Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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James Thomas

New Whiteland,IN

Summary

Results-oriented logistics and operations leader with over 15 years of progressive experience in team supervision, supply chain management, fleet maintenance, and hazardous materials handling. Proven expertise in leading diverse teams of up to 40 personnel, optimizing distribution processes, and ensuring compliance with stringent safety and regulatory standards. Military veteran skilled in high-pressure environments, process improvement, and talent development, seeking to transition leadership abilities into a civilian role in logistics, transportation, or operations management.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience

Work History

Sergeant (Section Leader, Distribution Platoon)

Army National Guard
03.2024 - 12.2025
  • Directed logistics operations for a distribution platoon, coordinating convoy movements, fuel distribution, and ammunition delivery while supervising 15-20 soldiers and managing a fleet of 8-10 trucks, 2 HUMVEEs, and 4-6 trailers.
  • Ensured operational readiness and adherence to safety protocols in dynamic environments, maintaining high standards of unit cohesion and mission execution.
  • Full-Time Active Duty

Route Sales Driver

Tank Traders Midwest
04.2022 - 02.2023
  • Expanded and serviced customer accounts across Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois, delivering liquid propane and grill cylinders while managing inventory of over 3,000 cylinders, including recycling of empties.
  • Performed preventative maintenance and organization for a fleet of 4 commercial trucks and 2 forklifts, upholding the highest safety standards for hazardous materials handling.
  • Developed new business opportunities, facilitated account setups, and secured Tanker Endorsement and TWIC Card to enhance operational capabilities.

Sergeant (Section Leader, COVID-19 Relief Operations)

Army National Guard
04.2020 - 03.2022
  • Led teams of 20-40 soldiers across multiple nursing home facilities in southern Indiana, providing critical support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Coordinated resource allocation, scheduling, and compliance measures to ensure effective crisis response and personnel welfare.
  • Full-Time Active Duty

Route Sales Supervisor

Velvet Ice Cream
06.2019 - 04.2020
  • Supervised 6-10 route delivery drivers and 2 helpers, managing route scheduling, employee performance evaluations, DOT compliance monitoring, and accident investigations.
  • Optimized load assignments and resolved operational issues to guarantee timely pickups and deliveries, enhancing overall efficiency.

Sergeant (Squad Leader)

Army National Guard
09.2017 - 05.2019
  • Developed and implemented talent development programs to empower team members with greater responsibilities, fostering professional growth.
  • Led 8-10-person squads in achieving operational objectives, providing strategic guidance and supporting cross-functional initiatives.
  • Full-Time Active Duty

Route Sales Trainer

Oberweis Dairy
07.2015 - 08.2017
  • Delivered comprehensive training to new and existing drivers on product knowledge, sales techniques, DOT safety regulations, routing systems, and company software.
  • Optimized delivery routes to reduce driving distances and schedules while preserving customer service quality.
  • Conducted vehicle maintenance training to promote a safe and efficient working environment.

Route Sales Driver

Ice Mountain Water (Nestlé)
03.2014 - 05.2015
  • Managed inventory control for cold stock and dry products, loading/unloading vehicles, and transporting goods to clients throughout Central Indiana.
  • Maintained communication with operations teams to prioritize workflows, prevent shortages/overstock, and monitor product allocation statistics.
  • Performed pre-trip inspections and preventative maintenance in compliance with Department of Transportation regulations; provided ongoing team training.

Packaging Supervisor

Safety Vehicle Emblem
03.2010 - 02.2014
  • Supervised a 4-member warehouse team, ensuring timely execution of customer orders with full compliance to quality and accuracy standards.
  • Oversaw packing, order processing, freight handling (UPS, FedEx), and forklift operations.
  • Designed and implemented an improved packaging process that reduced processing time by nearly 50% and lowered shipping material costs; process remains in use as a company best practice.

Education

Graduate Certificate - Sergeant Leadership Course

Army National Guard
Columbus, OH

High School Diploma -

Shelby County High School
Shelbyville, KY
05.2006

Skills

  • Leadership & Team Management: Supervised teams of up to 40; talent development; performance evaluations
  • Logistics & Supply Chain: Inventory management; route optimization; distribution coordination
  • Fleet & Maintenance: Preventative maintenance; vehicle inspections; hazardous materials handling
  • Safety & Compliance: DOT regulations; hazardous materials standards; accident investigations
  • Certifications: Tanker Endorsement; TWIC Card
  • Other: Process improvement; customer account management; crisis response

Timeline

Sergeant (Section Leader, Distribution Platoon)

Army National Guard
03.2024 - 12.2025

Route Sales Driver

Tank Traders Midwest
04.2022 - 02.2023

Sergeant (Section Leader, COVID-19 Relief Operations)

Army National Guard
04.2020 - 03.2022

Route Sales Supervisor

Velvet Ice Cream
06.2019 - 04.2020

Sergeant (Squad Leader)

Army National Guard
09.2017 - 05.2019

Route Sales Trainer

Oberweis Dairy
07.2015 - 08.2017

Route Sales Driver

Ice Mountain Water (Nestlé)
03.2014 - 05.2015

Packaging Supervisor

Safety Vehicle Emblem
03.2010 - 02.2014

Graduate Certificate - Sergeant Leadership Course

Army National Guard

High School Diploma -

Shelby County High School