Employee Spotlight: Cliff Williams

Cliff’s rise through the ranks of Quincy Recycle is a tale of dedication; a lesson in the American Dream. He started at Quincy Recycle in 2010 at an entry level, and steadily worked his way up to 3rd shift supervisor.

His heart and humor are evident the second you speak with him, and his easy-going nature somehow perfectly compliments his dedication to his meticulous enforcement of safety standards.

We know his team is better off because of him, and we left this interview with a renewed vigor to never stop trying and striving for improvement.

1. When did you start with Quincy Recycle? Was your job title the same as it is now?

I believe I started in 2010 as a general employee. I started on Gaylords, moved up to bales, then became a master rail car loader, and now I’m 3rd shift supervisor…I pretty much can do it all.

2. If you had to pick one, which Core Value is your favorite? Why?

That’s easy; Alive & Well. I literally say a prayer for my crew every night, you know. Safety is first. It’s hard for me [a third shifter] to even sleep, I have to force myself to maybe get 5 or 6 hours of sleep. You want to make sure everyone is paying attention, is wearing their safety glasses, make sure the drivers’ loads aren’t too high, all of that.

3. What was the most challenging thing to learn in your role as shift supervisor ?

I’d probably have to say training new employees on different positions; that can be kind of tough. Where do I put them? On Gaylords? The machines? The docks? At a recycle plant, things change a lot- one minute this is how we do it. Next quarter we may be doing it differently, so definitely training is very challenging. Nothing is written in stone.

4. What was the most surprising/ fun thing to learn?

I really liked when I learned how to load a rail car. It was sort of like a puzzle. I also like learning new vendors- usually when they come in I’m the one unloading, and I like trying new things.

5. What’s your favorite part about working at Quincy Recycle?

I’d have to say helping the environment.  We are keeping material out of landfills, and helping the world.

6. What would you like curious prospective employees to know about Quincy Recycle?

We really care about our employees, and we’re like a family here.

7. What are some of your hobbies you like to do outside of work?

I mean I’m always here working! But of course I like watching football, and spending time with my family and the grandkids.

8. Best piece of advice you’ve ever read or received?

Don’t stop trying! Listen and learn, and don’t stop trying.

9. If you had to pick a song to portray the essence/ culture of Quincy Recycle, what would it be?

“Eye of the Tiger”