An Interview with Lucas Whitaker, a part-time student and part-time employee at R&S
At R&S Logistics, customers value the tenacity that our employees bring to work each day. University of Tennessee student, Lucas Whitaker is a great example of the hard-working, problem-solving mentality that sets R&S apart in the world of 3PLs.
Initially impressed by the company’s enthusiastic work environment and camaraderie among employees and management, it didn’t take long for Lucas to recognize “that R&S Logistics was an environment where I could thrive and enjoy.” In fact, during his orientation, he was told that people and relationships matter the most, and his time with the company has confirmed this reality.
Commenting on the importance of relationships at R&S, Lucas explained that “I can confidently say that this is not merely a statement, but a principle actively embraced and worked toward every day. This allows me to feel valued and inspired to give my best at work, knowing I am supported and trusted by management as well as fellow employees.” He enjoys going to work each day because of the balance between “a fun, lively work environment with an emphasis on productivity.”
While he hadn’t worked in warehousing before, Lucas knew R&S would equip him with necessary insights to excel in supply chain management at UT. Learning what day-to-day operations look like in a 3PL, Lucas has come to understand “how the strategic setup of warehouse processes is designed to enhance efficiency.” One mistake early on with the company taught him the importance of efficiency. Rushing through the process of packing a pallet, Lucas initially thought that speed meant effectiveness.
Instead, he realized “speed alone can lead to inefficiencies” and that “consistency and attention to detail” are essential components to successful operations. And, as long-time R&S employees would attest, sometimes you never know what problems might arise when shipments come in and pallets go out. Lucas has learned that “being able to adapt to changes and resolving unexpected issues” will serve him well in the future.
When asked his main takeaway from R&S, Lucas said “the importance of leadership.” He learned this from President and COO, Joe Michalik, who took him to lunch just after starting with the company. That Joe would be intentional to meet with a part-time college student made quite an impression on Lucas. Grateful for the experience, he hopes to impact others in similar ways one day.
Once he finishes at UT, Lucas plans to attend law school to focus on business law. His degree in supply chain management and time at R&S will help him best utilize his background “in business to offer valuable legal expertise in the corporate world one day.”
R&S is grateful for Lucas’ dedication to the company and hopes to hire more students like him who are hungry to learn more about the fun, lively world of 3PLs.
