Our heart is our talent, and we do everything possible to inspire the people that drive our company. This employee spotlight series will offer an inside look into the culture and community that make up PJ. Learn more, firsthand, from the people who have found a home here. Today we will learn more about Tyler Ubinger, winner of the 2017 Community Service Award.
A few words from Craig Parsons (President)
In early 2017, Tyler Ubinger started asking about having a full month off so the he could ride this event called the Tour Divide, a crazy, unsupported, off-road race from Canada to Mexico. One breakfast with Michael Johnson later (then-CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Dane County), Tyler was suddenly the Honorary Chairman of the Bike4BGC, by far the Club's largest fundraiser of the year.
Tyler took the title seriously. He spent many hours pre-Tour Divide volunteering with a partner organization of the BGC, Bikes4Kids, repairing donated bikes that would later be given to kids at the BGC. He made appearances at fundraising events for the Bike4BGC at the Capital Brewery & at the Club itself. He was in the spotlight in the local media, giving interviews to several local TV stations. And finally, the BGC held a send-off for Tyler at one of its Clubs where he spent time talking to groups of kids about his upcoming ride & ceremonially rode through a send-off ribbon.
Then came the ride itself - 2,400 grueling miles of unsupported, off-road racing. Tyler truly was inspired by his role, riding for the kids. He mentioned several times that the thought that he was out there riding for the BGC kids kept him going. He was out there for 22 days & nights, riding in rain, snow, wind, darkness, mostly riding on his own. Along the way, his phone was stolen so for the last 7 days, he was entirely off the grid.
Tyler's monumental effort helped raise more than $44,000 for the BGC. He personally raised a big chunk of the total. And certainly his leadership & courage helped PJ raise the rest. For his incredible effort & dedication, Tyler is the clear winner of our inaugural Community Service Award.
And stay tuned, folks, rumor has it that Tyler might be taking on an even greater challenge in 2019, once again getting on his bike to ride for the kids of the Boys & Girls Club!
What inspires you to come to work everyday?
To learn and grow as a technician and human...and my paycheck.
What is your favorite part about working for PJ?
There is not one favorite. PJ employs good people and has many benefits that make it a great place to work.
What are three words to describe PJ?
Motivated. Evolving. Community.
What is your favorite PJ perk?
PJ points, company outings, snacks, etc.
List five hashtags that describe you
What is your favorite travel spot?
Locally, I enjoy exploring the Upper Peninsula of Michigan near the shores of Lake Superior. I also enjoy playing in the mountains out west or anywhere for that matter.
What is your most over used word/phrase?
At work...F#$%! Under my breath of course:)
What would you like to be famous for?
I would like to be famous for the first person to bike on the moon.
What is your favorite thing to do?
Ride bikes....duh!!
What is an ability you wish you had?
The ability to teleport.
