Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Derek Bertke

Saint Helens

Summary

Dynamic professional with extensive experience at Turtle Logist-x, excelling in fleet management and logistics coordination. Proven leadership in enhancing driver performance and safety standards, while fostering a positive team environment. Skilled in data analysis and effective communication, driving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Committed to continuous improvement and team development.

Professional with strong background in horizontal construction, adept at site preparation, excavation, and grading. Proven expertise in operating heavy machinery, reading blueprints, and adhering to safety protocols. Known for effective team collaboration and delivering high-quality results under changing conditions. Reliable and adaptable with skills in problem-solving, project management, and communication.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Driver/Manager/Personal Trainer

Turtle Logist-x
07.2023 - Current
  • Increased customer satisfaction by addressing concerns promptly and providing regular updates on delivery status.
  • Maintained accurate records of driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and fuel costs for thorough fleet management.
  • Developed and maintained long-term, positive relationships with assigned drivers to enhance morale and productivity.
  • Enhanced driver performance by implementing effective training programs and coaching sessions.
  • Reduced accidents and safety incidents through rigorous monitoring of driver behavior and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Counseled drivers on violations of company policy or service standards to improve performance.
  • Evaluated driver performance regularly using a combination of objective metrics and direct observation, providing constructive feedback to support professional growth.
  • Coordinated with drivers to organize timely pickup and delivery.
  • Addressed driver communications and provided required data to drivers.
  • Coordinated closely with warehousing teams to ensure smooth transitions between loading docks and vehicles during peak periods.
  • Streamlined route planning with the use of GPS navigation software, optimizing schedules for maximum efficiency.
  • Created contingency plans for unforeseen delays or changes in route conditions, minimizing disruptions to scheduled deliveries.
  • Monitored compliance with DOT regulations and maintained necessary documentation for audits and inspections.
  • Conducted regular safety meetings to reinforce best practices among drivers while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Implemented preventative maintenance schedules for vehicles, reducing downtime due to mechanical issues.
  • Implemented an efficient scheduling system that allowed drivers to better balance their work-life commitments while meeting company objectives.
  • Trained new staff on job duties, company policies, and safety procedures for rapid onboarding.
  • Reduced worker accidents by implementing improved safety standards and monitoring procedures.
  • Organized records of vehicles, schedules and completed orders.
  • Coordinated driver dispatch to accomplish daily delivery requirements.
  • Developed and maintained knowledgeable and productive team of employees.
  • Conducted research to address shipping errors and packaging mistakes.
  • Created and enforced detailed organization processes to increase quality and service standards.
  • Fostered a positive workout environment with upbeat energy and professional demeanor.

12N Horizontal Construction Engineer

US Army Reserve
08.2019 - 03.2025
  • Mobilized tractor crawler to clear, grub, strip, excavate, backfill and stockpile.
  • Prepared construction reports to document progress and recommend corrective courses of action.
  • Created project schedules and job scopes to coordinate activities.
  • Collected and managed data to develop engineering estimates.
  • Conducted in-depth research to develop recommendations for approaches, concepts, materials or equipment.
  • Leveraged scraper to cut and spread fill material.
  • Operated tractor-trailer to transport heavy construction equipment.
  • Expedited project timelines by devising creative solutions to unforeseen challenges or obstacles encountered during construction phases.
  • Optimized workflow processes for increased productivity, resulting in faster project turnaround times without sacrificing quality.
  • Played an integral role in the successful completion of complex projects by effectively collaborating with team members, clients, and stakeholders.
  • Enhanced safety standards by rigorously enforcing compliance with regulations and conducting regular inspections.
  • Evaluated environmental impacts of proposed projects, taking necessary steps to minimize negative consequences and adhere to regulations.
  • Reduced project completion times by effectively coordinating team efforts and optimizing resource allocation.
  • Improved project efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing innovative construction techniques.
  • Monitored employee safety and coached workers on safety standards and procedures to prevent injuries.
  • Developed and implemented emergency response plan to increase preparedness and prompt response.
  • Operated skid steers, front end loaders, D7 dozers, and back hoes
  • I was a sergeant and with that responsibility i was in charge of not only the safety and well being of the soldiers under my command. i also was in charge of the work site's to make sure all safety standards were followed, and that the work was completed on time and accurate to specs.

Forklift Operator

Cascades Tissue Group
03.2023 - 07.2023
  • Safely loaded and unloaded trucks using appropriate forklift attachments, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
  • Kept warehouse clean and organized by removing debris and returning unused pallets to designated areas.
  • Improved warehouse efficiency by skillfully operating forklifts to move, locate, and stack materials.
  • Transported goods between warehouse locations according to shipment and storage needs.
  • Operated forklift in compliance with OSHA guidelines and organizational policies.
  • Operated equipment safely and efficiently to prevent damage to items and avoid injuries.
  • Unloaded and stacked materials by raising and lowering lifting devices.
  • Maneuvered forklift safely using appropriate load rates and maintaining clear visibility of work areas.
  • Collaborated with team members to complete tasks quickly and increase overall productivity.
  • Demonstrated versatility in operating various types of forklifts, including sit-down, stand-up, and reach varieties, to accommodate different warehouse layouts and requirements.
  • Minimized product damage through careful maneuvering and transporting of fragile items.
  • Coordinated with supervisors to prioritize tasks, ensuring the most urgent shipments were processed first.
  • Assisted in training new employees on safe forklift operation, contributing to a stronger workforce.
  • Communicated with floor managers to determine merchandise placement.
  • Enhanced workplace safety by diligently inspecting forklifts before each shift and reporting any issues promptly.
  • Maintained optimal inventory levels with precise forklift operation and proper storage techniques.
  • Coordinated with other lift truck drivers and production personnel to process orders efficiently.
  • Expedited order fulfillment with proficient navigation of narrow aisles during the picking process without causing damage or delays.
  • Prevented stock discrepancies by performing routine inventory checks using both manual methods and automated systems.
  • Streamlined order processing by accurately updating inventory management software.
  • Facilitated collaborative work environment, readily assisting colleagues in heavy lifting tasks.
  • Reduced instances of stock discrepancies, meticulously tracking goods received against purchase orders.
  • Increased storage efficiency with strategic pallet stacking and goods placement.
  • Promoted culture of safety, conducting informal peer training on forklift operation safety standards.
  • Achieved high levels of product security by following best practices in cargo handling.
  • Supported inventory accuracy, assisting in periodic stock counts and audits.
  • Maintained clean and safe work environment, contributing to reduction in workplace accidents.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency, regularly updating skills through company-provided training sessions.
  • Contributed to warehouse organization by efficiently utilizing storage spaces and aisles.
  • Assessed equipment for damage, wear, battery life, and fluid levels.
  • Drove equipment from one site to another to deliver tools and complete jobs.
  • Weighed materials or products to record weight or other production data on tags or labels.
  • Reviewed daily production schedules to inform effective prioritization and delegation of tasks.
  • Prevented waste when transferring materials between transport containers and processing equipment.
  • Turned valves and opened chutes to dump, spray or release materials from dump cars or storage bins into hoppers.

Warehouse Associate

Berry Global
10.2022 - 03.2023
  • Prepared orders for shipment by picking, packing, and labeling merchandise.
  • Worked safely around moving machinery.
  • Collaborated with team members to achieve daily targets and complete tasks efficiently.
  • Performed inventory control, such as counting, and stocking merchandise.
  • Assembled orders and packed items for shipment, conveying orders to shipping personnel
  • Displayed adaptability by taking on various roles within the warehouse as needed, including receiving, shipping, or inventory control duties.
  • Consistently met or exceeded productivity targets while maintaining high standards for quality and safety.
  • Increased accuracy in order picking by utilizing electronic scanning devices and following established procedures.
  • Assisted in reducing product damage by properly handling and storing materials.
  • Manually or mechanically loaded and unloaded materials from pallets, skids, platforms, cars, lifting devices, or other transport vehicles
  • Operated various types of equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, or hand trucks safely while moving products throughout the facility.
  • Assisted with reorganizing storage areas to accommodate changes in demand patterns or product offerings.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction through timely shipment of orders, ensuring proper packaging and labeling.
  • Contributed to a cleaner workspace with daily upkeep and scheduled deep cleaning sessions.
  • Loaded, unloaded, and moved material to and from storage and production areas.
  • Used handheld scanners to efficiently track and maneuver freight throughout distribution network.
  • Loaded and unloaded materials onto and off of trucks for fast shipment.
  • Assembled pallets and crates for secure transportation of materials.
  • Operated equipment while observing standard safety procedures.
  • Drove forklifts, pallet jacks and other equipment to move materials.
  • Verified quantity and description of materials received by checking merchandise against packing list.
  • Successfully navigated large shipments of materials through tight spaces and busy facilities.
  • Managed warehouse operations and verified proper shipment procedures.
  • Verified documentation and condition of freight to assure quality standards were achieved.
  • Moved furniture and boxes using utility dolly and truck ramp.
  • Surrounded items in cling film, padded blankets, and tape to protect from damage.
  • Streamlined material delivery processes which increased efficiency and reduced downtime.

Lead Material Handler

Plastipak Packaging Inc.
07.2020 - 08.2022
  • Managed a team of material handlers to ensure optimal productivity, performance, and safety.
  • Spearheaded the implementation of a new warehouse management system, improving overall operational efficiency.
  • Enhanced inventory accuracy with regular audits, data analysis, and process improvements.
  • Minimized product damage by maintaining proper storage conditions and handling techniques.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to support production goals and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Safeguarded warehouse operations by enforcing safety protocols and conducting regular inspections.
  • Achieved high levels of customer satisfaction by ensuring accurate and timely fulfillment of orders.
  • Increased efficiency by streamlining material handling processes and implementing new procedures.
  • Oversaw maintenance schedules for material handling equipment to minimize downtime due to mechanical issues.
  • Reduced lead times for production by optimizing storage layouts and material flow.
  • Implemented cost-saving measures through careful vendor negotiations and strategic sourcing.
  • Coordinated the receipt, inspection, and processing of incoming shipments to maintain accurate inventory records.
  • Alerted supervisors and coworkers of hazards and other issues for quick resolutions.
  • Performed cycle counts and inventory control to accurately track product levels.
  • Used hand-held scanners and physical logs to accurately track item movements.
  • Monitored warehouse to identify missing items, spills, and unusual activity.
  • Listened closely during team meetings to gain complete understanding of duties required for each shift, completing priority tasks first.
  • Unloaded incoming shipments to verify accuracy of deliveries and check possible damages.
  • Kept storage areas organized, clean, and secure to fully protect company assets.
  • Received and unpacked shipments and new equipment as directed.
  • Transported inventory items to appropriate locations.
  • Operated forklifts and pallet jacks to transfer large products from one area of warehouse to another, allowing for easier accessibility.
  • Attached identifying tags to containers to mark with identifying shipping information.
  • Loaded and unloaded materials onto and off of trucks for fast shipment.
  • Operated equipment while observing standard safety procedures.
  • Drove forklifts, pallet jacks and other equipment to move materials.
  • Successfully navigated large shipments of materials through tight spaces and busy facilities.
  • Used machinery and equipment such as box cutters, shrink-wrap guns and electric pallet jacks.
  • Strapped items down over protective padding to secure throughout transportation.
  • Streamlined material delivery processes which increased efficiency and reduced downtime.
  • Assembled pallets and crates for secure transportation of materials.
  • Used handheld scanners to efficiently track and maneuver freight throughout distribution network.
  • Maintained clean, orderly work environment free of hazards.
  • Verified quantity and description of materials received by checking merchandise against packing list.
  • Managed warehouse operations and verified proper shipment procedures.
  • Verified documentation and condition of freight to assure quality standards were achieved.

Education

High School Diploma -

Minster High School
Minster, OH
05-2019

Skills

  • Customer service
  • Strong leadership qualities
  • Empathy and patience
  • Active listening
  • Effective communication
  • Fleet management expertise
  • Safety procedures
  • Fuel efficiency strategies
  • Logistics coordination experience
  • Team building
  • Driver scheduling
  • Conflict resolution techniques
  • Data analysis proficiency
  • Delivery scheduling
  • Materials tracking
  • Route management
  • Driver training
  • Driver evaluation
  • Safety issues monitoring
  • Driver training proficiency
  • Driver coordination
  • Load securement
  • Stress management techniques
  • Technology-savvy
  • Productivity standards implementation
  • Load distribution
  • Route planning expertise
  • Time management proficiency
  • Strong leadership
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Cleaning and sanitizing
  • Warehouse safety
  • Reliability
  • Worker supervision
  • Critical thinking
  • Organizational skills
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Warehouse organization
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Team leadership
  • Decision-making
  • Heavy lifting
  • Detail-oriented
  • Warehouse operations
  • Order picking and processing
  • Logistics analysis
  • Distribution and warehousing
  • Data entry
  • Safety protocols
  • Forklift operation
  • Shipment tracking
  • Work Planning and Prioritization
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Forklift operations
  • Analytical thinking
  • Operations management
  • Documentation
  • Goal setting
  • Professionalism
  • Warehouse logistics

Timeline

Driver/Manager/Personal Trainer

Turtle Logist-x
07.2023 - Current

Forklift Operator

Cascades Tissue Group
03.2023 - 07.2023

Warehouse Associate

Berry Global
10.2022 - 03.2023

Lead Material Handler

Plastipak Packaging Inc.
07.2020 - 08.2022

12N Horizontal Construction Engineer

US Army Reserve
08.2019 - 03.2025

High School Diploma -

Minster High School