Curtis’ big picture

Originally from Invercargill, Curtis had a challenging upbringing. “I wasn’t heading down the right path,” says Curtis. Determined to break the cycle, Curtis opted for a destination 1500 kms away - Hamilton. He stumbled into a manufacturing career by chance, landing a fixed-term contract with APL as part of the Night Shift Mill team. Curtis’ bosses were impressed with his ‘can-do’ attitude, and he was quickly offered a permanent position.

In 2015, Curtis and his partner decided to move to Queenstown. Coincidentally, Design Windows Cromwell, part of APL’s manufacturer network, happened to be recruiting. A colleague put Curtis in touch with Design Windows, and Curtis jumped at the opportunity to gain another perspective on the industry and develop new skills and knowledge.

“I always wanted to see the bigger picture,” says Curtis.

In 2016, Curtis moved back to Hamilton and rejoined the APL family, making the most of the skills he picked up while working for Design Windows Cromwell. From there, he transitioned into the role of Night Shift Inwards Goods Team Leader, passing along his knowledge to the next generation of employees at APL.

Curtis and his real family have always felt supported by his APL whānau. Following the birth of his daughter, working nights was no longer suitable for Curtis and his family, so his bosses at APL supported his transition to dayshifts.

Reflecting on the places he’s been, Curtis believes that opportunities are endless if you have the right mindset.

“If you have the right mindset, there will be no shortage of opportunities available. Be patient, be humble, and good things will come to you.”

For Curtis, this forward-thinking continues every day, as he plays an essential part in the Warehouse Operations leadership group.

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