Position: Fabrication Tech 1 - Glass Department
Length of service: 3 years and 6 months
Location: Macon, GA (USA)
What do you enjoy most about working for YKK AP America Inc.?
I enjoy the people I work with, and I enjoy doing my job on the Intercept line.
At YKK AP we pay special attention to relationships. Why is this important to you?
Paying special attention to relationships is important to me because by doing so you can help to keep conflict down and to prevent harassment and discrimination at work.
What advice would you give someone starting their career at YKK AP America Inc.?
My advice to someone who is starting their career at YKK AP would be get to know your co-workers. We have great friendly people working at YKK AP, which makes it a great place to work.
What have you learned about yourself since starting to work for YKK AP America Inc.?
I have met a lot of different people over the years, and this has taught me how to work with different personalities.
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
Viva Las Vegas! I want to gamble a little bit and have some fun.
Greg Findlay
Position: Production supervisor
Tenure: 1.6 years current role, 6.5 years total years at Erie AP
Location: Lakeshore, ON (Canada)
What do you enjoy most about working at Erie AP?
I really like the training and continuous improvement opportunities that Erie AP has inspired within our facility.
I also like the Erie AP directive to drive a safety culture within our staff, as it has helped with training and awareness.
At Erie AP we pay special attention to relationships. Why is this important to you?
It’s very important to develop strong, lasting relationships in business so that all parties involved feel a sense of belonging and take ownership of the daily routines at work.
What advice would you give someone starting their career at Erie AP?
The advice I would give someone comes from how I became successful in my role at Erie AP. I would simply tell that person to be as diverse as possible by educating themself with as many areas in the facility and by developing relationships along the way so that they can build a team which will help drive success for everyone.
What have you learned about yourself since starting to work for Erie AP?
I’ve learned that a 9-5 job at Erie AP is not just a job. Erie AP is a company where you can develop a long-lasting career, and when you take pride in your work you can benefit professionally and personally.
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
I would love to travel to Tokyo, Japan because of their architecture and cultural heritage.
Position: Senior Customer Service Administrator
Length of service: 3 years and 2 months
Location: Greensboro, NC (USA)
What do you enjoy most about working at YKK AP America Inc.?
I work for a team that is open to identifying pain points and developing solutions to address them. More importantly I believe the team makes room at the table for multiple perspectives when crafting those solutions which makes for a collaborative and motivating work environment.
At YKK AP we pay special attention to relationships. Why is this important to you?
Maintaining strong relationships, whether in the office or with customers, instills trust and builds loyalty. When you advocate and look out for others, people are more likely to partner with you even if there are other options/opportunities to choose from because they know that you understand their needs and want them to succeed. This means not taking the easiest path, taking the time to pay attention to detail, and being honest even when it is difficult.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career at YKK AP America Inc.?
The learning curve can be steep at times. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or fear failure. Tackling the climb is how you learn, and there are many people within the organization eager to lend a hand.
What have you learned about yourself since starting to work for YKK AP America Inc.?
I’ve always considered myself to be a creative/free spirited type person. Since starting with YKK AP, I’ve learned that I have more technical skills at my disposal than I thought. It only took a few training courses and lots of support from my team to bring it to the surface!
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
The Amalfi Coast looks amazing: great food, beautiful views, and interesting history. I’d just need plenty of sunblock.
Nikki Barlow
Position: Lamination Operator
Tenure: 2 Years and 2 Months
Location: Macon, GA (USA)
How would you describe the culture at YKK/ Erie AP?
I would describe the company culture as positive. I like the people here because they are easy to work with. I have built strong friendships at work – honestly, I think I have more friends here than outside of work,
What does a typical day look like for you?
My typical day starts at 6:30 AM. I begin by setting up the laminating machine and running it until lunchtime. I have lunch every day with my co-worker, Tracey. My day is fairly easy because I can focus on one task at a time.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
This is the first job that I have had that I want to wake up and come to. But If I have to say, the most rewarding part is my paycheck and all the perks that come along with being an YKK AP employee.
Any other positive experiences that you would like to share that may help build the brand?
This is a great place to work, offering excellent opportunities for growth and advancement. I've been here for two years and have been promoted already due to my work ethics.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I have a Camo Belt in Tae Kwon Do. I practiced for two years while studying criminal justice.
Mary Jo Shaw
Position: Receptionist/Coordinator
Tenure: 2 Years and 4 Months
Location: Lakeshore, ON (Canada)
How would you describe the culture at YKK/Erie AP?
The culture at YKK/Erie AP is like family. Our company philosophy, the Cycle of Goodness, which says that “no one prospers without rendering benefit to others,” inspires us to show our coworkers that we care for one another.
It’s important to ask coworkers how they are doing and how their day is going. By asking a coworker how they are doing, you show them that someone cares enough to check in.
What does a typical day look like for you?
- At the start of my day, I check and enter attendance on the office and plant calendar. Employees can see the calendar at a glance.
- I prepare and organize events. I also coordinate customer visits with travel letters, book hotels and serve luncheons.
- I support HR with the orientation of new employees. I also let plant supervisors know when to give performance reviews to employees they manage, and I collect the reviews when they are completed.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is that I get to be a part of this culture. I get to make the employees’ day better by sharing good news and events.
Are there any other positive experiences that you would like to share that may help build the brand?
Positive experiences are important. The travel letter I write is a positive experience that helps our customers cross the border easier.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I love watching thoroughbred horse racing. I look at their pedigree, watch many stake races to collect data for each horse and pick my horse that has the best opportunity to win in the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is the first leg in the Triple Crown.
Position: Sr. Die Corrector
Length of service: 29 years 7 months
Location: Dublin, GA (USA)
How would you describe the culture at YKK/ Erie AP?
At YKK AP, we have a friendly work environment. We all work together to get the job done. When someone sees a fellow employee struggling, we will work together to get the job done. Your co-workers are always there to support.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day at YKK AP is always busy and consistent. You must stay focused on your job even when obstacles may arise.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
I love to help my fellow co-workers who are starting their career at YKK AP. I love to see their willingness to learn and develop.
Any other positive experiences that you would like to share that may help build the brand?
The advancement possibilities are endless at YKK AP. Advancement opportunities are available to anyone who is committed and willing to work hard.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I love to go antique shopping.
Keith Kimsey
Location: Residential – Macon, GA
Position: Lead person
Length of Service: 19 Years
What would you say it takes to be successful here at YKK AP America Inc.?
To be successful you must want to work, be dedicated, and have a lot of patience.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe YKK AP America Inc., and why?
Reputable: YKK AP America Inc. is a long-standing company, opening its first location in the 1980s.
What is your greatest accomplishment at YKK AP America Inc.?
It’s hard to say what my greatest accomplishment is because I am the first in my position, a pioneer if you would like to call it. But if I had to say anything, it would be mastering geometric concepts and being able to fulfill the demands of my unique and skilled position. It is a task-filled job; there is not another one like it.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Hot wings because I love hot wings with cold beer. Simple enough.
Describe YKK AP America Inc. in three words.
Stable, Flexible, and Proficient.
Jig Suthar
Location: Atlanta,GA (HQ)
Position: Product Portfolio Manager
Length of Service: 2 Years 7 Months
What would you say it takes to be successful here at YKK AP America Inc.?
I would say it requires a strong commitment to quality, innovation, collaboration, and consistently delivering solutions that meet both client needs and company goals.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe YKK AP America Inc., and why?
I would choose the word "precision" to describe YKK AP America Inc. because the company is known for its attention to detail, high-quality manufacturing standards, and innovative solutions in architectural products.
What is your greatest accomplishment at YKK AP America Inc.?
My greatest accomplishment as a Product Portfolio Manager at YKK AP America Inc. so far is having successfully introduced new products that met market demand, having improved sales requests to streamline products and solutions, and having identified the need for sustainability certificates to support our product strategies.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
My grandma's Chole Bhature—fluffy, golden fried flatbreads paired with her rich, flavorful chickpea curry—is an experience I’ve never found anywhere else in the world. There's something magical about the way she makes it. Every bite carries a warmth and depth that can’t be explained by just spices or ingredients. I know the secret isn't just the recipe; it’s the love she pours into every dish. It’s her special touch that makes it taste like home, a flavor that lingers in your heart long after the meal is over.
Describe YKK AP America Inc. in three words.
Quality, Innovation, and Reliability.
Location: Dublin, GA
Position: Safety Technician
Length of Service: 9 Years 1 Month
What would you say it takes to be successful here at YKK AP America Inc.?
Success at YKK AP America Inc. hinges on several factors. Firstly, it requires a commitment to self-improvement and setting achievable goals while avoiding overcommitment. Secondly, maintaining a positive outlook during periods of stress is crucial. Lastly, investing in oneself and fostering relationships with supportive peers who encourage personal growth are essential elements of success.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe YKK AP America Inc., and why?
I would choose the word "support" because it encapsulates the essence of YKK AP America Inc. From my initial role on the production floor in 2015 to my current position as a Safety Technician, the consistent level of support received throughout the organization has been unparalleled.
What is your greatest accomplishment at YKK AP America Inc.?
My most significant achievement at YKK AP America Inc. is having reached the position of Safety Technician. This accomplishment underscores the importance of self-belief and resilience in overcoming challenges encountered along the way.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
If limited to one meal for life, I would choose grilled salmon, sautéed onions and squash, and roasted red potatoes accompanied by a glass of water. This selection aligns with my preference for clean, nutritious, and satisfying food. However, I must admit that a simple bowl of cereal would also suffice, reflecting an appreciation for simplicity.
Describe YKK AP America Inc. in three words.
Supportive, Transparent, and Solid.
Alex Currie
Position: Warehouse & Material Distribution Manager
Tenure: 4 Years and 9 Months
Location: Dublin, GA
Favorite part of working at YKK AP America Inc.?
YKK has many senior employees who are willing to share their knowledge and experiences with others. I enjoy spending time with these individuals and learning as much as possible from them. It also helps to understand the operational history and changes that have occurred within the Dublin manufacturing facility over the years.
At YKK we pay special attention to relationships. Why is this important to you?
Relationships are the foundation of business, both externally and internally. External relationships with customers and vendors allow us to understand the needs and conditions of the current market. Internal relationships with coworkers create a mutually beneficial avenue for learning, growth, and advancement.
What advice would you give someone starting their career at YKK AP America Inc?
My advice to someone starting a career at YKK AP would be to rely on our Core Value, "Do not fear failure; experience builds success." They should also never hesitate to propose a different method for a task, or to try something new.
What have you learned about yourself since starting to work for YKK AP America Inc?
My time at YKK AP has solidified my appreciation for manufacturing. I have always been intrigued by the concept of turning raw materials into a useful product, but being involved in the process daily has greatly increased my interest and appreciation.
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
The next place my wife and I would like to travel to would be Washington, D.C. My wife has always wanted to visit to see the historical aspects of the city.
Boris Alford
Position: Manufacturing Expeditor
Tenure: 6 years and 9 months
Location: Macon, GA
Favorite part of working at YKK AP America Inc.?
My favorite thing about working at YKK AP is the people. I enjoy working and talking with my co-workers.
At YKK we pay special attention to relationships. Why is this important to you?
It's important because if you don’t have a relationship with the person whom you are working with, then it makes the job harder. You must be able to build trust with the people with whom you work side by side.
What advice would you give someone starting their career at YKK AP America Inc?
The advice I would give to someone starting a career at YKK AP would be to be reliable and come to work every day to build relationships and increase knowledge.
What have you learned about yourself since starting to work for YKK AP America Inc?
I have learned from working at YKK AP that I am friendlier than I thought.
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
I am traveling to Virginia this year. Every year we have made it a family tradition to take a vacation in a different state.
Position: Fabrication Technician I
Tenure: 3 years and 7 months
Location: Macon, GA
Favorite part of working at YKK AP America Inc.?
My favorite thing about working for YKK AP is interacting with the people. The people who work around me, including my supervisor and manager, give me energy to come to work.
At YKK we pay special attention to relationships. Why is this important to you?
I would say that it is good to start with communication. Without communication, you do not have anything. I love to give advice and hope that it helps.
What advice would you give someone starting their career at YKK AP America Inc?
My advice to anyone starting a career with YKK AP would be to be on time, never let anyone steal your joy and to always do what your supervisor asks you to do.
What have you learned about yourself since starting to work for YKK AP America Inc?
I have learned to love what I do at work and to appreciate and love the people I work with no matter what. This company has taken me a long way, and I love every moment that I’m here.
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
The next place where I would like to visit is Jamaica. I’ve heard that it’s beautiful and the people treat you with love.
Brandee Bailey
Position: Administrative Assistant
Tenure: 2 Years
Location: Coppell, TX
What is your favorite thing about your team?
My favorite thing about my team is the fact that they are family oriented.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe YKK AP America Inc, and why?
The one word that I would choose to describe YKK AP would be awesome because the atmosphere and the beliefs of the company are something you don't see everywhere.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy watching football and coaching soccer for 7-8 year olds.
What makes you proud to work at YKK AP?
I am proud to work at YKK AP because it is a really good, unique company that truly cares for its employees.
What’s one item that you cannot live without and why?
The one thing that I cannot live without is my family. Even though it is dysfunctional and crazy, my family is everything to me.
Cody Selph
Position: Thermal Processing Manager
Tenure: 1 year and 7 months
Location: Dublin, GA
What is your favorite thing about your team?
My favorite thing about my team is their commitment. Whether it’s working overtime to make sure orders are met or working with me to try and find improvements to make things a little easier for everyone, I can expect my team to make it happen.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe YKK AP America Inc, and why?
I would choose the word dedication to describe YKK AP America Inc. No matter what obstacles are thrown our way, we work together to find a solution. Everyone has the bigger picture in mind, and they work tirelessly to make sure our goals are met.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
I enjoy hunting and fishing in my free time. It is even more rewarding getting to experience these hobbies with my family and friends. As soon as my daughter gets a little older, I plan on dragging her to the woods with me so she can grow up loving the same hobbies that I enjoy.
What makes you proud to work at YKK AP?
I feel honored to be surrounded by men and women who have dedicated their entire careers to YKK AP and to be able to learn some valuable lessons from them is a huge asset. So far, in my short stent here, I have learned a lot from some of the friendliest and most hardworking people I have ever met.
What’s one item that you cannot live without and why?
I hate to say this, but the one item I cannot live without would probably have to be my phone. It is just such a valuable tool that fits in your pocket and makes life so much easier.
Position: LeadPerson
Tenure: 11 years and 8 months
Location: Macon, GA
In your opinion, what does it take to be successful here at YKK AP America?
To be successful you need to always be on time and willing to help others.
What is your favorite thing about your team?
My favorite thing about my team is the fact that there is no drama! My entire team gets along with each other.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe YKK AP America Inc, and why?
The one word that I would choose to describe YKK AP America Inc. is stability because I have a job to come to everyday.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
The hobbies that I enjoy in my free time include walking, reading, shopping, and relaxing in my recliner in front of the TV.
What makes you proud to work at YKK AP?
The thing that makes me proud to work for YKK AP is the fact that I like being a lead in Screen/JAM/SDL and I like what I do.
What’s one item that you cannot live without and why?
The one thing that I cannot live without is my family. They motivate me and keep me grounded.
