For these qualities and more, she has earned recognition as Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month for December.

Tami works in Houston’s UPC room, where products are repackaged, relabeled, and broken down into different selling units. These processes can provide value for Houston’s and our customers in meaningful ways.

As an example, a certain type of beverage glass may come from the vendor packaged in a master case of three dozen. The UPC room may break the master case down into packs of one dozen, to offer an option for our customers who may not want or need three dozen glasses at one time.

“Tami has done an amazing job at balancing the workload in the UPC area with the resources that she has available,” said Brenda Hart, Receiving Supervisor. “She does a great job at facilitating projects for other team members.”

For the month, Tami earned a 4.71 rating on the SPARQ Wall. Brenda noted that Tami achieved a high volume of productivity while maintaining a high accuracy rate, as well.

She’s also willing and able to take on tasks outside her regular slate of UPC duties. As a team player, she has also been available to pull orders when needed over the past month.

“Tami is eager to learn, and takes the opportunities to expand her knowledge of the company,” Brenda said.

It is evident that she is focused on team and company goals, and steps in to get the job done in a responsible and thoughtful way.

Outside of work, Tami loves spending time with her children and enjoys outdoor activities, especially outings on the river.

Congratulations Tami! This recognition is well deserved.

Runners up for the month include Cesar Correa (First Runner Up) and Jose Samuel Vazquez (Second Runner Up).

Read more about our recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post December Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Tami Hiyasat appeared first on Houston's Blog.

For his dedication to teamwork, flexibility, and responsibility, Izzy has earned recognition as the Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month for November.

Over the past month, Izzy earned a 4.80 rating on the SPARQ Wall. Highlighting the “Q” component of SPARQ – Quality – Izzy recorded zero errors in Receiving and Auto Stocking for the month.

Taking on some Receiving Department tasks has been a recent transition for Izzy, in addition to his usual Auto Stocking work. With this shift in duties, he’s had an opportunity to display his flexibility and team-first mentality.

“In the month of October, he had the opportunity to learn the cycle count program and was a big help in getting our overflow locations counted,” said Brenda Hart, Receiving Supervisor.

Brenda also noted how Izzy’s team mindset complements his ability to be a responsible self-starter.

“He is a team player,” Brenda said. “He’s willing to help his fellow teammates without having to be asked to do so. He sees locations that need to be filled and will take it upon himself to stock them, so the pullers don’t have to wait for the product.”

Izzy’s willing attitude and flexibility have been common themes throughout transitions in workflow and team needs.

“He has been open minded about the opportunities of learning new processes,” Brenda said. “His knowledge of the product also allows him to provide good feedback when situations arise in the warehouse.”

Outside of work, Izzy enjoys watching college football. He can often be seen around the Wilsonville Warehouse sporting Oregon Ducks gear.

Congratulations on this recognition, Izzy! It is well deserved.

Runners up for the month include Jose Cornelio (First Runner Up) and Julio Gutierrez (Second Runner Up).

Read about our other recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post November Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Izzy Ortiz appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Through this past month, Eugene has a been one of the top performers in the receiving department, recording a 4.91 rating on the SPARQ wall. With a strong attention to accuracy, he also logged zero errors for the month.

Eugene is not only known for his productivity and attention to detail – he is also a team player, willing to adapt to adjustments in workload and team procedures.

Last quarter, some changes were implemented in the warehouse for how job duties are handled by forklift drivers.

“In recent months we have changed the structure of the tasks that the overflow drivers perform,” said Brenda Hart, Receiving Supervisor. “Eugene has embraced the change and has been open minded about the opportunities that the changes have provided to him.”

It’s evident that Eugene’s willingness and flexibility are attributes that are noticed and appreciated by the warehouse supervisors and leadership team.

“He has approached the transition from performing auto stocking-only, to being part of the receiving team open-mindedly and has taken the opportunity to gain experience and knowledge in the warehouse,” Brenda said. “He will contribute where needed to ensure that the customers’ needs are met.”

Eugene certainly embodies Houston’s Core Values of recognizing opportunity in challenges, and embracing positive change.

Outside of work Eugene enjoys gaming and flying his drones. He also enjoys making trips to Las Vegas.

Congratulations, Eugene! This recognition is well-earned.

Runners up for the month include Ross Orsborn (First Runner Up) and Jose G. Vazquez (Second Runner Up).

Read more about recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post October Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Eugene Apuya appeared first on Houston's Blog.

For his hard work and dedication, he has earned recognition as Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month for September.

On the month’s SPARQ Wall, Jose Samuel recorded 5-star ratings in Receiving Productivity and Receiving Quality ­– in other words, he does a lot of good work, and does it well, ensuring accuracy and reducing errors to a minimum.

It’s evident that Jose Samuel performs his duties with skill and attention to detail, as well. He has established a benchmark of consistency, which has been noticed by the warehouse managers and supervisors.

Over the past several months, Jose Samuel has earned Runner Up or Second Runner Up for Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month in the recent months of May, June, and August.

Though it’s clear he frequently stands out for his strong individual output, it is also noted that Jose Samuel is a team player, willing to do whatever is required for the best workflow of the team.

“He works well with his co-workers,” said Brenda Hart, Receiving Supervisor. “He has the flexibility and willingness to do what is needed.”

In addition to daily receiving responsibilities, Jose Samuel will often unload full truckloads that arrive early for their appointments. Brenda has observed that he will also help cover auto-stocking when needed for Swing Shift.

With a mindset of teamwork and growth, Jose Samuel is adept at taking opportunities to contribute toward department and company goals.

Outside of work, Jose Samuel enjoys watching zombie movies, playing video games, and spending time with his family.

Congratulations Jose Samuel, this recognition is well-deserved!

Runners up for the month are Cesar Correa (First Runner Up) and Julio Gutierrez (Second Runner Up).

Read about our other recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post September Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Jose Samuel Vazquez appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Making a stand-out impact this past month, for his hard work and diligence he has been recognized as the Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month for August.

Earning a 5-star rating on the SPARQ wall, Eduardo attained top numbers in the categories of Safety, Productivity, Attendance, Responsibility, and Quality.

Speaking to his penchant for quality, Eduardo’s attention to detail resulted in zero picking errors and zero receiving errors for the month.

According to Receiving Supervisor Brenda Hart, Eduardo is also highly self-motivated and takes initiative to assess what work needs to be done.

“Eduardo will often see a task that needs attention and ask to help,” said Brenda. “A lot of time this is the RGAs (return authorizations) that are needing attention.”

“By him taking on this task, it allows our customers to receive their credits in a timely manner,” Brenda added.

In addition to helping to ensure our customers’ needs are met, Eduardo is also adept at creating connections with vendors and fellow team members alike.

“He has good relationships with his coworkers and with the drivers that deliver product to the warehouse,” Brenda said.

Outside of work, Eduardo is a fan of soccer and enjoys spending time with his wife and children.

Congratulations Eduardo, this recognition is well earned.

Runners up for the month include Jose Samuel Vazquez (First Runner Up) and Yermey Vega (Second Runner Up).

Read about our other recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post August Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Eduardo Reyes appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Dagoberto’s dedication can be seen through his high level of productivity while pulling orders – an attribute he has been known for throughout his tenure with Houston’s.

“Dago has always been one of Houston’s top pullers, setting towards the top of the chart,” said Melvin Swartz, Weekend Supervisor.

Not only is Dago relied upon for productivity, he is also known for his versatility, and can fill in wherever needed.

“He knows all order pulling: CHEF’STOREs to transfers and everything in between,” Melvin said. “He can jump on the hot list and get overflows if we need him to, and he is also trained in receiving.”

Dago’s experience with Houston’s is a major factor in his ability to cover multiple roles. As Melvin noted, Dago has risen to the challenge to learn everything from order pulling to receiving, and his willingness to be a team player goes beyond the skills he has developed.

It is evident that Dago is a hard worker, and has earned the trust of his coworkers by going the extra mile to help when called upon.

Outside of work, Dagoberto enjoys spending time with his family, and taking part in outdoor activities like walking and running.

Congratulations, Dago – this recognition is well deserved.

Runners up for the month include Jose Lopez (First Runner Up) and Jose G. Vazquez (Second Runner Up).

Read more about our recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post July Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Dago Gutierrez appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Joining Houston’s in the year 2000, Alex will be celebrating her 23rd anniversary with the company in August of this year.

Since that time, Alex has developed a skillset that allows her to work nearly every department within warehouse operations. Her familiarity performing numerous roles in the warehouse is certainly an asset to the team.

“She is very versatile in all aspects of the warehouse and can fill in where needed,” said Brenda Hart, Receiving Supervisor. “She takes pride in all that she does – and that shows in her work.”

Her versatility is also displayed through adapting to change. Alex started at Houston’s at a time when everything was done on paper. She has been a part of the business evolution from paper-based operations to the automated systems used today.

One of Alex’s other stand-out skills is her ability and willingness to lend a hand to any fellow team member at any time.

“No matter what she is doing, or how busy she is, she is available,” said Brenda. “Alex is great at making connections with her coworkers, whether they are new employees or long-standing members of the team.”

It’s evident that Alex’s willingness to go above and beyond not only results in completed tasks, it also results in the earned trust of those she works with.

Outside of work, Alex enjoys spending time with family, and loves every chance she gets to see her grandchildren.

Congratulations, Alex – this recognition is well-earned.

Runners up for the month include Jubenal Romero (First Runner Up) and Jose S. Vazquez (Second Runner Up).

Read more about our other recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post May Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Alex Villarreal appeared first on Houston's Blog.

For these attributes and others, Cesar has been recognized as Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month for April.

While Cesar’s main role involves Inventory Control, he is well-versed in many of the other duties within Houston’s warehouse operations.

“With Cesar’s experience throughout the whole company, he can help in every aspect of the warehouse,” said Brenda Hart, Receiving Supervisor. “He always has a positive outlook when he is asked to change tasks.”

Cesar’s adaptability and willingness to grow into new roles and skills has been an asset to Houston’s operations as a whole. In fact, his versatility and upbeat personality bolster the overall atmosphere of growth and development highlighted in Houston’s Mission Statement and observed throughout the warehouse.

“Cesar has stepped up to help receive put-away this month and has done this without having to be asked,” Brenda said. “He helped with coverage on tasks, so that I was able to attend a class.”

This mindset of going above and beyond his normal slate of duties shows how Cesar maintains great connections with his colleagues on the team.

“Cesar has a great connection with all his coworkers throughout the company,” said Brenda. “This last month there have been some changes that we made with a vendor’s lot code and Cesar jumped in and took on the project with no hesitation.”

His proactive mentality helps multiple departments to get on the same page, ensuring success through changes like these. Just as with the transition from paper-based operations 20 years ago to the automation used today, Cesar has continually shown a willingness to adapt and embrace the evolution of Houston’s.

Outside of work, Cesar enjoys basketball, running, and playing video games when not taking part in his active hobbies.

Congratulations on this recognition Cesar – it is well deserved!

Runners up for the month are Julio Gutierrez (First Runner Up) and Tami Hiyasat (Second Runner Up).

Read about our other recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post April Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Cesar Correa appeared first on Houston's Blog.

It was a productive month for Shane, picking orders with a rate of 124 units per hour, which ranked second highest on Houston’s weekend crew. In a display of his versatility and willingness to help the team, Shane was also recently certified as a forklift operator.

“Shane often makes suggestions in our warehouse meetings to improve the workflow,” said Warehouse Manager Greg Jones. “He often looks at challenges as opportunities for growth, both for himself and for his team.”

Shane has also been assisting Houston’s IT Department with various projects. He played a valuable role in moving and setting up workstations for the Wilsonville Office move back in November and December.

This past month, Shane was key in helping IT with tasks related to setting up the new Human Resources office workspace, newly constructed above the existing warehouse offices. It’s evident that Shane has the willingness to offer assistance in making improvements, wherever needed.

In addition to going above and beyond to help departments outside the warehouse, Shane also stepped up within his own team, too.

Shane receives his certificate from Director of Warehouse Operations Mike Buddrius and President Rebecca Phillips

“Shane was recently promoted to our weekend lead, and he filled in for the weekend supervisor on his own recently,” Greg said. “Shane handled the role with confidence and got everything done as needed.”

Outside of work, Shane enjoys active pastimes such as swimming and martial arts, as well as playing video games, too. His dedication and growth mindset extend outside of the workplace as well; Shane has achieved a 4th degree Black Belt in Taekwondo.

Congratulations, Shane – this recognition is well-deserved!

Runners up for the month are Jesus Ayala (First Runner Up) and Abel Gonzalez (Second Runner Up).

Read about our other recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post March Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Shane Putnam appeared first on Houston's Blog.

Jose’s team-first mindset was on full display at the start of January, when he stepped up to cross-train and perform tasks above and beyond his normal slate of duties. With a number of team members out for vacations, Jose’s flexibility had a big impact.

“Jose spent the first two weeks (of the month) in Receiving cross-training to receive POs and truck unloading,” said Angie Buffetta, Cash & Carry Supervisor. “He really played a huge role and went the extra mile to keep the department running smooth.”

The cross-training in Receiving must have felt like a bit of a role-reversal for Jose, who is one of the team members frequently called upon to train others on pulling orders.

With his consistent productivity, high degree of the accuracy, and dedication to safe operation of his equipment, Jose sets a good example for others on the team. It’s a good display of his most valuable attributes.

“His hard work and constant dedication to the company are an asset to the team,” Angie said.

It’s also a banner example of the growth Jose has achieved since he first came aboard with Houston’s in August of 2013.

“When Jose first started with the company, he wasn’t as familiar with the layout of our system or truck loading,” Angie said. “He is now very experienced with all of this so well, which is why we often ask him to train new hires.”

Always willing to step up, help out, and learn something new, Jose Vazquez is a valued member of the Wilsonville Warehouse team. Congratulations, Jose! This recognition is well deserved.

Runners up for the month include Eduardo Reyes (First Runner Up) and Alex Villarreal (Second Runner Up).

Read more about our other recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.

The post February Wilsonville Warehouse Employee of the Month: Jose Vazquez appeared first on Houston's Blog.