Eric Gray is the Traffic Coordinator in Marseilles, IL.

Eric, formerly a bartender from Ottawa, IL., decided to look into job opportunities and found out about Infra-Metals through a family friend. An interview was scheduled with the operations manager and he was hired to work as a crane operator on 2nd shift in 2006. Eric notes that his training was kind of touch and go in those days, yet he learned how to master the cranes and keep up with the fast paced environment of loading trucks and getting them out the door. Fast-forward to 2015 where Eric applied to be 2nd shift supervisor. There we several applicants at the time but Eric ended up landing the spot.

“I liked the challenge. I have good relationships with the shift guys and feel like there was a strong camaraderie that was formed with a lot of them.”

Eric worked closely with operations, traffic and even sales to ensure loads were completed and ready for delivery. He would find himself filling in for the processing supervisor which allowed him to learn the software system better. Many of these skills would ultimately help prepare him for his next role.

Career Growth

In January of 2018, Eric became the 2nd shift traffic coordinator. Working in the traffic department interacts with almost every department and is often times the busiest office during the work day. “I was at that point that I wanted a new challenge.”

In the traffic department, the workload changes daily from scheduling picks in the shop, to working with sales, to routing and delivery logistics. “Every day is different. When I walk through the door, the day always has something new to offer. I review the board and piece the puzzle together for that day’s deliveries.” He also handles the driver staff and ensures their routes are optimized for on-time delivery. Since his early days in the shop, Eric has seen a lot of growth at the Central Division, most notably the emphasis on safety.

“Everyone works together towards the same goals. We’re all moving together in the same direction.”

Hobbies

Eric enjoys running. He has competed in 3 full marathons, 8 half marathons and a spartan race. He is also a season ticket holder for the Chicago Bears. When not competing in marathons, running or rooting for the Monsters of the Midway, he cheers on his kids at their sporting events and band concerts.

 

Eric continues to keep his sights on the future and one day aspires to fulfill a management role at Infra-Metals. Congratulations Eric on a long career with us! You have been an integral part of the team and continue to add to the success of the Central Division and Infra-Metals as a whole!