Introducing: Erik Sikich (pictured right)

• Lens Inventory Manager
• 9 months with Cherry Optical, Inc

What do you do for Cherry Optical, Inc?

I ensure the correct lens blanks are pulled from our inventory for each job we receive. I order lenses on an as-needed basis to maintain appropriate and accurate lean inventory levels on-site. Our proximity and part ownership of Global Optics, Inc allows us to make a quick trip back and forth to refill stock multiple times a day. The longest a lens sits on our shelves is 2-3 hours before it is used to fill an order.

Why is Cherry Optical, Inc a good fit for you?

I am a very analytical person, so maintaining order and organization is fun for me. "A place for everything and everything in its place" is my motto and top priority. I enjoy the challenge of keeping a slim inventory while also minimizing wait time. It would be easy to overstock everything or conversely just order what we need. Maintaining a balance in between is a unique challenge.

What does it take to be a successful employee at Cherry Optical, Inc?

Aside from showing up on time and doing what is required, expanding your knowledge and trying to improve existing systems in the workplace. There is always room for improvement and there are always lessons to be learned. For example: When something is flagged, it's usually important. So, whether you're in the workplace or out, don't let it get past you or you may make a mistake... Like accidentally walking through the freshly poured concrete at the end of your shift. Oops!

What do you find most satisfying?

My job is very visual. I'm constantly looking at stacks and stacks of trays that need to be filled. Boxes of lenses that need to get into trays. Getting them out of my room and into the lab is my priority. It's nice to have visual feedback on progress as opposed to say a stack of papers in a box. When I see a nice clean stock room I know I'm making progress.

What makes Cherry Optical, Inc different?

While I don't have any experience with other labs, I can still compare to other places I've worked. Cherry Optical, Inc listens to it's employees. If you have a problem or a kink in your workflow, you can always make suggestions and try out new things. They understand that there is always room for improvement and sometimes that means new tools, new organizational methods, etc. Even as the business grows, we maintain a startup feel.

What are the biggest challenges?

Definitely learning the opticianry side of things. This is a newer field for me, and there is a lot for me to learn so I try to pick up a little more every day.

What is the secret behind Cherry's success?

If I told it wouldn't be a secret now would it?

What area of optical technology excites you the most?

I enjoy the machinery and electronics involved. While I don't actively use them for my job, I'm always talking to our lab managers asking questions about how/why things work.

What music are you embarrassed to like?

90's Girl bands: The Cranberries, The Cardigans, Alanis Morrisette, etc. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yam5uK6e-bQ

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy recreational computer programming and writing music.

What Is Your Weapon Of Choice For The Impending Zombie Apocalypse?

In lieu of a weapon, I would open up a Zombie Buffet/Community College. I would propose that we dig up the dead, serve them buffet style and have college professors give seminars during their meals. Zombies need access to basic services too; just because you're born a brain eating zombie doesn't mean you have to grow up to be one. We need to start with basic healthcare and education. Zombies are people too!

What historical figure has worn glasses best?

Elton John