Position: Inside Sales & Markerting Representative
Tenure: 3 years and 2 months
Location: Lakeshore, ON (Canada)
How would you describe the culture at Erie AP?
I would describe the culture at Erie AP as a hybrid of our Fundamental Behaviors. It provides a collaborative, inclusive environment in which creativity thrives. Team members support one another, value diversity, and are encouraged to grow.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No two days are the same for me. A typical day includes creating project schedules by coordinating with different departments for bid-stage projects, developing projected billing and forecasting anticipated projects, generating sales reports, providing estimation and bidding support to the team, preparing the quarterly newsletter, and managing the screens.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
We work collaboratively to deliver all required materials while bidding on projects. The most rewarding part of our job is winning new projects, especially in such a competitive market.
Any other positive experiences that you would like to share that may help build the brand?
Over the past two years, we have planted more than 3,200 trees in the Detroit River Watershed in collaboration with the Essex Region Conservation Authority on Earth Day. I'm a strong supporter of sustainability, and this has been a fantastic way to give back to both the community and the environment.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I'm a huge cricket fan. During matches, I'm known for my cunning spin bowling, which has surprised many batsmen!
Tony Givens
Position: Scheduling Coordinator
Length of service: 4 years and 4 months
Location: Dallas, TX (USA)
How would you describe the culture at YKK AP?
The work culture at YKK AP provides a positive, employee-friendly atmosphere. We work as a team and continually strive for excellence.
What does a typical day look like for you?
At YKK AP, each day is characterized by collaborative teamwork, a friendly and supportive environment, and minimal stress.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is building strong connections with customers and providing excellent service.
Any other positive experiences that you would like to share that may help build the brand?
One positive experience for me has been being recognized by customers and seeing their concerns addressed promptly and efficiently.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I love journaling because it helps me process my internal world. I also enjoy meditating while sitting in a closet, as it creates a cozy and quiet space for reflection.
Position: Sales Representative
Tenure: 30 Years and 3 Months
Location: Chicago, IL (USA)
How would you describe the culture at YKK AP?
Reflecting on my tenure with YKK AP, I believe the ability to both learn and teach has been pivotal to my success. Our organization thrives on continuous improvement, with each new challenge presenting an opportunity for growth. However, the true measure of success lies in sharing that knowledge with others. Investing time in developing new skills is valuable, but the real reward comes from empowering those around you by passing on what you’ve learned.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No day is ever the same. Throughout my career, the world has faced significant challenges, including recessions, terrorist attacks, wars, pandemics, severe weather events, and other external crises. Despite these difficulties, YKK AP has demonstrated an exceptional ability to adapt and thrive, navigating each situation while continuing to grow as a company. That resilience is reflected in my day-to-day work and approach.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
My greatest accomplishment is seeing the individuals I’ve had the privilege to mentor and teach flourish and advance in their careers and personal lives. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them gain confidence in their abilities while embracing the importance of sharing their knowledge with others. By doing so, they become a vital link in preserving our history and culture, continuously growing our craft and refining the most valuable product we have, our people.
Any other positive experiences that you would like to share that may help build the brand?
The teamwork here truly feels like a community. There’s an openness and transparency that allows you to communicate with anyone, and employees are always willing to support one another. This creates an environment where we can continue to grow, evolve, and build new opportunities together.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I am culture-driven, dedicated, and resilient.
Zahra Shariatzadeh
Position: Production Team 2 (Fabricator)
Tenure: 1 year and 8 months
Location: Lakeshore, ON (Canada)
In your opinion, what would you say it takes to be successful at Erie AP?
When you are willing to learn, you can be successful at Erie AP. I have technical experience from a previous job, and I am handy, and I have learned how to refine my skills at Erie AP.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe Erie AP, and why?
The one word that I would choose to describe Erie AP would be opportunity. Erie AP provides an environment that creates an opportunity for employees to move forward.
What is your greatest accomplishment at Erie AP?
My greatest accomplishment at Erie AP has been moving up into a Production Team 2 position within my first 8 months of working here.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
If I could eat only one meal for the rest of my life it would be my mother’s version of Zereshk polo. It has a variety of flavors that are sour and savory, and this dish reminds me of my childhood.
Describe Erie AP in three words?
The three words that I would use to describe Erie AP are diverse, empathetic and collaborative.
Elizabeth Santoyo
Position: Sr. Customer Service Representative
Length of service: 1 year and 4 months
Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA (USA)
In your opinion, what would you say it takes to be successful here at YKK AP?
I would say that it takes communication and diversity to be successful at YKK AP.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe YKK AP, and why?
The one word I would choose to describe YKK AP is family, which is just like YKK’s Philosophy and the Cycle of Goodness.
What is your greatest accomplishment at YKK AP?
My greatest accomplishment at YKK AP is that I helped build the West Coast Facility with my coworkers.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
I would say the one meal I could eat for the rest of my life would be chicken with vegetables and rice. This is simple and satisfying.
Describe YKK AP in three words?
The three words that I would choose to describe YKK AP are supportive, stable and flexible.
Position: Quality Engineering, Technical Supervisor
Tenure: 9 Years and 4 Months
Location: Lakeshore, ON (Canada)
In your opinion, what does it take to be successful at Erie AP?
It takes patience, dedication and an aptitude for learning to be successful at Erie AP.
What’s the one word you would choose to describe Erie AP and why?
The one word I would choose to describe Erie AP is “thriller” on account of the forever expanding diversity of projects and the need to grow within the company to meet new objectives.
What is your greatest accomplishment at Erie AP?
My greatest accomplishment within the company is that I visit project sites, install mockups and represent the company, while working in a male dominated role.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
I would eat Tostitos tortilla chips with Franks hot sauce, shredded cheese and a sprinkle of Montreal steak spice, toasted. This dish is salty, spicy and savory, and it seems to conquer any stress craving that may present itself.
Describe Erie AP in three words?
I would describe Erie AP as unique, family-built, and divergent.
Barbara Pitts
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.
