Employee Spotlight: Abby Shields
Asking Justin Routh, our GM in St. Louis, about Abby Shields quickly turns into a list of positive qualities.
- She does anything and everything she can to add value.
- She looks for more ways to help.
- She takes action without being asked.
- She speaks up and challenges when needed.
- She puts the needs of the team before her own.
It’s clear why Justin and the rest of her Quincy Recycle coworkers believe that Abby exemplifies One Team. One Dream. One Family. Abby is a key team member who consistently makes those around her better.
When did you start with Quincy Recycle?
August 2017
What was your job title when you started?
Outbound ALC
What is your current title?
Inbound ALC
If you had to pick one, which Core Value is your favorite and why?
Listen up, be inquisitive, & keep an open mind. If you talk to anyone that knows me, they might think this choice is hilarious because I can be set in my ways. However, I love we are encouraged to ask questions to help understand the business better. Our customer’s needs are ever changing, so if we continuously ask questions and keep an ear to the ground, we’ll always be able to help present a new solution.
What was the most challenging thing to learn in your roles?
Honestly, everything. I came from a retail setting, so learning the different commodities and the ins and outs of the logistics side of things, it was overwhelming. I was certain everyone was speaking a different language for a while. There are so many abbreviations to catch onto. I had to learn to be ok with asking lots of questions and making mistakes.
What was the most surprising or fun thing to learn?
Learning what each of our customers produce with the material we send them is one of my favorite things. Especially when we start talking about the different quality specs each mill has. You never really think about all the different layers of a cardboard box until you’re shipping to different mills each with different standards for the material they receive because one’s making the outer layer and the other is making the inner layer that no one will see.
What’s your favorite part about working at Quincy Recycle?
The people. I get to interact with so many different characters each day both inside and outside the organization. Our group here in St. Louis has created a really great environment to work in. We are constantly laughing and joking around with each other. Everyone’s always working together to make sure our customers and vendors are happy. We’re also in constant pursuit of our next group Halloween costume. If anyone has a suggestion, please send it my way.
What would you like prospective employees to know about Quincy Recycle?
It sounds gimmicky, but we are really one team and one big family. Everyone in the organization is here to help you whenever you need it. There are so many great people here with a wealth of knowledge they’re happy to share. I’m very lucky to work for a company that encourages you to grow and helps you achieve goals. I enjoy coming to work each day. What more could you ask for?
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
I recently started taking Pilates classes, so I’m very into that right now. I’m a Millennial dog parent, so I’m always looking for fun things to do with and for my dog Luciille. I enjoy exploring my neighborhood, finding new restaurants, baking, and reading. I’m starting to get more into gardening to help create a little backyard oasis. While I do reside in St. Louis (boring), I’m a huge Chicago Cubs fan and enjoy joining my fellow Bleacher Bums at Wrigley whenever possible.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever read or received?
When things start to get tough, don’t give up. Just make adjustments. “Be a Goldfish.” – Ted Lasso
