Lynden is recognizing employees who make a difference every day on the job and demonstrate our core values, Lynden's very own everyday heroes! Employees are nominated by managers and supervisors from all roles within the Lynden family of companies.
Introducing Vince Clara, Commodities Transportation Specialist at LTI, Inc. in Sunnyside, Washington. 
Name: Vince Clara
Company: LTI, Inc.
Title: Commodities Transportation Specialist
Location: Sunnyside, WA
On the Job Since: 2021
Superpower: Creative problem solving
Hometown: Prosser, WA
Favorite Movie: The Big Short
Bucket List Destination: Greece
For Fun: Watching sports and spending time with family
How and when did you start working for LTI, Inc.?
Before I started working for LTI, Inc., I was the Bulk Wine Transportation Specialist at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates. I was hired as the Commodities Transportation Specialist in 2021.
What is a typical day like for you?
My day usually starts before I get to the office, handling urgent issues and sending updates or requests to customers. Once I arrive to the office, I manage customer freight bookings, give rate quotes, and keep track of available trucks and resources in real time.
What has been most challenging in your career?
Managing equipment and resources to keep running efficiently and profitably.
What are you most proud of in your career?
Building strong relationships with current and potential customers by staying in touch, understanding their transportation needs, providing reliable and timely service, and quickly fixing any issues to keep their trust and satisfaction.
Can you tell us about your family and growing up years?
I grew up in an agricultural family with six brothers. My dad was a ranch foreman who managed irrigation for hop and grape fields, so he worked long days and started early. In the evenings, my brothers and I would sometimes help him, though we mostly enjoyed riding the four-wheeler. Because he worked so much, we also had chores after school like taking out the trash, mowing the lawn, and pruning trees. At the time, I didn’t realize he was teaching us responsibility and a strong work ethic.
My mom made sure we stayed focused on school and always encouraged us to do our best for a better future. She is very religious, and we went to mass every Sunday, which taught us the importance of doing the right thing. My upbringing was simple, but it helped shape who I am today.
What was your first job?
My first job was in 7th grade, working on a farm during the cherry harvest where I dumped cherries into a bin.
What would surprise most people about you?
I attended the NFC Wild Card playoff game (Seahawks vs Saints) in 2011 that caused the "Beast Quake."
How do you spend your time outside of work?
I enjoy watching my kids play sports and doing yard work to unwind.
What do you like best about your job?
Working together as a team on new projects to exceed customer expectations.
Topics from this blog: Lynden LTI Inc. Lynden Employees Everyday Heroes Featured