OGC Applauds Not One, But Two Drivers of the Year
To say that OGC’s fleet of incredible drivers faced numerous challenges in 2020 would be an understatement. From safely working amongst the pandemic, efficiently transporting a record-breaking volume of produce, and navigating inclement weather, this team demonstrated that they are capable of rising to any challenge!
When it came time to recognize the 2020 Driver of the Year, OGC’s Transportation Manager, Stretch Halterman, embraced that “normality was out the window, and that change was the only constant in 2020!”
With that spirit in mind, and as a result of so many qualified nominees enthusiastically supported by coworkers, Stretch was pleased to recently announce not one but two coworkers tied for Driver of the Year.
Learn more about both of these exceptional OGC coworkers below, along with the recipient of the 2020 Rookie of the Year.
Driver of the Year: Simone Williams
Simone has been with OGC for four years, and in that time, has stepped up to cover a lot of different routes and accepted extra work to ensure our Des Moines facility ran smoothly. Simone is invaluable to the Transportation team as a trusted perspective on serving accounts best. He’s also gone out of his way to make sure deliveries are received on time. Simone always provides exceptional service to our partners and is a dedicated OGC coworker!
Driver of the Year: Brian Mankonski
Brian primarily covers our Seattle routes, and in his two years with OGC has stepped up to cover many additional routes as well. He is always willing to help out, take on additional workload, and ensure accounts have what they need. Brian treats OGC’s customers with great respect, and they love him for it. A fantastic ambassador to new coworkers, Brian has trained new hires and keeps in contact with them even after they’re fully ramped up! His pleasant demeanor makes Brian a joy to work with, and his dedication to the success of OGC and our partners is evident.
Rookie of the Year: Dan Kuhn
For the past 11 months, Dan has proven himself a dedicated van route driver in the Portland area. This is Dan’s second role with OGC, previously filling an Operations position at our Gresham facility. Dan has proven himself over and over as a coworker that is completely dedicated to the customer, ensuring that they have the product they need to be successful. Dan’s enthusiasm and willingness to help are definitely noticed by all!
Hats off to Simone, Brian and Dan, along with the rest of OGC’s Transportation Department! This team is integral to Bringing Organic Produce to the People, and their hard work, care and literal “going the extra mile” are appreciated!