Since January of 2011, Brian Bortner has been an integral team member — doing whatever it takes to
help Schad continue to succeed. As a result, he has become a very well-rounded employee and has earned the honor of Schad Employee Of The Month.
A fun person to have around the office, Brian has a good attitude and has done a good job of improving the team dynamic in the warehouse that he manages. He has built a strong relationship with his co-workers and is always ready to grab a bite to eat or head to a game. “I just try to be a little better each day,” says Brian. “I always tell my guys to change their best, be a little better each day than they were the day prior.”
Brian takes his direct responsibilities very seriously and yet is still willing and interested in being a catalyst for improvement in other aspects of the business. His daily attitude shows that he takes a lot of pride in doing his best and representing the company in a professional manner each day.
MEET BRIAN BORTNER
What do you like most about working at Schad?
I feel like Schad is a small enough company that it appreciates its employees, but big enough that it performs large scale construction jobs in the industry. Companies like Schad are rare in this day and age.
How has Schad helped your career development, and what are your future career goals?
I have learned how to manage people effectively, which was not a skill I possessed when I first stepped into this position. I have a good team in the warehouse and it is a pleasure to watch them grow as a unit.
How would you describe the Schad culture?
The Schad culture is a unique one. The culture preaches safety above all other things. We believe that if you cannot do something safely, it should not be done — Period. We do not accept anything but high-quality workmanship and our reputation in the refractory industry reflects that. The last thing I want to mention is that Schad is a fourth generation family owned business who takes care of its employees.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy listening to music, going to concerts, watching old movies, and working around my house.
What is something unique about you?
I follow Western Michigan University football pretty closely. I earned my degree from there.
If you could go to one concert, past or present, which would it be?
Jimmy Buffett in the early 80’s before he got really popular.
If given the chance, who would you like to be for a day?
Larry David or George Clooney
What advice do you have for future Schad candidates?
I just try to be a little better each day. I always tell my guys to change their best, be a little better each day than they were the day prior.
Want to bring your skills to the Schad team? View our career opportunities, and apply today.
Know a Schad employee you would like to nominate for an upcoming employee of the month. Send us an email with your nomination and a few ways this individual helps make Schad great.