Faces of JBC: Alex Williams
Welcome to the latest edition of Faces of JBC, the blog series where we take a moment to shine the spotlight on the people that work hard every day to help make us a success. Last time we introduced you to one of our amazing floor supervisors, Cassie Caputo. Today, we're continuing our walk around the production floor, but this time we're going one step further in our value chain, right to one of our very talented "makers".
Ladies and gentlemen, may we introduce you to our featured JBC team member, Alex Williams. Alex is a first shift rotary die-cutting machine operator and, yes, he's yet another reason JBC's customers can't stop telling their colleagues how great we are. Now, why don't we get to know a little more about Alex.
What is your current position at JBC?
I'm a Delta/Pace rotary die-cutting machine operator
What did you do before joining JBC?
I actually worked at JBC from 2007 to 2011, but decided to leave to pursue some other opportunities. The last job I had before coming back to JBC a few years ago was Lead Receiver at the Heinen’s in Avon. I was in charge of the receipt and inventory management of all product coming through the doors – deli, bakery, beverages – I also handled the merchandising and display set-up for their large vendors
You mentioned that you left JBC back in 2011. What made you want to come back?
I learned a lot from my previous position, but retail wasn’t all that great a fit with my personality. That and I remembered how much I liked running the rotary machines and how much I enjoyed the smaller team environment and close-knit culture. It just works better for me all around.
How long have you been with JBC?
Counting my first tour, I’ve been with JBC a total of about 6 years now.
Looking back on those 6 years, What have you enjoyed most about working at JBC?
There are quite a few things that I really like about working here. The people I get to work with are great- a real supportive team - and I love being able to come in and just focus on my machine and my job. Running the pace machines is challenging, too, and I enjoy working hard to hit and exceed my numbers - to challenge myself. I’m really good at it and I enjoy it. The hours are great, too. I like the flexibility of a 4-day work week.
What do with your free time?
Free time isn’t exactly something I get a lot of these days. I have three kids – two sons, 7 and 4 years old and a 5-year-old daughter – and they keep me pretty busy. I love spending as much time as I can with them as I can, though. I’m also an online gamer and metal guitarist, so if I get the chance you might find me doing those things, too.
What motivates you?
Basically, I want to be the best at whatever I’m doing, including my job. When I come into work my goal is zero rejections. I want to run my machine faster than anyone else with the highest quality output that I can. I’m always challenging myself to improve, pushing my own performance.
What could you give a 30-minute presentation about with no preparation?
Definitely music and playing guitar. I’ve been playing the guitar since I was 11 years old and I’ve been in several different heavy metal bands over the years. I could probably talk video games too, but if I had to pick just one then I’d go with guitar.
What was the last movie you saw?
Wow, it’s been so long. I think me and my girlfriend went to see Frozen when that was out, back in 2013 or something like that.
How do you describe what you do here at JBC to your family and friends?
I tell them that I make small parts that go into other things.
What energizes you at work?
Getting a hot job that has to go out and getting it done ahead of schedule.
If there was one song you never had to hear again, what would it be?
Don't Stop Believin' by Journey
What’s your favorite season?
Fall
What was your first job?
When I was 16 I got a job as a dishwasher at Houlihan’s in Westlake.