05 Dec 2024
The team at Arrive consists of a variety of talented individuals who come from great universities all across the country. We sat down with AJ Burleson, Carrier Operations Sales Specialist, to learn more about his path from Texas Tech to Arrive, and advice he has for soon-to-be college graduates considering a career in logistics.
Where did you go to school and how did you first hear about Arrive?
I went to school at Texas Tech University and graduated in December 2020. I earned my degree in Advertising from the College of Media and Communication. I first heard about Arrive from one of my friends from high school. He had been working at Arrive for about a year and told me all about it. He said the job is a lot of hard work, but it pays off in the long run. He also told me about how great and relatable the culture was. I was referred to Arrive and I also applied online. From there, I went through the interview process and was hired. I officially started in January 2021.
How did you become interested in going into supply chain & sales?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I became really interested in supply chain. I thought it was amazing how I could order something on Amazon and it would get to my door so quickly, sometimes within hours. I understood that the supply chain industry was sustainable and would be improving, especially with no one wanting to leave their house at the time. Supply chain is here to stay and that’s what really drew me to it.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job at Arrive is the people who I work with. I really enjoy each person I interact with on a daily basis. I feel like I’ve known them forever, everyone is so welcoming. I also love how every day in my job is different. There is no routine and it really keeps things exciting.
What keeps you at Arrive?
There are so many things that keep me at Arrive – the great benefits, the flexibility, the casual dress, the culture, and of course, the people. I really love working with the people here at Arrive.
Have any advice for soon-to-be college grads?
Start the job search sooner rather than later, and always keep your options open. Try not to have tunnel vision on one set thing, you never know what could happen and what else is out there. Also, when applying for positions, always make sure you are educated on both the job and the company you are applying for.
If you could go back in time and tell your college self one thing, what would it be?
If I could go back and tell myself one thing, it would be to prepare more and try not to wait and do things until the last minute. Also, ask more questions! You can never be too curious and ask too many questions.
For someone about to start a career in logistics, what would you tell them?
My advice would be to prepare for the worst, and hope for the best. There is never a dull moment, so be ready to handle multitasking in extreme moments. Be prepared to work from the time you sit down in the morning until you walk out the door. And ask questions! Try to soak up as much information as you can.
Describe Arrive in 3 hashtags!
#Motivating
#Intensity
#Excitement
