BWT CONNECT
NEWSLETTER
April Edition
Spring has officially arrived, bringing new energy and growth— and here at BWT, we're embracing the season with fresh ideas, stronger connections, and continued momentum. This month, we’re celebrating our team’s wins, highlighting new initiatives, and sharing important updates to keep you informed, inspired, and empowered. Here’s to a
Spotlight on Fort Wayne
The BWT Fort Wayne team may be small, but they are mighty! Operating out of our warehouse in partnership with Clarios, this eight-person team manages warehousing for core batteries, as well as items like lead, barrels, and the newly introduced Duff Batteries.
The crew includes two clerks, five forklift/warehouse team members, and a Site Manager who leads with a focus on collaboration and consistency. Among the team, Tim Phillips stands out as a trusted leader, supporting daily warehouse operations with skill and reliability.
To keep things moving efficiently, the team uses Powerhouse for inbound and outbound activity, integrated with SAP as the ERP system. Their peak seasons are spring and summer, requiring tight coordination and proactive planning. Recently, they introduced shift-to-shift meetings to enhance communication and maintain accuracy throughout the day.
Adapting to Operational Changes
One recent challenge has been managing warehouse logistics during the transition to bin-to-bin FIFO standards. As part of this shift, the team restructured the warehouse layout to accommodate a surge in incoming inventory—and they did it with flexibility, dedication, and positive attitudes.
Culture That Connects
The environment at Fort Wayne is friendly, informative, and improvementdriven. Leadership encourages continuous growth, and daily team huddles start with mental check-ins, allowing teammates to share how they’re feeling and promote supportive, productive communication.
✨ Did You Know?
Everyone on the team is relatively new to BWT, yet they’ve quickly established a smooth and effective workflow.
The Fort Wayne Airport occasionally accesses the BWT facility as part of their operations!
Continued Spotlight
Service with Purpose
Strong customer relationships are a top priority. The Fort Wayne team welcomes every visitor with professionalism and a spirit of partnership, always focused on delivering excellent service.
Looking Forward
With a bin-to-bin flow model on the horizon, the team is excited to continue streamlining operations. Their ongoing goal is to remain a dependable partner for Clarios while building a positive, high-performing workplace that reflects the values of BWT.
“At Fort Wayne, we’re proof that with the right mindset and a strong team, even the smallest crews can make the biggest impact.”
– BWT Fort Wayne Team
Click to play the video!
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
APRIL EMPLOYEE
OF THE MONTH
�� Employee of the Month – Eric Moore ��
Warehouse Lead | 2nd Shift | Tampa, FL
Hire Date: 03/20/2023
This month, we’re proud to recognize Eric Moore as BWT’s Employee of the Month! As a Warehouse Lead at our Tampa, FL location, Eric continues to set the bar high with his performance, leadership, and dedication.
Eric played a key role during recent warehouse challenges, using his experience to resolve issues quickly while also training new forklift operators. He’s the go-to person for ERP training and troubleshooting, giving managers the confidence to focus on broader responsibilities.
He leads by example in safety, always ensuring procedures like trailer lock-downs are followed. He also stepped up during our tech transition, helping rewire forklifts to support ERP tablets—keeping operations smooth and efficient. Eric’s dedication and can-do attitude make him a key part of the Tampa team. Thank you for all you do!
BIRTHDAYS
3 – Matthew Jordan Ghantt
5 – William Murphy
7 – Jezibel Rivera
7 – Walter Fabian Mora Cobo
8 – Tasha Andrews
9 – Christine Wofford
12 – Henry Wilmore
15 – Jadison M. Holbert
17 – Heriberto Polanco
18 – Kevin L. Getter
18 – Mohammed Hossain Jr.
21 – Jon Bombard
21 – LaVontia Broussard
23 – Kenneth Alston
23 – Christopher G. McBride
24 – Zackary Stefan Brady Haught
25 – Yen Newton
26 – Sidney Goode
27 – Steven Rand Jones
28 – John Baldwin
29 – Chris Dennison
29 – Shamon Hay
SAFETY FIRST SAFETY VIDEO
�� Safety First: Be Prepared for Severe Weather ��
Spring brings warmer temperatures—and sometimes, unpredictable weather. As we enter peak severe weather season, it's important to stay alert and ready.
Here are a few key safety reminders:
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts in your area.
Know Your Shelter Locations: Identify safe zones in your facility or home in case of tornadoes or high winds. Secure Loose Items: If storms are expected, ensure outdoor materials or equipment are properly secured.
Avoid Flooded Areas: Never drive or walk through flooded roads—“Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Emergency Kit Check: Make sure you have flashlights, batteries, water, and a basic first-aid kit ready.
At BWT, your safety is always a priority. Talk with your site manager about local protocols and what to do in the event of severe weather.
Let’s stay prepared, stay safe, and support one another—rain or shine! ��
BWT WORK PERKS
BWT Work Perks: Rosetta Stone – 60% Off!
For more details, click the Link
Learn a new language for less! LifeMart members get 60% off Rosetta Stone—pay just $149 for a lifetime subscription (regularly $399). Access 25 languages with immersive lessons, real-world practice, and live coaching. No renewal fees—just lifelong learning!
Why it’s a perk worth exploring: Lifetime access, no renewals
Learn at your own pace
Great for travel, career development, or personal growth
Take advantage of this offer and start your language journey today!
ADP LifeMart
April National Events & Holidays
National Donate Life Month (All Month): Honors organ, eye, and tissue donors and encourages Americans to register as donors.
National Volunteer Month (All Month): Celebrates the power of volunteers to make a difference in their communities across the country.
National Autism Acceptance Month (All Month): Promotes understanding, inclusion, and acceptance for individuals with autism.
Earth Month (All Month): Encourages environmental awareness, sustainability, and conservation efforts across the U.S.
National Stress Awareness Month (All Month): Raises awareness about the impact of stress and promotes strategies for mental wellness.
Arab American Heritage Month (All Month): Recognizes the achievements and cultural contributions of Arab Americans throughout U.S. history.
April 1 – April Fools’ Day: A playful day for jokes and lighthearted fun—keep it kind and workplace-appropriate!
April 15 – Tax Day (Federal): Deadline to file federal income taxes for 2024.
April 22 – Earth Day: A day to take action for the planet through clean-ups, tree plantings, and sustainability events.
April State Events
Georgia: Dogwood Festival (Atlanta) – A spring celebration of local art, music, and community.
South Carolina: Strawberry Season Begins – Look out for local pick-your-own events and strawberry festivals.
Minnesota: Severe Weather Awareness Week – Includes statewide tornado drills and emergency preparedness education.
Indiana: Indiana Arbor Day (April 26) –Promotes conservation and tree planting, celebrated on the last Friday of April.
Florida: Child Abuse Prevention Month –Highlighted with community awareness and prevention campaigns.
Delaware: Days of Remembrance Events –Honoring Holocaust victims and survivors (observed locally).
California: California Poppy Day (April 6) –Celebrates the state flower and California’s natural beauty.
New York: Earth Week Activities – Includes sustainability workshops, community clean-ups, and green initiatives.
New Jersey: Clean Communities
Awareness Month (NJ) – Encourages litter prevention and environmental responsibility.
Louisiana: Festival Season – Celebrates food, music, and culture with major community events like the French Quarter Festival.
Arkansas: Keep Arkansas Beautiful Month – Promotes clean-up events and community beautification.
Illinois: Statewide Earth Month Programs –Includes eco-fairs, recycling drives, and local park clean-up events.
WELLNESS AND SELF-CARE TIPS WORKPLACE WISDOM
Lift Smart, Stay Safe
Whether you're on the warehouse floor or helping out with something heavy at home, proper lifting matters. Protect your back and avoid strain by following these safe lifting tips:
Plan Ahead – Know where you're going and clear your path.
Lift with Your Legs – Bend at the knees, not the waist. Keep your back straight.
Hold Items Close – Keep the load close to your body to reduce stress on your spine.
Avoid Twisting – Turn with your feet, not your torso.
Ask for Help – When in doubt, use a team lift or equipment like a pallet jack or forklift.
Your health and safety are top priorities at BWT—take care of your body with every lift!
Download Flyer
Enhancing Communication Effectiveness
Effective communication goes beyond just speaking—it's about ensuring your message is understood, respectful, and clear. At BWT, strong communication fosters teamwork and enhances our overall operations.
Here are some tips to strengthen your communication skills:
✔ Be Clear and Direct – Clearly express your thoughts and steer clear of unnecessary jargon.
✔ Listen to Understand – Focus fully on the speaker and ask follow-up questions for clarity.
✔ Confirm Understanding – Don’t make assumptions; check if anything needs further explanation.
✔ Choose the Right Channel – Whether it’s email, face-to-face, text, or Teams, select the best method for the context.
✔ Maintain Respect – Be considerate of tone and timing when giving feedback or raising concerns.
Effective communication is a skill that can be honed with practice.
Download PowerPoint
GROW WITH US: SITE MANAGER OPPORTUNITY IN
PLATTSBURGH, NY!
Step into Your Next Adventure
Are you ready to lead, thrive, and make your mark in an exciting new city? We are looking for a committed BWT team member who is eager to rise and manage our location in Plattsburgh, NY.
This could be your next enchanting chapter if you:
✔ Possess a valid CDL accompanied by a good driving record
✔ Exude a leadership style that inspires and uplifts your team
✔ Uphold high standards and take pride in the pursuit of operational excellence
✔ Are open to seizing a new opportunity in Plattsburgh, NY
✔ Aspire to cultivate your own team and drive remarkable results
➡ Download the flyer for full details and link to apply!
ONE APP. REAL IMPACT.
BWT is proud to stand with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) in the fight to end human trafficking in our industry.
TAT is aiming for 2,500 app downloads between March and April—and you can help them get there.
�� Download and share the free TAT app – a powerful tool that helps drivers recognize and report signs of trafficking. It features red flag indicators, training videos, and direct access to the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
�� Please share or post the attached graphic at your site or in your breakroom.
Thank you for being part of a team that stands for more.
Flyer
YOUR VOICE MATTERS
�� New Initiatives Committee
We’re looking for employees and managers to join our Committee for Testing New Initiatives! This is your chance to help shape the future of our operations by testing and providing feedback on new ideas.
If you're passionate about innovation and making an impact, we want YOU to be part of this exciting opportunity.
Email your interest to: bwtconnects@bwtlogistics.com
�� Be Featured in the BWT Newsletter!
Share a photo of your team or a great moment at BWT, and you could be in the next newsletter!
✨ What We Want:
�� A photo
�� A brief description
�� What You Get:
✔ Recognition
✔ A chance to win swag
✔ Possibly an extra PTO day!
�� Send to bwtconnects@bwtlogistics.com by the 24th!
Send in Your Submissions for the Newsletter!
Your stories and insights help make our newsletter a true reflection of our team’s dedication and successes. Don’t miss the chance to be featured—send in your contributions today!
