Chicago Operations Manager Started as Part-Time Dock Associate

Bartosz "Bart" Drabczynski came to Averitt 15 years ago as a part-time dock associate and is a great example of Averitt's "Promote from Within" culture. Since then, he's experienced consistent growth, and in 2018 he was promoted to his current role as operations manager.

"Everybody talks about the Averitt culture, and I have to agree with them," Bart says. "The Averitt culture for me is the people who work here. That's the biggest difference between Averitt and places I worked before. The people are nice, friendly and willing to help you out."

Bart says an important reason for his career growth is learning how to get out of his comfort zone.

"Naturally, I'm kind of an introvert," he explains. "That was the biggest obstacle for me growing in my career. Through the years, I've learned how to be more open, how to communicate with people, and how to be a better leader."

WORK + CONFIDENCE = SUCCESS

Confidence and hard work are a potent combination, according to Bart.

"Do everything 100%. Don't just do it halfway," Bart says. "Show that you care and that you want to be here. Don't just get by. Put in the work, and if you do move up into a new position, there's a reason why you're there. Somebody sees something special in you, and you need to be aware of it. Be confident, and know that you're the right person for the job."

BE WILLING TO ASK FOR HELP

Bart adds that it's important to ask for help when you need it.

"Don't be afraid to ask questions," he says. "If there's something you don't know, ask your immediate leader. If I have a question, I go to my leader. Don't be afraid to ask questions. That's how we learn. I still learn something new every day after 15 years. You can't solve everything yourself, so it's important to be able to ask for help."

The culture and growth Bart has experienced make him want to stick with Averitt for the long haul.

"Averitt has been really good to me, and I hope I'm good for Averitt," he says with a laugh. "I'm hoping to get another 15 years, and I hope to retire from here."

OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND AT AVERITT

If you're ready to take the next step in your Averitt career, take a look an opportunities in your area!