Wildman Celebrates ‘LoadBuilders Day’ as Yearly Event

For the third consecutive year, the staff at Wildman Business Group (WBG) recently set aside time to recognize staff who prepare loads of garments, flatwork, facility services items and more, according to a news release.

The goal, says Alecia Brooks, quality/fulfillment coordinator for the Warsaw, IN-based industrial operator, is to provide a meaningful event aimed at recognizing the “dedication and hard work of our incredible loadbuilders.” She adds that the program has developed a strong following among staff at all levels. “What started as a simple gesture of appreciation has grown into one of the most heartfelt and anticipated traditions in our organization.”

Employees who prepare goods for packout and delivery to customers are critical to WBG’s success, she said, noting that these employees work behind the scenes to keep the operation running smoothly. Given their contributions, company leaders decided that some form of employee recognition was appropriate. “Each year, we set aside an hour of celebration, where the spotlight is solely on them,” said Brooks. “During this time, the entire team comes together from the Executive Team, the Service Team and other departments to express genuine gratitude and appreciation.”

The celebration includes a company-provided lunch, along with drinks and snacks to enhance the festive atmosphere, Brooks said. “It’s a small way of giving back to those who give so much every day, and it adds to the sense of community and appreciation felt throughout the day.” There is no set day to celebrate loadbuilders, Brooks said, adding that, “It’s something unique to our team. Typically, we aim to hold the recognition before the end of summer, though the exact timing may shift slightly from year to year based on business needs.”

New this year is an add-on initiative where employees exchange “Change Maker Cards.” The idea is for employees to record their sentiments on small cards and give them to the loaders as a recognition and morale booster. Change-maker cards were also sent to the company’s other market centers, so that employees could show their appreciation for loadbuilders at all WBG sites. The response to this move was positive, Brooks said. “In total, our team received approximately 30 Change Maker Cards, filled with heartfelt sentiments,” Brooks said. “Some of the messages were so moving they brought tears to the eyes of those reading them. These weren’t just ‘thank-yous.’ They were powerful affirmations of each team member’s value, contribution and impact.”

While staff refer to this event as National LoadBuilders Day, it is in fact an internal WBG project, Brooks said. However, other companies may want to adapt the idea as a way to recognize their own staff who build loads for customers. For more information, readers may contact Brooks at Alecia.Brooks@wildmanBG.com .