leads to feelings of inadequacy, creating a vicious cycle. Overcoming this cycle, he says, is crucial for personal growth.

Caleb Clark, Max’s supervisor, praises him for being hardworking, adaptable, personable, and having a great attitude. Caleb appreciates Max’s coachability and his willingness to take on more than traditional administrative duties. In a smaller site like Birmingham, versatility is key, and Max exemplifies this by taking on multiple roles and contributing significantly to the facility’s success. Caleb notes, “Max is always willing to help with any task I ask him to help on. He has adapted and succeeded in various positions, particularly excelling as a compliance administrator.”

Max Bergstrom’s journey with ATR showcases his dedication, adaptability, and continuous growth, making him a valuable member of our team.

June 2024 Employee Spotlight

Cristina Rodriguez Shines Bright

This month we revisit our facility in the beautiful city of San Antonio, TX.  When you think of the big state of Texas one name stands out for her exceptional dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence – Cristina Rodriguez, a previous winner back in 2021, has been an integral part of the ATR team since her first day of employment on February 4, 2019. As a Wholesale Specialist, Cristina has not only become an indispensable asset but also a beacon of inspiration for her colleagues.

Cristina’s journey with ATR spans five years, during which she has consistently elevated the standards of performance and professionalism and she’s been very busy since we last featured her in July of 2021.

In her current role, Cristina leads efforts to enhance wholesale asset sales across her assigned sites. Her responsibilities generally include identifying valuable equipment, assisting with product testing, researching and maintaining accurate pricing, and establishing connections with potential buyers. Through her diligence and strategic methodologies, Cristina ensures that every asset finds its rightful place in the market, maximizing customer returns on their valuable IT investments.

Passion for Environmental Empowerment

What drives Cristina’s dedication is her profound belief in ATR’s mission of environmental stewardship and customer value maximization. She finds immense satisfaction in knowing that her efforts contribute to the sustainability of our planet while empowering clients to unlock the full potential of their assets recoverable value.

According to her supervisor, Jesse Jernigan, “Cristina has shown exceptional dedication to ensuring the success of both the organization and the San Antonio warehouse. She has assisted the supervisor, ensuring smooth and successful production at the warehouse and ATR. Her commitment to excellence and meticulous attention to detail have resulted in a flawless record in the wholesale department at San Antonio. Cristina embodies the company’s mission and her dedication to proving “Everything has value until proven otherwise” has encouraged other warehouse associates to find value in items. She consistently assists the processing and asset departments in completing projects without being asked. Her proactive approach to assisting various departments and leading special projects has significantly contributed to the San Antonio warehouse’s ability to manage multiple projects successfully.”

 

From Challenge to Triumph

 

Cristina’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Overcoming the initial hurdles of mastering computer and IT equipment was a significant milestone that she conquered with sheer determination and perseverance, and the accomplishment she is most proud of.  Behind Cristina’s unwavering spirit lies a story of resilience many of us didn’t know. As a breast cancer survivor, she brings a unique perspective to her work, reminding us of all the preciousness of every moment and the importance of facing adversity with courage and optimism.

Every day I wake up I consider this day to be a milestone and one filled with opportunity, said Cristina.

We couldn’t agree more, with an unwavering optimism toward the future, she is determined to propel herself forward in every way, actively seeking out avenues for professional development and growth.

Beyond the Warehouse

Outside of ATR, Cristina finds peace and joy in the company of her loving husband and children. Whether it’s letting the wind blow through her hair while cruising on her motorcycle or exploring the open road in her Slingshot, she cherishes every moment of freedom and adventure with her family.

Cristina’s favorite quote by Charles Darwin – “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the ones most responsive to change” – serves as a guiding principle in both her personal and professional life, inspiring her to embrace change and adaptability with open arms. 

 

Celebrating Accomplishments

In conclusion, Cristina Rodriguez embodies the spirit of excellence, resilience, and dedication that defines ATR. Her journey from overcoming challenges to embracing opportunities is a testament to her remarkable character and unwavering commitment to success. As we celebrate her latest achievements, let us all draw inspiration from Cristina’s shining example and strive to make each day count in our own endeavors.

If you would like to read Cristina’s previous article or take a trip down memory lane to see our other recipients, please visit us www.atrecycle.com

May Employee Spotlight – Gerald Zeller

This month we shine a spotlight on someone who works tirelessly each day to make sure all the rest of us can perform our duties to the best of our abilities.   Gerald Zeller, a dedicated member of our Network Support team located in Pontiac, has been doing just that for an impressive six years! This is no easy task given the complexity of our infrastructure and the growing footprint of our technical grid.

Gerald’s role at ATR revolves around the meticulous monitoring of our network user’s connectivity and data center maintenance.  Additionally, he responds to a wide range of help desk tickets, assists internet providers during outages, and plays an important role when deploying system updates.  Gerald is a busy man and plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless operations within our network infrastructure.

When asked about what he likes most about working at ATR, Gerald emphasizes the dynamic nature of his daily routine. He thrives on the ever-changing challenges and the opportunity to collaborate with a fantastic team, finding fulfillment in the camaraderie shared with his colleagues.  If you’ve had any computer problems, chances are good Gerald is on the other end of that help desk working on a resolution.

Proud Achievements

Gerald takes pride in his continuous skill development throughout his tenure at ATR. His journey reflects his commitment to personal growth, highlighting the significant strides he has made in enhancing his skill set since joining our company.

Like any job, Gerald has encountered his fair share of challenges when attempting to repair and repurpose IT equipment. Whether it’s troubleshooting existing equipment or navigating complex problems that often arise from on-boarding new devices, Gerald approaches each obstacle with a proactive mindset. He leverages resources effectively, from online research to seeking assistance from his knowledgeable team members, Gerald strives to resolve these challenges quickly.

Gerald is always there to help, including but not limited to coming in over the weekend to help keep ATR’s infrastructure up-to-date and running smoothly. Said Kenny Ehresman Director of IT

Surprising Past Experiences

One aspect of Gerald’s background that might surprise his coworkers is his prior role as a machine operator at RR Donnelly where he eventually rose to the position of Supervisor. His international experiences, including travels to Krakow, Poland, and York, England, underscore his adaptability and expertise in setting up equipment and training personnel—an invaluable asset to our team.

Gerald’s primary goal is to leave a lasting impact at ATR by fostering meaningful connections with his colleagues and offering his support whenever needed. His dedication to building friendships and assisting others reflects his commitment to developing a positive legacy within our organization.

Life Outside of Work

When he’s not immersed in his responsibilities at ATR, Gerald enjoys spending quality time with his loved ones, relishing the outdoors during warmer months, and cruising down the river on his boat—an activity that brings him joy and relaxation.

Gerald draws inspiration from Benjamin Franklin’s timeless wisdom: “Tell me, and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me, and I learn.” This quote encapsulates Gerald’s belief in the power of hands-on learning and active participation—a philosophy that resonates deeply with his approach to both work and life.

Gerald Zeller’s journey at ATR is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth. We’re incredibly fortunate to have him as a valued member of our team, and we look forward to witnessing his continued success and contributions to our organization in the years to come.

 

Employee Spotlight February 2024 Rachael Rice

 

A Testament of Dedication and Loyalty

Rachael Rice began the newest chapter of her ATR journey in October of 2021!  Part-time yet full of passion, Rachael’s role involves procurement negotiations on behalf of all seven ATR facilities. More than that, she’s our go-to person when extra help is needed around the office, embodying the very essence of versatility and commitment.

But what truly sets Rachael apart is her unwavering dedication to ATR’s best interests. She’s not just performing tasks; she’s constantly seeking the best solutions and ways to economize, ensuring our facilities are meeting their financial goals and objectives.  Her ability to think critically and act in the company’s best interest is a trait that shines as brightly as her unwavering faith.

“Rachael is a kind and dedicated young woman with a strong sense of faith. Her warm and honest nature is reflected in her professional life, where she consistently works hard to find the best solutions for ATR. Always considering the company’s interests, she skillfully navigates through complex bureaucracy to save costs and improve efficiency, demonstrating her commitment to her role and the company.”  

Barb Ehresman CEO Advanced Technology Recycling

Remarkable Achievements

Rachael’s tenure at ATR is marked by significant accomplishments. She recently secured a substantial credit for a phone line issue at one of our facilities. During the same call, she tactfully renegotiated our phone service contracts, cutting costs by over half annually. Such initiatives reflect her proactive approach to cost-saving and her deep understanding of ATR’s needs.

Embracing ATR’s Values

Rachael greatly appreciates ATR’s commitment to remaining family-owned and operated, a value that resonates deeply with her own beliefs. Her personal commitment to this philosophy is evident in how she approaches her work and interacts with colleagues, Rachael is truly a part of the ATR family.

Overcoming Challenges

We asked her to share a personal challenge she’s had to overcome.  Rachael enjoys the comradery of working closely with her colleges.  She had to adapt to working remotely with the various teams across ATR’s national footprint using telecommunications rather than in person.

“I’m a people person” said Racheal, “I like to build relationships with my colleagues through personal interactions, shaking hands, meeting face to face and collaborating in real time.  I very much enjoy meeting with our associates when they’re in town on business.”

Rachael adapted quickly to utilizing phone calls and online meetings to build relationships and accomplish tasks, but she does prefer face to face interactions. Her aspiration to visit every ATR site and personally meet her teammates reflects her dedication to fostering strong, personal connections.

A Source of Inspiration

Outside work, Rachael is a vibrant individual with a passion for music that she proudly shares with her entire family. Growing up playing drums alongside her brother in church, music remains a significant part of her life. Her musical talent is not just a hobby but a source of joy and inspiration that she shares on a regular basis with her two daughters and

husband who make up the remaining members of the family band.   Rachael’s favorite song is by Deep Purple, which is also the first song she learned how to play on the drums.  The 1972 hit “Smoke on the Water” was written from the band’s eyewitness account of a fire that broke out at a nearby Frank Zappa and Mothers of Invention concert while touring in Switzerland.

Personal Goals and Philosophy

Rachael aspires to continually better herself, seizing every opportunity for personal growth. This philosophy is mirrored in her favorite quote from Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

A quote that is a true testament to her faith and resilience, Rachael can do anything!

 

Life Beyond Work

When away from work, Rachael cherishes time with her husband and two daughters. Whether making music, creating memories, or enjoying the sunshine on the water, she finds joy in the simple pleasures of life. Rachael Rice is more than an employee; she’s part of our ATR family, a testament to the power of dedication, and a shining example of what it means to be part of a family-operated business. Her journey with ATR is a story of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment, inspiring us all to strive for excellence in both our professional and personal lives.

Employee(s)  Spotlight – January 2024

2024 gets off to a Bang with a special Spotlight that showcases our 4 hero’s who postponed their  holiday celebrations to help others in need.

In the bustling halls of ATR’s Salt Lake City facility, as the holiday lights still adorned the office spaces and the scent of festive cheer lingers in the air, four extraordinary associates stood tall, embodying the true essence of teamwork, sacrifice, dedication, and holiday spirit.

As the first manager on the ground for this important initiative, I witnessed the unfolding story of Jaylen Collins, Gregory Robinson, Marshall Royalty, and Richard Rodriguez, the four ATR heroes who chose to forego their holiday celebrations to lend a helping hand to our SLC team. These associates weren’t just colleagues; they were the embodiment of ATR’s core values, turning a potentially stressful situation into a triumph of teamwork and camaraderie.

Let’s shine a spotlight on Jaylen Collins, affectionately known as “J,” who hails from Pensacola, FL. Despite having only seven months at ATR, Jaylen’s impact has been nothing short of phenomenal, marked by an unwavering enthusiasm that radiates through every task.

Jaylen’s zest for his work was evident, even in the face of challenging schedules that involved early mornings and late evenings. Rather than shying away from this demanding commitment, Jaylen embraced it with undeniable gusto. His dedication during this period became a beacon of inspiration for the entire team, setting a standard for excellence and resilience.

A recent forklift licensee and inventory expert, Jaylen’s technical skills became a cornerstone during the crunch time. His tireless efforts in the inventory and de-manufacturing departments were nothing short of invaluable, contributing significantly to the successful navigation of challenges that arose. Jaylen’s ability to seamlessly blend his skills and enthusiasm in high-pressure situations showcased not only his professional acumen but also his unwavering commitment to ATR’s mission.

Beyond the confines of the office, Jaylen’s commitment to personal growth was reflected in his love for working out and reading. This commitment to self-improvement mirrored his professional endeavors, creating a harmonious synergy between personal and career development. In a short span, Jaylen not only adapted to the ATR ethos but also contributed to its vibrancy, embodying the spirit of continuous improvement and dedication.

In recognizing Jaylen’s outstanding contributions, it is impossible to ignore the ripple effect of his positive energy on the entire team. His resilience in the face of challenges and his commitment to going above and beyond expectations have left an indelible mark on the ATR family. As we express our deepest appreciation for Jaylen’s impactful presence, we eagerly anticipate the continued brilliance he brings to our collective journey. Here’s to Jaylen Collins—a force to be reckoned with, an inspiration to us all, and an integral part of the ATR success story.

 

Now, let’s turn our attention to Gregory Robinson, lovingly referred to as “G,” a Pensacola local who has graced ATR with his presence for a mere four months. Gregory’s journey is nothing short of an odyssey marked by profound adversity, a testament to his unyielding spirit and determination to conquer every challenge life throws his way.

In the tapestry of his life, one cannot ignore the defining moment where Gregory not only faced but triumphed over a violent incident that defied the very essence of survival. The scars etched on his body stand not as symbols of defeat but as badges of resilience—a living testament to the indomitable will that courses through his veins.  Given the details of this incident Gregory has not only exceeded our expectations but also those of an entire medical community, truly amazing.

Gregory’s unwavering commitment to pushing through life’s challenges doesn’t stop with personal struggles. In his brief time at ATR, he faced travel challenges head-on, conquering obstacles with a conviction that echoes life’s greatest achievements being worth the struggle. Gregory’s approach to adversity serves as an inspirational anthem, resonating through the corridors of ATR and beyond.  It was an honor to see someone who was told they would never walk or talk again rise above physical limitations to demonstrate a work ethic rarely seen.

His mantra, encouraging everyone to put their best foot forward, encapsulates Gregory’s philosophy and is a rallying cry for all who encounter him. It’s a call to action—a reminder that every step taken with determination contributes to the journey of triumph over challenges. Gregory’s words echo not just in our ears but in our hearts, igniting a spark of inspiration that transcends the workplace, creating a culture of resilience and relentless pursuit of goals.

As we celebrate Gregory’s resilience, we recognize him not merely as a colleague but as a beacon of determination. His journey at ATR, though brief, has already left an indelible mark on the collective spirit of the team. Gregory Robinson—a testament to the power of unwavering determination, an inspiration for all of us navigating the complexities of life, and a shining example of the triumph of the human spirit. Here’s to Gregory—a reminder that challenges are steppingstones to greatness, and with determination, every summit, even the cold ones at the top of the Utah mountains are within reach.

Marshall Royalty from our team from the Pontiac, IL location was tasked with managing the temp workforce and de-manufacturing processes, no easy task I can assure you!  With almost two years of invaluable service, Marshall stands out as an exceptional Inventory Specialist, wielding exceptional skills in rapid de-manufacturing—dismantling equipment with a precision and speed that ensures a facilities profitability.

Marshall’s contribution to the ever-changing workflows at ATR has been nothing short of remarkable. His ability to navigate through complexities and adapt to ever changing equipment steams have proven vital to operational success. His mastery in tearing down equipment at light speed in the de-manufacturing department is a testament to his technical prowess and commitment to excellence.

Beyond his professional achievements, Marshall is a proud father who aspires to be the best provider for his family. This commitment to family values is not only reflected in his work ethic but also in his personal aspirations. Marshall’s dedication to becoming a top-tier provider for his loved ones is a testament to the depth of character and responsibility he brings to the ATR family.

In addition to his work, Marshall finds joy in participating in SPL (Sound Pressure Level) competitions with his family. This shared passion not only reinforces the importance of teamwork but also showcases Marshall’s ability to bring people together in pursuit of common goals. The vibrancy and energy he brings to both his professional and personal pursuits illuminates his dynamic and multifaceted nature.

Marshall’s favorite quote, “Obstacles can’t stop you, problems can’t stop you, and most people can’t even stop you; only YOU can stop YOU,” encapsulates his philosophy and resonates deeply with the core values of ATR. It reflects a mindset that aligns seamlessly with our ethos—an unwavering determination to overcome challenges and strive for success, individually and collectively.  Under Marshall’s leadership the de-manufacturing department was able to process more loads in 6 days than in the previous 6 months, an amazing achievement!

As we applaud Marshall Royalty’s significant contributions to ATR, we acknowledge his unique blend of technical expertise, dedication to family, and passion for pushing boundaries. Marshall exemplifies the spirit of a true team player, demonstrating that success is not merely a destination, but a continuous journey fueled by resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We are privileged to have Marshall as a valuable member of the ATR family, and we eagerly anticipate the continued impact of his contributions as we navigate the challenges and successes that lie ahead.

Last but certainly not least is the crew’s inventory lead, Richard Rodriguez, affectionately known as Richie, from the Pontiac location. With an ongoing tenure of two years and eight months, Richie’s journey exemplifies not only commitment but also a remarkable ascent into leadership roles within the company.

Richie’s multifaceted contributions were vividly highlighted on his very first day as he assumed added roles to replace the outgoing managers. The SLC team, under Richie’s guidance, soared to become our number one site for inventory contributions. This achievement wasn’t just a momentary triumph; it signified Richie’s adeptness at steering a team towards excellence from the very beginning of his leadership role.

Beyond the role of team lead, Richie seamlessly donned multiple hats, including his pivotal position as the Employee Health and Safety (EHS) representative. Tasked with the responsibility of keeping the high-output crew safe while working at a blinding pace, Richie showcased not just leadership but strategic thinking, ensuring that every member contributed to the collective success of the team. His ability to inspire and guide others was a testament to his natural leadership qualities.

Richie’s journey at ATR, from starting as a temporary employee to becoming an integral part of the management team assisting the site, underscores the plethora of career advancement opportunities the company offers. His ascent within the ranks mirrors the ethos of ATR—where dedication and hard work pave the way for personal and professional growth. Richie’s story, which recently added homeowner to his impressive list of attributes serves as a beacon of inspiration for those who believe in the limitless possibilities that ATR provides to those who are ready to embrace challenges and exhibit leadership qualities.

Away from the workplace, Richie’s love for cars and bikes is not merely a hobby but a reflection of his hands-on approach to life. It resonates with the philosophy that true excellence is derived from a combination of skill, flow, and intensity. Richie’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing a passion for life that ignites enthusiasm in those around him.

Together with Jaylen, Gregory, and Marshall, Richie contributed significantly to the success of the SLC facility. Working tirelessly from 6 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Saturday, they sacrificed their holiday festivities to ensure the facility was not only operational but excelling in its endeavors. Their collective work ethic, complemented by their diverse skills and backgrounds, didn’t merely contribute to success—it etched a narrative of resilience, camaraderie, and team spirit that will resonate within the corridors of ATR for years to come.

As we reflect on our team’s journey, we celebrate these future leaders who have embraced challenges, guided our SLC team to success, and personified the spirit of growth within ATR. Here’s to our hard-working remote crews—a testament to the power of leadership, an embodiment of ATR’s commitment to fostering excellence, and a driving force behind the enduring success of our entire organization.

As we step into 2024, let’s carry forward the lessons learned from Jaylen, Gregory, Marshall, and Richie—the embodiment of ATR’s commitment to excellence, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of a united team. May their story inspire us all to face new challenges with enthusiasm, support one another in times of need, and, most importantly, remember that the true victory lies in the journey, not just the destination. Cheers to a phenomenal year ahead!

Employee Spotlight – December 2023

Courtney Stevens

Salt Lake City Compliance Administrator

Courtney Stevens is the Compliance Administrator at our Salt Lake City UT facility; however, she encompasses a multitude of qualities and attributes that make her an integral part of our entire team.  Over the course of her four-year tenure, Courtney has actively sought opportunities to broaden her skill set by mastering a diverse array of roles, many of which play a pivotal role in ensuring the overall success of the facility.  Managing shipping, inventory, and pipeline operations, alongside her extensive responsibilities as the Site Compliance Administrator, Courtney continuously monitors and reports to Senior Leadership the site’s safety, productivity, and adherence to regulatory standards.

Despite facing ongoing resource constraints Courtney collaborates effectively, and when necessary, encourages other members of her team to take on new challenges and help where needed. Her confidence in the team’s capabilities is unwavering, expressing a belief that together, they can overcome any obstacle.

Courtney takes on not only her designated responsibilities but also goes above and beyond to contribute to the success of the SLC team. As a robust and supportive team player, she excels not only in her role but also demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities. The SLC team is very appreciative of these efforts, recognizing her dedication, and their genuine care and respect for Courtney underscore the strength of their collaborative bond.Her strong work ethic and determination to excel are truly inspirational, as she finds genuine enjoyment in delving into the intricacies of compliance laws and regulations. Her passion for acquiring knowledge and experience is evident, reflecting a broader love for continuous learning.

Courtney’s Regional Manager, George Gray, says; “Courtney is inquisitive and somewhat of a perfectionist.  She yearns to know the correct answer and wants nothing more than to execute her tasks perfectly.  She can be counted on daily to keep the Regional Operations Manager informed, and the needs of the customers met.  Her administration of loads coming in and out of the site it flawless.”

She stands out as a remarkably talented and astute individual, celebrated for her outstanding teamwork skills and meticulous attention to detail, especially in the realm of compliance tasks. Courtney’s dedication to delivering excellent results is paralleled by her sincere concern for the quality of her work and the well-being of her colleagues. Her consistently surpassing performance goes beyond expectations, earning commendations from customers who praise her exceptional service during interactions.

Her drive, determination, and passion for learning propelled her to achieve the distinction of Valedictorian in her high school graduating class—a proud accomplishment that she envisioned from her freshman year. Courtney said, “I set my mind to it when I was first in my class Freshman year, and I was determined to sustain this accomplishment all the way through graduation.”  Courtney reflects on this achievement with pride, underscoring her commitment and focused mindset throughout her academic journey which has traversed into her professional career. WOW…congratulations Courtney!

Outside of her responsibilities at ATR, Courtney finds joy in a variety of activities, including reading, watching TV, hiking, and cherishing moments with her boyfriend and friends. Additionally, she treasures quality time with her feline companions, highlighting the importance of her bond with her cuddly and furry friends.

Furthermore, she shares a passion for singing karaoke with her mom and is actively involved in a band with her dad. In pursuit of her dreams, Courtney aspires to build a career in music, envisioning a future where she can lead a fulfilling and joyous life by doing what she loves.

When asked about the most impactful advice she’s ever received, Courtney shared a timeless wisdom from her mom. She recounted, “The best piece of advice I’ve ever received was from my mom, so long ago that I couldn’t pinpoint the exact moment. Essentially, she emphasized that if I love someone, I should never leave their presence without expressing it, even if I’m upset with them. Life is unpredictable, and it’s crucial that the people you care about are aware of your love just in case you never have the chance to see them again. I’ve embraced this philosophy ever since, and it will remain a guiding principle throughout my life.”

Congratulations, Courtney, on your remarkable achievements, both in your professional journey and personal endeavors. This well-deserved recognition is a testament to your dedication and hard work. You serve as a true inspiration to others, your drive, passion, persistence, and caring spirit radiate, creating a positive and contagious energy that draws people towards you. Your contributions to your co-workers, your site, and the success of ATR are genuinely appreciated. Thank you for your impactful presence and all that you do.

Employee Spotlight – November 2023 

Nicholas Peoples

Pensacola Internal Technician

 

Nicholas (Nick) Peoples began his journey with ATR in October of 2022.  Nick was among the very first group of employees hired on to our Corporate Headquarters in Pensacola Florida.  Nick was initially brought on board as a Computer Associate to work on a major project for a specific customer. During that time Nick was not only extremely helpful, dedicated, and hardworking, he was also willing and eager to jump in to help out with anything necessary.

His Director, Kenny Ehresman, described Nick as “a go-getter who is very willing to learn and push himself to get a task done.”  He went on to say that “Nick is working hard to grow his skill set.  He has already finished his A+ Certification and most recently completed his Security + to further expand his skills with networking and cyber security.”  A huge congratulations on this impressive accomplishment Nick!

 

With all of those accomplishments, and his desire to learn, Nick moved into an IT role – Internal Technician.  In this role his responsibilities include password resets, equipment maintenance, WiFi setup and computer security.  He’s involved in software projects, like the most recent Killdisk implementation, managing the Pensacola sites badge system, conducting software training and coordinating the tech teams at all of the ATR sites.  He has even learned how to run cat 5 wiring and helped build out the Pensacola infrastructure!  WOW…impressive!

Nick stated that he is very thankful to have earned the IT Technician job and appreciates the ability to learn something new every day in this role.  He enjoys having a new “problem” or challenge to figure out or solve every day.

The biggest challenge that Nick has had to overcome while being here at ATR was learning how to operate a cherry picker, to install cameras into the bricks of the building in the Pensacola site.  He said it was hot, and he’s not to fond of heights, but they got the job done.  Way to face your fears Nick…great job.  You are a true testament to one of your favorite quotes “there are two type of pain; the pain of action and the pain of inaction.”

Your willingness and dedication to continually take action is commended.

Some of Nicks coworkers describe him as very kind, somewhat quiet guy who never backs down from a challenge.  He is patient and always has a positive attitude.  He’s always there to help and never, ever complains or gives you the feeling you’re bothering him.  Nick is super easy to work with and always does his best to get the job done.

 

When he’s not problem solving here at ATR you can find him playing video games, at the gym or spending time with his finance…. who he plans to marry late next year…congratulations to you both!

Rising to the Challenge: Yaneris (Yani) Jimenez’s Inspirational Journey at ATR

At one of our busiest facilities located in Birmingham, Alabama—a vibrant Southern city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving arts scene—a remarkable story of dedication, resilience, and unwavering determination unfolds. This story exemplifies the potential for growth and success that lies within each of us, and it centers around a remarkable individual: Yaneris Jimenez.

 

Yaneris’ journey with ATR began two years ago when she joined the company as an enthusiastic warehouse associate.   Little did she know that this was just the beginning of a journey that would ultimately provide valuable leadership opportunities within our growing organization.

 

Her career at ATR has been a testament to her unyielding commitment to personal and professional growth. She started in the warehouse, working on deman (scrap disassembly) projects, demonstrating a strong work ethic and attention to detail that quickly caught the eye of her supervisors. With unwavering perseverance, she moved up the ranks, transitioning to inventory management, then to the role of Inventory Lead, and finally, to Warehouse Supervisor.

 

In her current role, Yaneris faces the daily challenges of ensuring her team is processing clients’ assets while adhering to strict R2v3 methodologies. Her optimism is a driving force, as she firmly believes that challenges can be overcome through hard work and teamwork. She approaches her colleagues with warmth and friendliness, always ready to lend a helping hand to those who may be struggling with a task.

 

When asked about what she loves most about working at ATR, Yaneris’ enthusiasm shines through. She enjoys the dynamic nature of her role, from the meticulous organization of inventory to the camaraderie she shares with her coworkers. ATR’s commitment to growth opportunities aligns perfectly with her career aspirations.

 

Yaneris’s impressive journey is not without its share of challenges. One memorable project involved the destruction of over a thousand gaming machines that needed to be processed very quickly as they take up valuable warehouse space. She tackled this colossal task not alone, but as part of a dedicated team, ensuring the job was completed efficiently, promptly and to the clients’ exact specifications.

 

What makes Yaneris truly exceptional is her unrelenting pursuit of self-improvement. In a surprising and inspiring twist, she opted to learn English and enhance her communication skills, putting herself in a challenging position that ultimately helped her connect more efficiently with her colleagues and supervisors.  When asked about some of her proudest accomplishments, Yaneris admits her inventory skills put her on a short list of associates who enter 400 plus assets per day into our database. These attributes have translated into the remarkable growth opportunities and the beginning of her leadership journey here at ATR.

 

Looking to the future, Yaneris has set ambitious goals for herself, and her long-term goal is to become an entrepreneur, open a gym, and help people improve their lives through a workout routine and better eating habits. She’s already making strides in this direction as an online gym coach, recording her videos at home. What’s truly important to her is making a positive impact on people’s health and well-being.

Her dedication and resilience at work are echoed in her personal life as well, as she enjoys spending her free time with her family, camping, and staying fit through regular workouts. To summarize her journey, Yaneris shares her favorite quote and a piece of advice that has guided her every step of the way: “Keep going because you can do whatever you want to do!” This mantra perfectly encapsulates her relentless pursuit of excellence.

 

Yaneris Jimenez is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a belief in one’s own potential. Her optimism, warm-heartedness, and unwavering commitment to her team and ATR have earned her this well-deserved promotion. She is not just a supervisor; she is a true inspiration to us all.

Congratulations, Yaneris, on your remarkable journey at ATR, and here’s to the bright future ahead!

 

 

Emily King Employee Spotlight – September 2023

Compliance Administrator – Birmingham AL

Emily began her journey with ATR on January 30^th of 2023  and hasn’t slowed down since day one!  In her role as the site Compliance Administrator, she shares that her position “wears a little bit of a lot of hats, which definitely keeps my day-to-day interesting. From helping onboard new employees, to working on CAPAs (Corrective and Preventive Action) and O&Ts (Objectives and Targets), to the safety meetings, to checking all the small details to prepare for audits…there is always something to do!”

When asked what she likes the most about what we do here at ATR she responded, “having a degree in Environmental Science, recycling at its very core is something that is important to me. The more times we are able to reuse something or to reduce the amount of material, especially hazardous material, going into the landfill is something to be celebrated. “

Her Project Manager describes Emily as “personable, communicative, patient, quick, knowledgeable, and thorough. Even while she is working on something – she is always spinning several plates – she will take the time to answer my questions to the best of her knowledge. More often than not, she can answer my inquiry, but in those rare cases where she is unsure, she knows exactly where to point me, and she never makes anyone with a concern or question feel like a burden, staff and customers alike.”

When asked why Emily deserves this recognition, he went on to say “Emily has been working at ATR for seven months now, and she has had to learn so much more than is asked of most admins, having taken on the logistics coordination role in Birmingham among picking up the compliance role in a whole new industry. She has a love for compliance, often raising hard-hitting concerns for corporate compliance and the company as a whole. When she sees these concerns, she conducts thorough research and compiles it for others to use and shares it with the company to see what she has found. She has coordinated training for several temps during a period when we had new contracted associates every week.  Since Emily started here, her responsibilities were far larger than her job description, but she not only took it in stride, but excelled. She is OSHA30 certified and had been before she began working at ATR, illustrating her dedication and interest in compliance. I highly recommend that Emily be recognized for her attention to detail in everything that she does. “

Emily is very proud of having earned her degree and explains that it was an incredibly difficult journey as her husband had several major surgeries throughout an entire year.  She shared that “many nights were spent with him in the hospital while completing a paper or a group PowerPoint presentation, all while still working. It would’ve been a lot easier and less stressful to have postponed or taken a leave of absence, but she persevered and not only graduated on time but Emily made the Dean’s list every semester and obtained her OSHA 30 certification in the process as well.”

When not at work she loves to spend time with her husband and their friends and families. I also enjoy painting, reading, playing video games, and doing embroidery.

Emily shared that her ultimate goal professionally in life would to be working in conservation/preservation…something to do with animals in a non-profit; that would be the dream.

When asked to share her favorite quote or piece of advice she responded with this; “Vincent van Gogh is someone of great inspiration to me in many areas of life, and I have a small portion of this quote as a tattoo for a daily reminder:

“It is good to love many things, for therein lies true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is done well.”

It reminds me that when you are operating in love and respect for others, both personally and professionally, you can be proud of the things you have accomplished.”

WOW…you really are an inspiration to all of us Emily.  Congratulations on this well-deserving award, not only for the work you’ve done, but for the person you are!

Jessica Ehresman our August 2023 Employee Spotlight

Jessica began her career with ATR in May of 2014 as a Customer Service Representative.  She is currently the Operations Support Supervisor and continues to develop her team and her leadership skills.  Jess is a very loyal and dedicated employee and is truly invested in the success of both her team and ATR overall.

Raquel Potts, the on-site HR Specialist in Pensacola shared “Jessica is an outstanding employee and is well deserving of this recognition.  She is always one of the first to arrive in the morning and the last to leave each evening.  She has run the Customer Service Department (now Operations Support) through some rough times with the relocation and hiring adjustments, but always has a smile on her face.  She is an amazing person and a great asset to the company.”

Even though she would probably never tell you, Jessica is very proud of her personal growth and the opportunity to build and supervise a successful team.  She started at the same level as most everyone else, and has diligently put in the effort to be able to now lead a team.  Her goal is to move into a Manager position and she loves the challenge of pushing herself to grow, lead and work with her team and co-workers, to solve issues as they come and to be a part of the solution.

Her Manager, Ray Magee, states “she is in the process of hiring and developing a team at the Corporate Office in Pensacola that mimic her abilities and work ethics.  She is focused on building a department that works together to bring a high standard of accurate information, reporting and new service to Customers and all ATR sites.

He also shares “Jessica takes full responsibility to ensure that her department meets our customers, ATR departments and all facilities expectations and needs.  She is consistency determined to meet the goals and timelines that are presented to her.  Also, with her willingness and ability to research and learn operations support Specialist tasks and needs, she has acquired a vast amount of knowledge and developed relationships with all departments within ATR”.

He goes on to say “In addition to her responsibilities in Operations Support, Jessica is also the Key Account Manager with ATR’s largest customers and has built strong and sound relationships with their key decision makers.  She has built these relationships by representing herself, and ATR, as knowledgeable and professional, working directly with the clients to ensure their expectations are met.”

When she is not working Jess is somewhat of a homebody, as family is her number one priority.  She does enjoy going out and exploring new places and being outdoors with her family and friends.  Jessica if a very loyal and dedicated wife and mother just like she is as an employee.  Jessica is somewhat shy and very humble, but her smile and her laugh also make her fun and someone you just want to hang out with.

One of Jessica’s favorite quotes is “Knowledge is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”  Her advise to all ATR employees is to stay positive and work one day at a time with the future in mind.

Congratulations Jessica on this well-deserved recognition!

July 2023 Employee Spotlight is Jon Millirons, Secure IT Destruction Specialist – Pontiac, IL

Jon “Big Jon” Millirons has been with ATR since March of 2021.  His career with ATR began at the BDI (off-site) facility working on special projects such as maintenance and working on vehicles.

Jon is now at the Pontiac Steel Building doing Secure IT Destruction.  He really enjoys this job and the responsibilities that go along with it.  His favorite part is receiving and processing some of the equipment we get in from our government.  And although he really enjoys Secure IT Destruction it’s also been his greatest challenge.  He says “learning the processes required to handle customers data sanitization needs and fixing or repairing their equipment, took lots of research, questions and notetaking”.  The fact that Jon has done all of that truly shows his determination and dedication to his job.

 

When asked what accomplishment Jon is most proud of, he shared “reorganizing the steel building and ITAR cage in order to be more efficient.  Also fixing the equipment and machines we all relay on every day to do our jobs.”

Jon always has a smile on his face and a positive attitude.  He’s always kind and friendly and has a laugh that’s contagious.

Dan Hendershott, his Site Manager, shared “Jon is being recognized for always going the extra mile to accomplish whatever task he is working on and for always being willing to help others”.   Not only does Jon work in our steel building, he’s always fixing, repairing or updating something in the building – from changing light bulbs to snow removal to electrical work.  He can pretty much “do it all”!

In fact, Dan went on to say that “it’s really hard to pinpoint a specific or special accomplishment that earned Jon this nomination because he takes pride in everything he does, is always giving his all, is continuously trying to improve the process and is just the kind of loyal employee you want to have”.

Jon loves learning how things work and coming up with ways that things can be reused or repurposed in a different way.  When asked if he had a goal here at ATR he answered, “I would like to revolutionize some aspect of electronic recycling, or figure out how to make money off of commodities that we have to pay to get rid of – for example plastic.

When he’s not working Jon enjoys camping, riding his motorcycle and attending motor cycle rallies.  He is very involved in the Central Illinois Chapter of Guardians of the Children which is a public benefit organization whose vision is “to improve the quality of life in our community by educating the public and making them aware of the steps to take in order to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to the reality of child abuse.”

His work with Guardians of the Children holds a special place in his heart and his life – and if you’d like more information about it, he would be happy to inform you!

 

When asked what his favorite quote was, or a piece of advice that he’s like to share Jon said “try to learn something new every day”.  He’s also famous for the saying “right-on”!

Congratulations Jon, for being recognized as our Employee Spotlight of the month and for all you do here at ATR!

June 2023 Employee Spotlight is George DeLoach, Warehouse Associate-Pensacola, FL

George joined the ATR Pensacola team shortly after opening the new Technology Refurbishment Center in October of 2022.  During his tenure George has continuously demonstrated a willingness to challenge himself and others by volunteering to assist with projects both locally and abroad.  During phase 1 of Pensacola’s facility conversion George was directly responsible for removing 1,000’s of pounds of raised floor plates and stands, as well as stacking and palletizing 100’s of desks left over from the previous owners Call Center.

Additionally, George recently volunteered to be part of an 11-person team that assembled from five different ATR facilities to prepare and ship 1,248 illegal gambling machines.  This project filled 12 semis, seven box trucks and took over four 12+ hour days, in hot humid conditions.  George also spends a considerable amount of time manually unloading and repacking shipments while the shipping dock is under construction, thank you George!

 

Keric Allen, his site manager, describes him as “the “go-to” warehouse team member who does not hesitate to take on any task regardless of the size or complexity. A majority of the time George has an extremely quite professional demeanor, but he will light up instantly when you ask him how his granddaughter is doing and what he has planned to do with her over the weekend. ATR Pensacola is fortunate to have such an amazing team member!’

George is a quiet and humble family man and a very hard worker.  In fact, he wanted to “give his nomination to another employee.”  He is obviously willing to just work and be in the background making a difference each day.  What he has enjoyed most about working at ATR is learning a wide range of different jobs, which has made him invaluable to his team.

When not at ATR he enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family.    His goal is to someday purchase a second home with 4 acres of land – I’m sure to do some hunting!  George believes that there are no limits to what you can do, and he hopes to inspires others to step outside their comfort zone and take on new challenges.

His best piece of advice is, “if not sure…ask!”.

Congratulations George and thank you for all that you do.

 

Brett has been with ATR since he graduated in August of 2014.  During those 9+ years he has worked in many positions such as shipping, asset recovery, inventory, MRSF and de-manufacturing.  Brett is currently the Warehouse Supervisor and says “he does his best to help his employees as much as he can”.  He does everything from loading and unloading trucks, tasking the team according to deadlines, doing hands on training and whatever else comes up in a day.  He is also involved in the Safety and Compliance team and the ICAPA meetings.

 

His Site Manager, Dan Hendershott, says;

“Brett is a very loyal and dependable person.  He is always willing to go the extra mile and do whatever he can do to get the job done.  He truly cares about the success of his team and of ATR”.

 

Brett really likes the fact that what we do here at ATR keeps this type of equipment out of our landfills – and he enjoys the people he works with!

When he’s not at work he likes to spend his free time with his family and friends, along with playing Dungeons and Dragons, listening to audio books and drawing.  He has been obsessed with the mid-evil times most of his life, and enjoys making armor and weapons out of cardboard.  He would one day like to be a master blacksmith and forge real weapons and armor.  One of the things he is most proud of, besides his family, is quitting smoking!

One of Bretts favorite quotes is “worrying only makes you suffer twice”.  Great advice Brett!

Congratulations on being selected for this month’s Employee Spotlight and keep up the great work!

Michael was one of the very first employees hired for our new Corporate Office in Pensacola Florida!  He has been with ATR for 6 months, and is currently the Line Tech Lead.  He is responsible for leading the team of line techs which involves prioritizing the workload, ensuring deadlines are met, problem solving and keeping them all on task.

When asked what he likes the most about working for ATR he shared “ I enjoy the atmosphere and the variety of work, I’m never stuck doing one thing”.  He also shared that he is most proud of how they’ve been able to create such a winning team in such a short time.  Notice that Michael stated “they’ve created”, which goes to show that he is truly a team player and he acknowledges the contributions of each team member.

His Site Manager, Keric Allen, describes him by saying; “Michael is a quiet professional who will take on any challenge head on with a “can do” attitude and deliver results!”  He goes on to share;

“Since Michael arrived at ATR Pensacola, he has distinguished himself through his professionalism, work ethic and positive attitude. Fittingly, he was selected and promoted to Lead Line Tech after only two weeks of working at ATR Pensacola. When asked to do something or adapt quickly to an order change, cancellation or unique request, Michael will quickly respond “I’ll get right on that” or “that’s not a problem”.  Much has been asked of Michael over the last three and a half months and he has consistently risen to the occasion. ATR expects great things from Michael and we are fortunate to have him on our team!”

We asked Michael to share some of the challenges he has faced here at ATR and how he overcame them.  He shared “When the first few line techs at the Pensacola site were onboarded, it was pretty chaotic. Fairly quickly, the team and I put our heads together to come up with a system that works for us and that we still use 6 months later!  I’m always up to take on a challenge and adopt unconventional strategies to get the job done.”

And “get the job done” he did!  Keric shared;

“Over the last 3 months Michael has had to quickly learn all things ATR G4 wholesale from the ground up while leading his team in the receiving, de-manufacturing, programming, testing, cleaning, and packaging of over 12,000 laptops & 1,000’s of ancillary components. This was no small task given these 12,000 laptops required the removal of over 25,000 stickers, 96,000 screws, and gallons of goo gone, alcohol, and Windex! Faced with these challenges, Michael’s team was never short on laughter or hard work and under his leadership, the “Conference Room Laptop Crew” has grown into a well-oiled laptop team machine”.

Outside of his busy work schedule Michael enjoys spending his time reading or working on art, and working out on the weekends.  He also has a big goal to save up enough to purchase some land!

When asked to share one of his favorite quotes Michael replied with;

“Never skimp on a good mattress and a good pair of boots. If you’re not in one, you’re in the other.”

His quiet, logical sense of humor is one of his many attributes.

Let’s thank Michael for all of his hard work and congratulate him on his well-deserved nomination and selection for this months “Employee Spotlight”!

 

 

 

Richard recently celebrated his 5-year milestone with ATR.  He was nominated by his Site Manager, Caleb Robinson, for his hard work and dedication.  Caleb had this to say about Richard, “Richard is a huge part of the ATR San Antonio team, and does not hesitate to share the knowledge he has learned over his 5 years of service, with his teammates and his leadership team.  As the new Site Manager, I will be looking to Richard to help train new employees that join the team in the future, specifically in our DE manufacturing process.  Richard cares about the safety of everyone at our building by acting as our onsite EHS representative.”

 

Caleb went on to say “I recently had the opportunity to work closely with Richard as he trained his new Site Manager on the de-manufacturing process within the SA facility with a hands-on training session.  Watching how productive Richard can be with any task you give him is very impressive.”

 

Richard enjoys his job in the demand area and takes pride in the teamwork that he and his co-workers show.  He’s proud of what they continue to accomplish, even though they do face challenges often.  Richards says “what’s inside the computers surprises him more and more”, and that’s part of the challenge.  He likes learning and wants to learn more about the mother boars and other part of the equipment he comes in contact with on a daily basis.

 

Outside of work Richard enjoys spending time with his family and is a softball fan!

 

Thank you, Richard for your hard work, loyalty and dedication to your team, the SA site and ATR!

 

Congratulations Richard!!!

 

Scott Cochran has seen many changes since joining ATR way back on May 9, 2011 at our Pontiac IL location as a warehouse associate.  There are very few jobs Scott hasn’t done over years but he’s been most successful interacting with customers as one of our most decorated Class C drivers.  Although Scott held various positions before joining ATR he’s gained many years of knowledge in customer service, vehicle maintenance and most recently forward and reverse logistics.

I have had the pleasure of congratulating Scott quite a few times over the years when he received a glowing review from one of the many customers Scott regularly interacts with.   It’s no surprise when we asked Scott what accomplishment he was most proud of, he stated making his customers feel like they are important, and providing the very best customer service possible.  He’s also very proud of perfectly executing a growing number of challenging pick-ups that were resource intensive, and showcased his ability to adapt very quickly to virtually any situation that arose.

Ray Magee, ATR’s Director of Client Services added, “Scott is dedicated and takes pride in his work and equipment.  Because of Scott’s tenure, professionalism and dedication, I am confident that ATR’s clients are always taken care of at the highest level.  He has received many compliments from clients through his years of service.”

Dan Hendershott ATR’s Regional Operations Manager and Scott’s immediate supervisor wrote, “I would describe Scott as outgoing and willing to help anywhere.  He provides great customer service and always puts our customers first.  Scott is willing to travel on short notice and willing to help out at other ATR facilities when needed.

Scott has certainly earned the respect of his peers so what does Scott have planned for the future?  Spoiler alert, Scott loves to travel…South that is!  He’s hoping to eventually move to a warmer climate and be done with the cold Illinois winters and relentless snow, we’re with you there Scott!

Congratulations Scott!

 

Brad Strobel joined ATR in November 2021 as warehouse associate with a wide range of technical experience which has helped him advance to a Site Supervisory role.  Before joining ATR Brad was pursuing a career in the medical field but later realized the health care industry wasn’t a good fit and he began transitioning into technical jobs.  He found success at a well known tractor dealership where he lead the effort to clean up their RIMM’s system which paved the way to becoming their Service Manager.

Brad prides himself on staying informed and enjoys reading books from his vast collection of nearly 400 publications that make up his personal library.  His goals are not limited to just literary work either.  When asked what he has planned for the future he responded with, “I want to better myself and help those around me to do the same and I want to show my gratitude when ever and where ever it’s needed.”

We couldn’t agree more, thank you Brad for joining our team and helping your site land the upcoming Erie County contract, great job!

When not at work Brad enjoys playing Lacrosse, in fact Brad helped manage his Middle and High school Lacrosse teams and modified learning gym classes.  Clearly Brad Strobel is someone who isn’t afraid to step up and help where it is needed most.

Congratulations Brad!

 

Paulina Espinosa de los Monteros joined ATR July 16, 2018 and has recently been promoted from Sales Manager to our Western General Manager! She is currently located at the San Antonio Texas location.

Pauline earned her Undergraduate in Biology and completed her MBA this Spring in Business Administration.

She is very determined, dedicated, and passionate about her job and what ATR does, stands for and believes in.  Her drive to learn operations, her leadership skills, and her work ethic made her the perfect candidate for this new position.

She is a very strong asset to our Management Team!

Outside of her busy work schedule Paulina loves reading, traveling, many outdoor activities and spending time with her husband Gerardo and their dog Arya. They will soon have a beautiful new addition to their family with their first child due in April of 2023!

Congratulations Paulina!

 

Hanna Cuplin joined our Las Vegas team in April of 2022 as our local Compliance and Administrative associate after working on the Las Vegas strip in the e-Sports field.

Hanna is an expert when it comes to paying attention to the details. She thoroughly checks the ID’s of all of our visitors. She verifies all customer load paperwork is accurate, providing a smooth experience for our drivers for pickup. Most importantly, she guides the Las Vegas team in all matters of compliance, ensuring we maintain all regulatory and administrative requirements, ensuring our customer’s needs are fully met while fulfilling our goal to responsibly reduce, reuse and recycle responsibly.

When not at work Hanna enjoys reading, video games and hiking, enjoying the great desert landscapes the Las Vegas Valley offers, and she looks forward to completing her associate degree after next semester, graduating in May.

When we asked her supervisor George Gray to provide some feedback on Hanna’s demeanor, he responded with;

” Our Company and the world need more Hannas. Her professional performance and outstanding demeanor directly contribute to the success of the Las Vegas site”.

Congratulations Hanna!

Dustin Pike joined the ATR in April of 2021 during the height of the global COVID lockdowns.  Dustin brought with him years of warehouse and commercial driving experience as well as a strong desire to enrich his career.   Dustin recently shared with us he had undergone weight loss surgery just 6 months before starting his new job at ATR.  Since that time Dustin has lost an additional 80 pounds!  Way to go Dustin!

Dustin is a “lead by example” kind of guy, in fact, Dustin arrives to work each day 30-45 minutes early to open the main gate for the rest of the crew, and during the winter months he even shovels the walkways and salts them, so nobody slips and falls.    Thank you Dustin, we all appreciate your willingness to look out for your team.

Dustin Pike’s willingness to help doesn’t stop with the morning routine either.  The main warehouse furnace recently malfunctioned over the weekend and Dustin stepped up and offered to check the building twice a day until the repairs could be completed on Monday.

When he’s not training to become our back up driver, Dustin enjoys some down time taking in local car shows, races.  And of course, as a true Michigander he enjoys camping, fishing, cooking and travel.    Although Dustin enjoys all these activities, he and his wife Rachel will soon have something even more important in their lives…yes folks, you heard it here first, the Pikes are expecting their first child in the fall!   Congratulations to Dustin and Rachel!

It’s no wonder Dustin had a huge smile on his face when I took this picture.  In the past year he’s lost 80 pounds, bought his first house, advanced his career at ATR and now he’s an expectant father, clearly Dustin is a busy guy!

Angela Sullivan-Shoop joined the ATR Customer Service Team in the Summer of 2021.  She brings 20+ years of experience in the customer service field. She’s had positions with Edward Jones in both St. Louis, MO & Tempe, AZ.

She was also a Project Manager for a firm in NYC. After years of experience, she decided to move back to Illinois, her home State. She then worked with Country Financial and the Illinois Farm Bureau for several years. Here at ATR, she’s the Customer Service Manager, and leads a team of 4 outstanding team members.

Working with a diverse background of clients has enabled her to lead the team with a unique perspective. Empowering other women to do their best, is a personal and professional goal.

Angela lives in Lexington, IL with her husband Michael and has 3 spoiled pets. Time with family and friends is a priority, but she prefers time in her Art room creating original pieces for them. Her medium is graphite pencil, colored pencil, and recently acrylic painting.

Cristina’s first day was on February 4^th 2019, since then, she has demonstrated her work ethics and her ability to excel on every position that she has worked. She started in our de-manufacture department, then she was moved to the tech-recovery department, then to our wholesale department, and recently, she was promoted to Site Supervisor.

Her organization and structure motivates people who work around her to do better. She is a natural leader. “Cristina has a no-nonsense approach” – One of her coworkers said, Cristina is reserved, very responsible, and dependable”.

Cristina loves to spend time outdoors with her husband, especially when they go on a motorcycle road trip.

Arturo De La Rosa a proud native of Texas but currently residing in Las Vegas NV where he joined the ATR management team in 2021.

Arturo is a 6 year Marine veteran and just recently graduated from ATI where he completed 720 hours of training to become a licensed electrician.

Arturo previously worked at Republic Services in their MRF (material recycling center) which is the largest facility in the US. While working at the MRF Arturo oversaw the production line and worked in maintenance. Additionally Arturo has 27 years production and warehouse experience he plans to utilize in Las Vegas.

When not working hard to protect the environment, Arturo enjoys spending time with his family and is the proud father of a 21 year son. Arturo also enjoys playing softball and golf in his down time.

Arturo welcomes the opportunity to help the Las Vegas team expand their coverage areas and service offerings in the Western US region and he’s grateful to be working with a company like ATR where his skills and knowledge can have the greatest impact.

Romeo, known as Romey around the site, has been working at the Las Vegas facility since April 2019 when he joined our team as a temporary associate.

Romey is an expert at finding valuable items as he sorts through bins of unwanted electronics.  His sharp eye has helped us identify some awesome antique treasures which help generate revenue for the facility.

In addition to having an “Eagle Eye”, Romey is also one of the fastest associates we have for equipment disassembly and inventory control. In fact, he recently won a contest in the  warehouse for fastest processing times, and not just once but twice!!  Way to go Romey!!

Romey is well known as a “team player”,  everyone agrees he’s always willing to help out coworkers in need by offering tools, and assistance to make each job run as smooth as possible.

When asked what he would like to share about his experience at ATR he said;

“I’m always EAGER to learn more”.

Romey is also known for bringing in amazing goodies to our potluck events including his legendary CHEESECAKE, YUM! Outside of work he likes to go camping, and play chess.

Courtney has been with ATR for just over 1 year, and currently works as the regional Administrative Assistant in Salt Lake City UT.  Courtney is also part of our Corporate Compliance Team.  This very important group ensures that all our facilities remain in good standings, and our staff receive the most up-to-date training available.

In addition to her important duties in SLC, Courtney is also a newlywed! She’s an animal lover, and graduated at the top of her high school class, valedictorian.

Courtney always has a smile… even during annual audits! She loves singing with her family, and is a huge fan of the show, “Friends”.

Laura has been with ATR for a little over 5 years, starting back in June of 2015.  She started off in asset recovery, listing items in our pipeline.   Currently she serves as NY’s Compliance Coordinator for the last 4 years.  Here she has excelled in maintaining her Site’s compliance and operational procedures, which adhere to our Internal Management System.   Laura is very knowledgeable to ATR’s regulations and has always been a key asset in audits, researching OSHA guidelines, R2 Standards and assisting other to assure ATR NY’s success.

In Laura’s spare time she enjoys time in the outdoors, by going camping, numerous outdoor activities, and attending concerts, in which she does miss due to the World’s current situation.

Alan has worked at ATR for 4 years and is currently a CDL driver in Birmingham, AL. Alan started his career at ATR working in the warehouse and obtained his CDL license 2 years ago. He is a dedicated coworker who never has an issue going on a trip, no matter how far it is.

Alan says he finds peace on the open roads. In fact, Alan’s only complaint is having to drive his truck in the rain and getting it dirty!

Like all good Alabamians, you can find Alan watching The Crimson Tide any Saturday in the Fall. When not watching Alabama Football, Alan and his wife Candee can be found relaxing on the lake trying to catch large mouth bass or in the woods trying to spot a Whitetail deer.

Alan is a dedicated employee that everyone at ATR-Birmingham and the other 7 ATR locations across the country have the fortune of working with.

Way to go Alan!

Robert Triplett has worked for ATR  for 2 years, and was recently promoted to the team lead position in Pontiac (Corporate Headquarters) nine months ago.

Robert is well known for his ongoing efforts to make improvements, and he strives to have all incoming loads completed on time; or beforehand with some enthusiastic help from his awesome team in Pontiac.

Robert always pushes himself harder than he pushes others to get things done, and believes it’s best to lead by example . He is very punctual and doesn’t miss work unless he absolutely has to, and Robert routinely works through emotional and physical pain even when his body may disagree.  Robert is a proud Vietnam veteran; a hero to our country and to our Team.

Thank you for your service on and off the battlefield Robert, and keep up the great work.

Way to go Robert!

Mercedes Martinez is married with 5 beautiful children. Mercedes began her career with ATR on October 19, 2015 as a part time file clerk, transitioned to full time Receptionist for the  Corporate Office in Pontiac, IL.

Mercedes has worked in the shipping department and HR Department (HR Assistant). Mercedes was promoted to the Compliance Coordinator for Pontiac where she tends to stay!

I asked her what she likes to do in her spare time, and after we shared a good laugh on how little time a Mother of 5 actually has, Mercedes shared how much she enjoys cheering on her kids at the many sporting events they’re involved with.

Way to go Mercedes!

Pete Swavely joined the ATR Business Development Team in late 2019. An industry veteran, Pete brings 14+ years of experience to ATR, with extensive expertise in electronics resale and niche recycling markets. Upon entering the industry in 2005, he founded resale operations for a prominent regional electronics recycler, and grew that portion of the business for the next decade before entering into an Outside Sales role in 2014. Pete prides himself on an ability to find solutions for complex and diverse customer needs.
Pete resides in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and is a native of the beautiful Lehigh Valley. An avid outdoorsman and seeker of novelty, his hobbies include metal detecting, rockhounding, mushroom foraging, and Disc Golf. Pete also enjoys spending time with his young and growing family which just got a little bigger, congratulations Pete!

Frank Brooks joined the ATR team in March of 2020 as the Site manager in Richmond, VA.  Serving over 20 years in the US Navy as an Aircraft Mechanic and Production manager in aviation, Frank brings many years of management experience and technical knowledge to the team. Originally form Dayton, Frank is married with three kids, and graduated from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Project Management. He is currently working on his project management professional certification and attending Boise State in his off time to complete his Master’s Degree in Business Administration.

Lourdes knows all about ATR’s culture of growth and opportunity. She started at ATR in September of 2018 as an Asset Specialist where she researched the value of re-marketable assets, managed online postings, and worked with customers to answer questions and resolve any issues. She also spent time learning the sales pipeline (where re-marketable assets from all 8 locations are prepared for resale) and working in the shipping department, before moving to LCDs and being made Team Lead. Noting ATR’s proclivity to hire from within, Lourdes submitted her resume to HR and was offered the position of Asset Recovery Material Supervisor. She credits her hard work and dedication, along with management’s willingness to promote from within, to the success she has enjoyed at ATR.

Lourdes and her wife moved to Pontiac (from Florida) to be closer to family. The affordable cost of living in the area allows her wife to pursue a nursing degree. For them, Pontiac has been “a new beginning to a fresh start to success.

A proud father of 6 beautiful children, Fred was born and raised in Grand Rapids and continues to call the 49507 Cottage Grove area his home.

Fred is a straight-shooter. He will always be there to lend a hand with anything people need help with. He is reliable, punctual, trustworthy, and respectful. Fred works on inventory, runs the baler, drives the forklift, goes out on pick-ups, and does whatever else is needed to help make things go right. He is not afraid of learning new things and stepping outside of his comfort zone. Fred is committed to his job and takes pride in the work that he does.

Fred has been with ATR for almost 2 years and has become an essential component to our team. Fred is an LSU fan and in his free time he enjoys bowling and going out to eat.

Great Job Fred!

Elizabeth Worwood has made major strides in the continual improvement of ATR’s compliance infrastructure, personnel development and expansion this year. Her current position is Corporate Compliance Specialist with an emphasis in Document Control, the development of company procedures, maintenance of records and legal requirements. Liz has been in the electronics recycling industry since January 2016.  Her home base is the ATR site in Salt Lake City. Liz has held various positions but has always been involved with Compliance.  While working for ATR she obtained her Associates Degree of Science in Legal Studies. In culmination of the multitude of contributions this year, Liz received the ATR Presidential award for 2019! Truly a stellar performer!

Liz says that she really enjoys her job and the wonderful team she works with. She highly enjoys traveling to the different sites to assist during audits and meeting everyone in person.

Liz is a proud Mom to a 9 year old boy named Quinn. She enjoys spending time with her son. Liz also enjoys camping, fishing and cooking. She is an avid animal lover and currently has 2 cats named Sally and LeStat.

Linda started with ATR in Jan 2013 as the very first San Antonio employee. Linda has held positions as Administrative Assistant, Asset Recovery Supervisor, Corporate Training Coordinator and most recently as Downstream Vendor Compliance Specialist.

Linda had several noteworthy accomplishments this year starting with an all-inclusive Downstream Vendor vetting program which was lauded as “Best Practice” in four annual audits by four separate Auditors!   Linda was also recognized for her contributions in developing the Master Material Flow List by Orion Registrar during the recent Las Vegas certification audit.

Great Job Linda!

Linda enjoys Dart Point Hunting (looking for arrowheads), Wood-burning and numerous other crafts. She also enjoys movies and spending time with her family. Side note; Linda is a gourmet cook that would rival any Food Network Chef.

Hello my name is Yazmin Lopez.

While I’m trying to balance life, work and school, I still find time to have free time. During my free time I enjoy exploring Las Vegas night life as well as it’s outdoor/nature scene. I have only lived in Las Vegas since November of last year so everything is pretty new. Back home in Oxnard , California there was a lot of hiking and outdoor activities that my family and I would do on the weekend. Since I moved here my first job has been at ATR, but before actually being employed here at the end of January, I enrolled in school and still am currently attending. I will be a graduating with my Associates in Computer Network Technology and getting my Comptia Certifications. Since I been here I have taken many roles and responsibilities and have learned so many things. I have used my knowledge, skills and work experiences to help not only my self but also my administrator help facilitate the transition of my co-workers and new employees into their new roles and work area. I currently am the Supervisor at ATR. I  believe I still have much to learn and improve but my hard work and dedication and willingness to teach and help others as well as hear out my co-workers and be their voice will help us excel as a team.

I am 24 years old, I live in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Born and raised in Grand Haven. I have a 6 year old Labrador/Doberman/Greyhound named Malibar. We love to be outside and hike in the woods, but Mal loves to swim so we go to the beach any chance we get.

I love to learn and am an avid podcast listener. However, I am a busy body and I just can’t sit still, so I usually listen while I do something else. Cleaning the house or crafts projects are some of my favorites. Currently my new hobby is the art of cross-stitch.

Very happy to be a part of the ATR team!!!

William started with ATR on May 1^st, 2019. After moving to Las Vegas from the Seattle area in 2001 he worked in the Casino industry for 12 years as a Pit Boss before moving on to Trade Shows & Conventions.

William has a 5 year old son who loves playing sports, hiking when the weather is cool, and swimming when the weather is hot. Vegas is such a great location as it allows them frequent trips to the beach only 3 ½ hours away.

Fun Fact: William once watched an NBA player lose 4.5 million dollars in 45 minutes playing Baccarat.

Jared joined the ATR New York team in April 2019 and he is the current site Manger for New York.  When asked what his primary objectives were for the New York site his immediate response was to enhance the overall customer experience by improving the facilities operational capabilities and efficiency.

Jared has spent the past 20 years in the Army with 3 years Active Duty and the remaining 17 + years in the Army Reserves.  While serving his country Jared has spent the last 11 years preparing new recruits as a Drill Sergeant and looks forward to working with even more recruits in the years to come!

Fun fact: Home improvement jobs are Jared’s number one hobby and he loves spending time with his family including his 2 1/2 year old son.

Robert or as most know him Bobby started with ATR on the 19th of December 2018 in the maintenance department at HQ. He is a lifelong resident of Pontiac, Il. where he and his wife have six children. Bobby came to ATR from the construction field where he has worked most of his adult life. Bobby has a great attitude, larger than life and is always is a good mood. He is willing to assist any one that needs his help, and with a can do attitude. He will complete any job that is giving to him even if it means seeking outside information to accomplish it!

Fun fact: Bobby was a Livingston County Sheriff for a few years before transitioning  his career to the labor union.

Miguel Martinez , aka (Mike the Gardener) started with ATR 2014 and went to a 1099 employee in 2015 and then back to an ATR employee in 2017.  Miguel is the Maintenance Supervisor located at the HQ in Pontiac, IL.   Not only does Miguel make sure things are functional at HQ, he has traveled to many other ATR sites as well.

His family and friends are what he holds near and dear to his heart, and enjoys spending time with them all.  In his free time Miguel enjoys working on cars, and attending car shows.

Gearld Zeller started with ATR in 2014 as a technician repairing computers to be sold into the secondary market for ATR.  He grew his skills to achieve a position with the internal technicians where he now monitors, repairs and upgrades internal ATR infrastructure to ensure ATR stays online.

While Gerald loves to work for ATR on the internal infrastructure, in his free time he loves to to take his boat out on the river in the summer.  Gerald does a little knee boarding or just go for a nice ride. In the winter months he reads and watches educational programs, but football supersedes any of those things. Gerald is a die hard Green Bay Packers fan, so he catches a lot of flack about not rooting for the Bears.

Nikia has been working at ATR for almost 1 year. Nikia works as Site Administrator for our facility in Birmingham, AL. She graduated from A. H. Parker high school in 2011 with a honors diploma and graduated from Benedict College in 2015 with a Magna Cum Laude diploma. After graduating from Benedict College she started school at Virginia College and obtained her HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) certification and graduated in 2016 with a honors diploma. Nikia likes to have fun but also likes getting the job done. In her spare time she likes to play basketball and watch football, spend time with her family, and relax whenever she has the time. Nikia says she has learned a lot while being an employee here at ATR and looks forward to continued growth within the company.

Joshua started as a temp with ATR in July 2017 working in the warehouse. His hard work was quickly recognized and Joshua was hired as the Administrator for the Grand Rapids office. Josh is a driven, detailed person who istrives to get the job done correctly and on schedule. He is also a team player that is always willing to pitch in to help co-workers when needed.

Joshua was recognized by his co-workers in 2018 with the Very Important Peer Award in Grand Rapids and runner-up for the President’s Award issued by our Corporate Office.

When not at work, Joshua attends Grand Rapids Community College and spends as much time as possible with his son, Wyatt.

Doug Timmerman has been with ATR over 3 years he currently works in our shipping department. Doug started in the warehouse and performed several different job functions moving to shipping 2 years ago. Doug completes shipping for all retail packages and assists with wholesale as well. Doug is a native to the Pontiac IL area. Doug is always willing to answer questions and to ship last minute packages. He always has a smile on his face and is a great asset to the ATR team.  Outside of work Doug enjoys music going to concerts and playing Guitar in his own band.

Eric has been working at ATR over 2 years in the warehouse at our NY facility. Eric works primarily on the de-manufacture line but also does whatever task that may be assigned to him. He is very helpful with training new employees in the warehouse as well as completing general warehouse work, unloading trucks, going out with the driver to customer pickups & daily inspections. Eric Is the go to guy for any questions or help when the warehouse supervisor is not available. Eric has always been a great team player and has great attendance, making Eric an ideal employee. Eric has been married for 17 years and has a daughter. Outside of work you would find Eric in his garage working on anything with a motor and does home repairs.

Vicki McBeath has been with ATR for just a little over  10 months  as the front desk receptionist . Vicki  always has a smile on her face ready to greet the employees and customers as they walk through the front door. She is always  a  great help to anyone who ask ‘s for her assistance. Vicki is an amazing person to work with no matter the day or time she is just a great person all together!  Vicki was born & raised in Pontiac.  She worked at Interlake for 29 years before a job elimination.  Vicki also worked at Futures Unlimited for 8 years before joining the ATR team.  Vicki is very active in her church she loves to help out with the food pantry.  Vicki loves to go to garage sales and find those hidden treasures.  Vicki says 1 mans junk is another man’s treasure.  Family is very important to Vicki she has many social gatherings with her family.  Vicki also loves to get in her car with Dick and just start driving and not sure where she is heading but make ever trip an adventure.

Joe has been with ATR for 7 years as the Logistics supervisor.  Joe has over 20+ years in logistics and warehousing. Joe is a huge LA Rams Fan and loves to talk about his team.  Joe is always willing to go the extra mile for ATR.  Joe comes in on weekends to make sure the fleet of trucks are plugged in and ready to go for Monday.  Joe Lives in Pontiac with his wife and 2 boys and his dog Peanut.  In the summer Joe is watching his White Soxs loose and complaining  about the cubs winning.  Joe is a diehard south side fan.  Joe also loves watching superhero movies.

Ray is a native of the Western New York area and started work for ATR in August of 2015. Ray brings with him over 25 years of warehouse experience. Ray started in the warehouse entering inventory; helped start up of our demanufacturing line then was promoted to warehouse supervisor in February 2016. Ray has since taken over all duties of the warehouse. Ray is responsible for all incoming & outgoing loads, organization and inspections of the warehouse, overseeing all warehouse employees to make sure procedures are followed and training is up to date.

Outside of work, Ray has 3 children, 5 grandchildren with a 6^th due any day. Ray spends his time bowling in two leagues as well as spending time at his grandson’s hockey games. He is an avid Buffalo Bills & Sabers fan.

Lindsey is a Richmond native who started with ATR in May 2017. He has taken a leading role in the warehouse in his short time with us. Lindsey was critical in eliminating a six month back log by processing over 1000 items in the database. He conducted the warehouse weight down and training our new personnel. When you ask Lindsey to compete a task you can expect him to repeat his instructions back to you to get the nod of approval, then go, and get it done.

Lindsey is married with four children and enjoys trash talking the Packers (his wifes team) and winning big money at the Casinos. He also loves traveling with his family down in Virginia’s pristine beaches, Washington D.C and Atlanta.

This month’s submission comes from a long line of excellence! Adrian Mata has been a full time employee for approximately 4 months. Since he has been here he has quickly learned the warehouse processes, procedures and equipment. He’s immediately became an expert in shipment preparation and materials loading/unloading. Additionally, Adrian developed a system to track and identify the contents of each gaylord loaded with LCD’s facilitating sales and greater customer satisfaction. Adrian also stepped up to become our newest box truck driver and asset pick-up agent. Additionally he is becoming our latest GSA qualified driver filling a vital role in daily operations. Adrian’s dedication and willingness to take on new tasks, responsibilities and tackle problems has earned him the October Spotlight for San Antonio.

The San Antonio Team greatly appreciates the efforts of Mr. Mata and submits him as our Spotlight Candidate for October 2017. Great job Adrian!

Jay came to ATR in 2014 as a entry level technician. Jay has achieved a A+Certification as well as some Cisco training on basic functionality. Jay helps aid in the repair of all the Pontiac and Remote sites internal IT issues from laptops, desktops, printers and much more. With Jay’s passion for electronics he has pushed himself to achieve in areas he is not fluent with to be successful.

When not at ATR he has a passion for cars and works on his dad’s drag car, also works on his dad’s farm, fishing and also loves Netflix.

John Gallup started with ATR in 2015 as a CDL Driver. He is always respectful and a great motivator for coworkers.

Due to his pleasant positive attitude, he has received many compliments from our customers. He is always willing to fill in any way he can to contribute to the success of ATR.

He is very meticulous when caring for ATR vehicles he is possession of. I have heard it said many times by many different employees that John is very trustworthy honest and hard working. He is the go to for many questions. (And he brings in the most amazing tomatoes to share.)

His dedication and commitment combined with his positive attitude helps add to the success of ATR and continued customer service.

Before coming to ATR John owned a bus company in Arizona. John is Married with 2 kids and 7 grand children.

Tom Stinger has been a valuable employee here at the SLC Utah site for over a year. He was hired on as a maintenance employee and has transitioned into many different positions within the company. He is always willing to step up and do what is needed to get the job done. He currently splits his time between driving the forklift, maintaining equipment, training, sorting material, and organizing the warehouse while still accomplishing all of his daily tasks

In his free time he enjoys time with his girlfriend learning her Ecuadorian culture. He also enjoys spending time outdoors in the beautiful state of Utah, live music, and watching Independent films.

Andres “The Machine” Aguirre is an exemplary two year employee of ATR. A Veteran of the US Army and US Postal Service, he began his journey with ATR in 2015 quickly became a DEMAN expert. He became known as “The Machine” due to his relentless work ethic and razor sharp focus. His reputation was made evident this month demonstrating his high flexibility in the warehouse when tasked to prep and then re-prep 18 gaylords of LCD Monitors to provide product sizes. This quick and accurate effort satisfied customer requirements guaranteeing a short turn sale worth over $9,500. Additionally, Andres demanufactured, sorted and prepped 7,600 lbs of circuit boards solidifying a sale worth $20,461.

The San Antonio Team greatly appreciates the efforts of Mr. Aguirre and submits him as our Spotlight Candidate for June 2017.

Alan McCabe is our Team Leader at the Birmingham, AL facility. He began his time at ATR June 13, 2016 as an Inventory Specialist in processing equipment. He has enjoyed learning more about the technological components we receive from our many customers. As the Team Leader, he enjoys the fast pace and varied job responsibilities necessary in being successful in his role. He likes increasing the efficiency of his team and working through others to get the job done. Prior to his service with ATR, he worked for an Armored Car Service for 10 years. In his spare time he enjoys hunting and target shooting. He enjoys spending time with his wife, family, and 2 dogs, Scruffee and Sassee.

Linda Fischer is our Training Supervisor and arranges our Corporate Travel. She began working for ATR in January of 2013 at the then newly opened San Antonio facility. As business picked up, additional team members were brought on board. She is proud of having assisted in opening that facility and is a team player. She has always been into recycling, and as a young adult picked up trash and carried it out of the back woods in national and state parks across the country.

Outside of work, Linda enjoys quiet time with her husband and keeps him well feed on homemade cuisine from tips and tricks she learns from the cooking channel. Linda has one Son that served time in the Air Force and is a Great Grand Mother.

Vanessa Rockwell is our Employee Spotlight for November 2016, she is a very dedicated Asset Recovery employee in the Salt Lake City/Tooele ATR location. She is known for going above and beyond to take care of all her e-Bay customers, and helps them get exactly what they are looking for. Vanessa recently won a contest we ran between all of our Asset Recovery employees at all of our sites by achieving the highest total sales in a 48 hour period.

She is a pleasure to work with, and her co-workers all respect and appreciate her hard work. She is a very hard-worker, she works two jobs to support herself and her 3 children. Vanessa loves spending time outdoors and watching her kids play sports. She has been a key aspect in helping to grow our e-Bay sales.
We appreciate all your hard-work, thanks for everything you do Vanessa!

Preston Schultz is one of our most hard-working Tech Assistants in the new Salt Lake City ATR location. Preston interviewed for a Warehouse position but his knowledge of Technology stood out from the very beginning. He loves the fast paced environment and always having something new and exciting to work on. He feels like he is building a great wealth of knowledge to do his job better every day! Preston loves the people he works with; he really enjoys what he does here. He is always willing and able to help out in the warehouse when needed also.

In his life outside of work he is a true family man. He has a lovely wife, two children, and a baby girl on the way! Thank-you Preston for all of your hard work!

Brittany worked in Asset Recovery for a year and a half prior to transferring to our newly developed Customer Service Department . One of Brittany’s favorite experiences while working at ATR is learning that stepping out of your comfort zone can help you achieve much more in any position you may hold. While in Asset recovery, Brittany found enjoyment in making sales and, especially in wholesale. She also enjoys attending the company Christmas Party every year. Brittany attended IVCC college for a year and a half. While there, she studied forensic science and earned a certificate in criminal justice. In Brittany’s spare time she enjoys fishing and attending concerts, but is not opposed to a relaxing night at home. Brittany also enjoys spending time with her friends and family. Brittany has two sons: Landyn (2 years old) and Zander (1 year old). With Landyn and Zander only 10 months apart they make sure to keep her on her toes at all times! She wouldn’t have it any other way as her boys are her world. She also has a very sweet 1 year old boxer/pit mix puppy named Asher.

James Johnson III is the site manager of our Grand Rapids Michigan facility. He has been with ATR for going on 8 months now. James has several years of managerial expertise. He brings a wealth of knowledge and teamwork to our staff. His favorite experience thus far at ATR is getting through our External R2 audit with 0 non-conformance through working hard as a team. We proudly congratulate him for that! In his spare time he enjoys hunting, fishing, and being on the water. James also secretly writes poetry, with 200 poems written so far. James has several pets including his purebred German Rottweiler, several Peacocks, Exotic Pheasants and show quality chickens. His goal is to educate people on the toxins that are in the Great Lakes and what we can do to prevent these toxins from continuing to pollute our waters.

Donna Comens has worked at our Pontiac, IL location 5 years on July 25th. Her current position held is Customer Service Manager, though she has had several management positions, here at corporate. Some of Donna’s favorite things about working for ATR is getting the opportunity to travel to places like Niagara Falls and the River Walk in San Antonio. She loves being part of a Management Team, that has helped grow ATR from 2 sites to now 7, in a few short years. Donna is a wonderful role model, mentor, and coach to the teams she has led over the years. Donna has a way with her spunky self that can bring anybody out of their shell, and she will push them to their full potential. “Knowing you have helped in some small way to mold them into productive employees that have the confidence to conquer whatever is put in front of them, Well that is just the Best!”

Donna has been married to her absolute best friend Mike for 7 years, and loves to spend time with her family every chance she gets. Some of her hobbies are Nascar and the Broncos when they go to the Superbowl! She did successfully graduate with honors at the School of Hard Knocks . LOL! She has two absolutely beautiful dogs, her sweet Shiatsu named Bella, and her naughty little toy poodle, Fred.

Kim Mislich is the Receptionist at our Pontiac, IL location. She came to ATR in April 2016 with a background in sales and joined the Asset Recovery team. She decided to move to the receptionist position when it opened up last month. She enjoys being at the front desk, and is looking forward to being involved in planning more events for employees to enjoy.

Kim loves spending her free time with family and friends. She moved back to this area in order to be close to her mom, brother, children and grandchildren. She loves traveling, spending time outdoors, and entertaining at home. Her hobbies include exercise like yoga, walking, and bicycling; as well as riding motorcycles and fishing. She attended Lincoln College and earned her degree in Travel & Tourism.

Kim does a great job working with customers at the front desk and we truly appreciate all of her hard work!

Barbara Smith works at our Pontiac, IL location, and has been working here for one month. She is an Administrative Assistant, and handles Accounts Payable & Receivable. She helps out where needed in the office, and has been very quick in learning the many facets of her new position. She has loved getting to know everyone here at ATR, and states “Their willingness to help me learn about the company and the support I have received has been incredible.”

Barbara is always on the go, and enjoys traveling and attending events in her spare time. She has a daughter in San Francisco, and a son in Denver. They love to meet up in different cities for quick family trips. She is a big supporter of the Denver Broncos, and an avid sports fan in general. She can never get enough of watching games!

In her short time here, Barbara has been a great asset to ATR; her experiences and input have earned her the Employee Spotlight for this month!

Jill Maroon works at our Pontiac, IL location, and she started here in April of 2015. Her first job was very unique; she joined our team as a judge during the One Million Pound Challenge. Then, she worked in the warehouse, sold wholesale for Asset Recovery and now is a part of our Customer Service Representative team.

In her spare time, Jill loves being an assistant coach for her daughter’s Little Miss Softball League. Jill has two daughters, Navaeh (8) and Amilya (1), she also has a boxer named, Bullet. She attended Kaskaskia Community College where she obtained a certificate in Criminal Justice. Jill participated with ATR in walking in the Thresherman’s Reunion Parade; it was a nice way to get her family involved! Also, she has worked some of our E-Waste Drives and those are a great way to learn new aspects of our business and help our local communities!

Paul Kridner is an Asset Recovery Specialist at our Pontiac, IL site. In Asset Recovery, Paul sells equipment either retail or wholesale. He joined ATR back in November of 2014. Paul said that he enjoys working our E-waste Drive events because it’s interesting to learn about all the different equipment while also keeping the environment clean.

When Paul isn’t busy keeping the environment clean, he is usually hanging out with friends, playing video games or watching movies. He can also be a little artsy since he paints. Paul has his motorcycle license, and can been seen cruising around town on his moped. Also, he is currently attending Heartland Community College to obtain his Associates Degree. Paul already had one cat named Panther, but recently he rescued a small kitten and named him Sunnie. Paul is a very hard worker and he’s a great part of our team!

Ellis Gonzalez is the Administrative Assistant/Logistics Coordinator at our San Antonio, TX site. He joined our team back in March of 2015. Ellis really enjoyed being a part of ATR breaking the Guinness Book World Record for Most Residential Pounds Collected in One Week. He liked being able to assist on some pickups and being able to see a different part of what we do as a company.

Ellis is a very active volunteer within his church. When he’s not volunteering, his three sons keep him busy with their sporting events. He also enjoys watching sports, mainly baseball; he is a Texas Rangers fan. Ellis is currently pursuing a degree in Sports Science from the United States Sports Academy. He served in the Marine Corps for 23 and retired with the rank of Master Sergeant. Ellis even has an English Bulldog named Maggie to represent the Marine Corps since the Bulldog is their mascot.

Nick Lee is our Business Development Manager at our Birmingham, AL site. As a BDM, Nick manages the business accounts that the Birmingham site has. He has only been at ATR for a year and a half but has made great progress in our business! Nick said that he enjoys working with his clients and building strong business relationships.

When he’s not at work, Nick likes to catch up with friends and try out new restaurants. He also enjoys hiking, traveling and gardening. Nick attended University of Alabama, where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing. An interesting fact about him is that he was born and raised in Alabama but does NOT like grits. Nick is a very hard worker and ATR really enjoys having him be a part of our team!

Daniel Kleeman is the Administrative Assistant/Warehouse Worker at our Peoria, IL site. Daniel has been at ATR for just slightly over a year. He said that he really enjoyed meeting all of the other employees at our Christmas party last year, and that it was a good chance to get to know everyone in a more relaxed setting.

When he’s not at work, Daniel likes to practice his many hobbies, such as playing computer games, reading up on politics, writing or practicing his archery. He has two dogs named Skippy and Squirt. Daniel is very proud to be the seventh son of a World War II veteran, Hubert Kleeman. Also, he attended Illinois State University, and graduated with an English degree.

Melissa Cruz is our Business Development Assistant/Human Resources Assistant at our Pontiac, IL location. She began working at ATR back in September of 2014. Melissa said that she likes learning about the Electronic Business, and working with a great group of individuals. She is proud to work for a company that takes our environment so serious and makes it a better place for our children to live.

Outside of work, Melissa likes to watch NASCAR races and regularly attends the stock car races at the Fairbury American Legion Speedway. When she’s not watching racing, Melissa likes to garden, cook, cross stitch and read. She recently moved back up to Illinois from Texas so she is trying to spend a lot of time with family to make up for lost time. She has two wonderful children, and hopes that one day they will also be able to move to Illinois from Texas. Melissa served 5 and a half years in the US Army, and has a BBA in Healthcare Management and went to AIU based out of Hoffman Estates, Illinois.

Tiffany Houseman is our Administrative Assistant at our Grand Rapids, MI facility. She joined the ATR team last April. Tiffany enjoys working at ATR because she said everyday is a new adventure, a new learning experience, and a new opportunity for growth!

Outside of work, Tiffany loves to go to rodeos, go horseback riding and spend time with her three children. An interesting fact about Tiffany is that she graduated from high school with a class of 5 people; 4 of them had gone to school together from Kindergarten through 12^th grade. Tiffany will be participating in the Out of the Darkness Walk in Grand Rapids with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in honor of her brother who passed away. She attended Kalamazoo Valley Community College, where she got her Associates Degree in Psychology and completed a semester at Western Michigan University. Tiffany has quite the array of animals; she has a mare Paint horse, Shepherd/Lab mix dog and a rabbit. Tiffany is a very hard worker and ATR is happy to have her!

Jason Lewis is one of our very hard working Warehouse members. He started working at ATR 10 months ago with his two brothers, Eric and Ryan. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family. He has two daughters who are 9 and 12 and two dogs named Nick and Coco. Jason also hunts fishes and cheers on the Dallas Cowboys.

Jeremy Fracaro is a Wholesale Specialist at the Pontiac, IL Corporate location. He began his career with ATR back in September of 2014 as a Warehouse worker, but quickly switched departments and went into Asset Recovery. Now that he is a Wholesale Specialist, Jeremy is able to sell items that we receive in bulk quantities. This is a very important part of our business since we are an Asset Recovery company! Jeremy said that he really enjoys our Christmas parties, because he thinks it’s a fantastic way to show appreciation for all the hard work that everyone does throughout the year!

In the evenings, Jeremy plays on a slow pitch softball league, and likes to go four wheeling on the weekends. He is also a self proclaimed fantasy football expert and participates in a league with a few others from ATR. He is the new proud owner of a bunny named Felicia, which his girlfriend randomly brought home one day!

Thank you Jeremy for all of the time and effort that you put in to making ATR such a success!

Ashlyn Layton is the Office/Warehouse support at our Birmingham, AL facility. She does everything from processing equipment in the warehouse to taking care of the Administrative responsibilities in the office. Ashlyn began her career with ATR back in September of 2014. In such a short time she has helped the Birmingham office become very successful! In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family. She also enjoys photography and reading books. Ashlyn received her degree in Criminal Justice from ITT Technical Institute. She also has a Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Wall-e! Thank you Ashlyn for all of your hard work!

Jeremy VanDyke is the Asset Recovery Specialist at our Grand Rapids site. He has worked with ATR for about a year now. He said that he enjoys fixing our vintage arcade/gaming and audio systems that we receive to sell. When he’s not selling or fixing equipment at ATR he enjoys reading books and traveling around Michigan with his wife. Also, he has traveled through 5 countries! Sometimes he will spend time at the shooting range with his friends or go fishing with his family. Jeremy attended college at Grand Rapids Community College for electrical.

Elise Comens became the new Receptionist at our Pontiac, IL location back in February of 2015. She said that she loves learning new things and so far every day at ATR has been a learning experience! And that everyone has been super nice and helpful about explaining new things! Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her son; they like to play games, watch movies and read books together. They’re waiting for the weather to warm up to be able to play outside and go camping! She also enjoys baking, reading and making tie-dye!

Dan Hendershott is the Site Supervisor at our Peoria, IL location. He has been a part of ATR for almost 6 years now! He started as one of the warehouse workers and then became the Warehouse Team Lead at the Pontiac location before transferring to the Peoria site. Dan is a big Chicago Cubs fan so he said that he really enjoys when Ken and Barb give tickets out for the home games to their employees. He also said that he tries to watch every Cubs game that he can in his spare time.

Craig Carpenter has been picked to be the ATR Employee in the Spotlight for the month of March! He joined our team to work in our warehouse at our new Buffalo, NY location, but he’s a jack of all trades. Since starting at ATR back in October of 2014 he has set up and organized the warehouse, built our secure cage area, set up the hard drive wiping station, installed cameras, repaired company vehicles and inventoried items into our database. When asked what he has really enjoyed about ATR so far Craig said that he really liked meeting the owners, Ken and Barb at the New York Christmas party!

In his life outside of ATR Craig is happily married to his wife, Lynnette for 25 years. He has a daughter named Aimee and just found out the he will be a grandfather in August! While growing up Craig would help his father with electrical work and fix up cars. Right now he’s working on repairing a 1959 Chevy pickup. He was in the Air Force and trained as an Avionic Sensor System Specialist where he worked on cameras and radar systems for F-4 Phantom reconnaissance jets. He also completed the Supervisory Studies program at Cornell and has a welding certificate. He has three cats Dale, named after Dale Earnhardt, Neville, named after Neville Longbottom and Sneakers. Craig is a very hard worker and ATR really enjoys having him as a part of our team!

Nadia Aguirre is the Asset Recovery Coordinator at our San Antonio site. She has been a part of our team since May of 2013! She really enjoys helping the guys around the warehouse. When she’s not at work she spends a lot of time with her family. Her hobbies are reading, watching sports, going to the gym and playing computer/video games. And she attended San Antonio College. Nadia helps make ATR successful everyday!

Jay Dronenberg is the Computer Technician at the Pontiac, IL site. He began his career with ATR back in April 2014. He enjoys being able to take computers apart and being able to build new ones.

Even in his spare time Jay has a computer repair business and is studying to become A+ certified. He also likes to go fishing, ride four wheelers and help out on his family’s farm. On the weekends in the summertime he watches his dad drag race his ’72 Nova. Last September Jay and his girlfriend adopted a Boxer mix puppy named Marley from the local humane society. Jay said that his favorite moment at ATR was the employee appreciation picnic that was held over the summer.

Heather Long is the Team Lead at our Birmingham, AL location. She has been with the company since February 2014 and was hired on as the office/warehouse support but became the Team Lead in September. She enjoys being able to educate people on the hows/whys of recycling, the impact on the environment, why we do things a certain way, how different elements can affect the environment and people.

When she’s not at work, Heather really likes to read. Typically she can finish two books a week. In December she will celebrate her 8 year wedding anniversary with her husband who she met when she was in the Navy and she has a 4 year old son. She married into Alabama football, Roll Tide! But attended Oklahoma State University and Coastline Community College and has a degree in Business Administration. She also has a Miniature Schnauzer named Tucker and a fish named Rocco.

Peggy Walkley is the Administrative Assistant for our Grand Rapids, MI branch. She started with ATR back in June. When asked what Peggy likes about ATR she said that she would definitely not call her job boring, there’s always something new going on. She also likes working with intelligent people who are easy to get along with and can make her laugh!

When she’s not at work, Peggy likes reading and watching movies/TV shows about Science Fiction and Fantasy and gaming. Some interesting facts about her are that she was in the Army Reserves and was adopted. Peggy has three cats named Jewel, Rocky and Cory. She is currently in her last quarter at ITT Technical Institute for her Associates in Network Systems Administration. After she gets that she plans to continue at ITT for a Bachelors in Information Security.

Jashad Bishop works at the San Antonio, TX location as a driver/warehouse worker. He started with the company back in July of 2013. His coworker, Maria Prindle calls him the King of Dis-assembly; she said that he can take anything apart! Bishop is a writer and enjoys writing poems about his son Zion. When he’s not working, he likes to shop and work out to stay fit. He is a track scholar and attended college in Austin at HBCU. Bishop said that he likes when ATR has company get together s like the Christmas party because it shows employee appreciation.

Annie Harpenau is the Asset Recovery eCommerce Specialist. She handles the eBay and Amazon sales, Employee Buyback program, Small Wholesale, Donations, the online Retail store, ATR Auction, some social networking and developed the program for selling laptops in Habitat Restores. In November Annie will have been working at ATR for 4 years. Annie really enjoys doing the Employee Buyback program and working with the Habitat for Humanity Restores. Her favorite experience with ATR is definitely the annual Christmas party!

In her spare time Annie does different crafts. She upcycles vintage wood pieces, builds dollhouses and makes shelves. She has built quite the collection of pink tools for her projects, even her drill is pink! Her dad and brother built Annie’s low-rider pickup truck that she plans to paint green. She holds an Associate’s Degree from Heartland Community College, where she studied Accounting and Psychology. She has two cats and two children, Noah and Tristan who are 6 and 8. Annie is getting married October 31, 2015 and having a Halloween themed wedding!

Maria Prindle is the San Antonio Site Supervisor. She has been a part of the ATR team since January 25, 2013. Maria started out working at our Grand Rapids, MI facility but took the opportunity to express her strength as a leader when San Antonio was looking for a manager and someone with computer experience. Plus she wanted to take advantage of the warmer climate! She said that her favorite part of working at ATR is teaching her team new things, she likes to see them enjoy learning new tasks. Personally, Maria likes to work on and fix electronics.

In her spare time, Maria likes to fish and watch sports. Although she no longer lives in Michigan she remains a fan of the Detroit Tigers. She loves the San Antonio Spurs and believes that they took the championship this year because she is now a resident! Maria considers herself to be a Sci-Fi junkie, even naming her two cats Luke and Leigha. She is a mother of 4 and grandmother to 8 beautiful grandchildren. In June her son welcomed a baby boy named Emmet and in September she will be getting another granddaughter. Maria attended Grand Rapids Community College and graduated top of her class in Computer Support Technology. Maria said “I like working for ATR, they care for the health and safety of their employees as well as keeping us happy.”

Laurie Benningfield joined the ATR team back in August 2012. She was hired on as the receptionist and 9 months later became a Logistics Coordinator. She helps schedule trucks in and out of all of our facilities. You can also find her helping out around the office whenever needed, doing database work or helping make ATR a safer workplace by contributing to our Safety Committee.

Before coming to ATR Laurie managed a restaurant and worked with special needs students at her local high school. In July Laurie and her husband will celebrate their 17^th wedding anniversary. She has a daughter who will be attending Emmaus Bible College this fall and a son who will be a sophomore in high school and a 3 year old Pug named Frankie. Laurie is a very active member in her church, New Beginnings Christian Fellowship. She helps with secretarial/database work, as well as helping organize the Summer Sports Camp. Her favorite sports teams are the Bears, Cubs and she likes NASCAR. In her spare time she enjoys reading, fishing, gardening and spending time with her family.