40 Year Spotlight: Michael Tate and Tim Dijulio
This year, we are proud to celebrate two individuals who are celebrating 40 years at WCP: Michael from WCP Portland and Tim from WCP Kent. We want to take this spotlight to highlight these two employees and share a snippet of their stories. A huge congratulations to both of them on this remarkable milestone and joining the 40-year-and-up club!
Tim Dijulio – WCP Kent
In February, Tim will officially celebrate his 40th anniversary with WCP. He has spent all his tenure working out of the Kent Division warehouse as a warehouseperson. On a typical day, Tim focuses on returns, cycle counts, and floor counts. However, he has held numerous operational roles, including Night-Shift Order Filler, Night Crew Supervisor, Raymond-Certified Reach Truck Driver, Picker Trainer, Will Call Servicer, and Inventory Control Cycle Counter. He has also assisted with processing returns and credits, operated the paper cutter, and regularly covered receiving, cutting, and stocking.
When asked for a fond memory from over the years, Tim’s list was extensive. He mentioned playing softball on three WCP teams, spirited cornhole games with colleagues like Derek Dela Cerna and Ron Brown, and Donut Fridays. Tim also noted that the anniversary parties, company barbecues, the announcement that the M3 system was being canceled, Ice Cream Days, and Hot Dog Cart Days were highlights, too. “The experiences I have made have been both energizing and memorable.”
“I have worked with Tim for 36 years, and he knows and can perform every job in the warehouse operations. Tim was instrumental in developing the warehouse swing shift when he was the warehouse nightshift supervisor for ten years. Tim always has a great attitude and is willing to do whatever needs to be done on a daily basis. He shows up for work every day and cares about the quality of work he does to help the Operations run smoothly. Tim is definitely a go-to guy in the warehouse. Congratulations on 40 years!” – Chuck Howard, WCP Kent Warehouse Manager
Michael Tate – WCP Portland
Michael has been part of the WCP Portland team for nearly 40 years, celebrating his 40th anniversary this upcoming November. Though he currently works as a Warehouseman, Michael originally joined WCP to work in the Sample Department. It was after earning his Associate’s degree in Graphic Reproduction that Michael moved into a full-time warehouse role.
During his interview, Michael said that the biggest change during his time at WCP has been the company’s growth. This included the expansion of WCP Converting and Envelope, as well as the development of divisions across the region. One specific moment that really stood out to Michael was the move to the current Portland location. He remembers the warehouse manager at the time buying lunch for the team out of his own pocket, and Dick Abrams jumping in to help move inventory.
“I have known Michael Tate for 33 years as a teammate and friend. His work ethic is impeccable, as is his outlook on life. He is stalwart and true, as the saying goes. He can be and is very much trusted and relied upon, a trait that he possesses wherever he may find himself. He is a rare find in a person these days.” – Marc Stansfield, WCP Portland Warehouse Manager
A note from our Leadership
“As said above, WCP is about people, including careers and success. The individual and team efforts contribute to WCP’s success, to the success of fellow employees, and to who we are. These wonderful career stories illustrate personal success, dedication, and a bit about how each person has seized opportunities. Each person featured and each story puts a smile on my face and inspires me. I hope it does the same for you. As said by Dick Abrams, a heartfelt thanks!” – Teresa Russell, Third Generation Owner of WCP
“A fundamental belief at WCP is that each employee is of value as a unique individual. Unique in who you are and in what you can do for yourself and others. Those whom we honor for their long-term commitment have found that the satisfaction of employment is more than just a job; it is a rewarding career. It is worth noting that, true to individual talents and desires, the career paths of choice cover all aspects of our operations, whether it be sales, warehouse, office, etc. A heartfelt thanks to all.” – Dick Abrams, Second Generation Owner of WCP
An Additional Farewell
Recently, John Flynn retired from WCP Kent. He was one of the company’s longest-tenured employees, having been with us for 48 years. Congratulations, John, you will be missed. Happy retirement. Click this link to read our last 40-Year Spotlight and learn about Jon and other long standing employees.
