In the “My Kind of Town” vlog, Randy, the president of Quality Carriers, tours key terminals in Wisconsin and the Chicago area. He showcases the company’s operations while highlighting the dedication of its employees.
The tour begins in Appleton, Wisconsin, where Randy visits a terminal managed by Todd Wiedeman. This terminal plays a crucial role in transloading goods from rail cars to trucks, servicing the local market and the larger Chicago area. Randy praises the significant improvements in efficiency and the expansion of the terminal since his first visit in 2010. He highlights the team’s efforts, mentioning employees like Bill Mueller, Jason, Amy, Kim, and Chris, who are integral to the operation. The terminal is set to receive further investment, including a full-service maintenance operation to enhance efficiency.
Next, Randy travels to Bristol, Wisconsin, near the Illinois border. One of the company’s few union-operated locations, this terminal services a top-five customer focusing on coatings for beverages and other products. Randy is impressed by the high level of compliance and service the team maintains. He meets long-term employee Diane, who has been with the company since 1978 and reflects on the terminal’s rich history. The Bristol location has a large, well-equipped shop and a dedicated team of drivers and staff. This makes it one of Quality Carriers’ premier operations.
The tour continues to Bedford Park, Illinois, the first stop in the Chicago area. This facility, acquired through the purchase of a small carrier five or six years ago, primarily handles maintenance. It focuses on servicing the Chicago market. Randy notes that about half of the work at this location involves servicing trailers from other companies. This is due to the launch of Quality Repair Solutions (QRS). Plans to open additional shops in the area underscore the strategic importance of Chicago as a transportation hub.
In Joliet, Illinois, Randy visits two locations. The first is an affiliate operation run by Nick Boomsma, which is transitioning to a company operation. Randy appreciates Nick’s long-term partnership and dedication to the business. The second Joliet stop is a trailer-focused shop managed by Steve. There, Randy meets several mechanics and reflects on the team’s camaraderie and their achievements, like winning company decorating contests.
The final stop is in Gary, Indiana, one of the largest operations in Quality Carriers’ network. Randy commends the team, led by Pattie Hodges, for their dedication and the high quality of the facility. The terminal has recently expanded by integrating a former affiliate’s operation, further strengthening its capabilities. The visit ends on a high note with a fun 1920s gangster-themed event, celebrating the team’s commitment to growth and service excellence.
Throughout the vlog, Randy emphasizes the importance of each terminal, the dedication of the employees, and the continuous investment in facilities and personnel to drive Quality Carriers’ success. The “My Kind of Town” tour showcases the company’s commitment to excellence in service and operational efficiency across its network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quality Carriers specializes in bulk transportation services, particularly hauling liquid and dry bulk chemicals. Its extensive network of terminals across North America offers a range of services, including transloading, tank washing, and maintenance.
Quality Carriers serves various industries, including chemical manufacturing, paper production, food and beverage, and coatings. They specialize in transporting chemicals and other bulk materials critical to these industries.
Quality Carriers operates across North America, with a strong presence in the United States and Canada. Their extensive terminal network efficiently serves both local and long-haul transportation needs.
