A Day in the Life of a Gallery Leather Production Team Member
Our incredible Production Team Members are the backbone of our company. Without them, we wouldn’t have our high-quality products that many know and love. They are the “Swiss Army Knife” of employees as they can do almost anything that is asked of them, from cutting the leather by hand to bagging books and everything in between. We hope you enjoy reading this blog and learning more about the people who put their hearts into everything they make.
On a normal day, when the Production team arrives at 7:00 am, they get right to work on their tasks. For some, that’s operating a machine that cuts the leather into the correct sizes. Others are stamping the cover with whatever the product requires.
While they have their specific roles, the team is always able to pivot. If that’s stopping the entire factory to bag and sticker books so they can meet a delivery date, or an all-hands-on-deck product build, they are always asking “how can I help?” and filling in any unforeseen gaps.
Not Just A Beautiful Product
Meet some of the people who help bring your planner, journal, album, or organizer to life.
Andrew Chattin – Floor Supervisor
Andrew joined our team in 2008 as a machine operator. He was the head machine operator until 2023, when he was promoted to Production Supervisor. Before working at Gallery Leather, Andrew spent 5 years as a sternman on a lobster boat. Andrew is a proud father of four amazing young boys.
Favorite Product:
Large Monthly Planner
Favorite Leather Color:
Tremont Garnet
Favorite Hobby:
“First and foremost, being a dad! I also really enjoy ice fishing.”
What do you like most about your job?
“I like being part of a team that comes together in many different ways to make fine, handcrafted leather products. It’s worth mentioning that the hours we work are hard to beat.”
Jon Eastman – Lead Machine Operator
Jon joined our team in 2019, but before his time here, he worked at Dysarts in customer service for 18 years. His background in customer service enables him to work closely with his team and produce high-quality products.
Favorite Product:
Large Journal
Favorite Leather Color:
Acadia Cactus
Favorite Hobby:
Fishing
What do you like most about your job?
“I like the crew. Everyone gets along, and I have made a lot of good friends.”
Rita Bunker – Machine Operator
Rita joined our team in 2015, but before her time here, she worked at Hinckley Yachts. She likes to stay busy, and with her grandchildren and husband, it’s easy to do!
Favorite Product:
Gallery Photo Album
Favorite Leather Color:
Freeport Metallic Purple
Favorite Hobby:
Fourwheeling
What do you like most about your job?
“Being able to work alongside coworkers who have become friends and produce high-quality products. I also love how the leadership is always there, offering a helping hand.”
TJ DesJardin – Lead Stamper
TJ joined our team in 2019, but before his time here, he worked at Wild Acadia Fun Zone for a season during his sophomore year of high school. After his mother suggested he should apply here, he did and has been ever since.
Favorite Product:
Large Journal
Favorite Leather Color:
Monhegan Black
Favorite Hobby:
Fishing
What do you like most about your job?
“Being able to stamp other companies’ logos onto our products. I have the opportunity to work with every book before it gets shipped out.”
Barry Fickett – Warehouse Manager
Barry joined our team in 2007, but before his time here, he worked at Stinson Seafood, where he worked in their warehouse. Barry is often seen on or around the forklift, making sure our warehouse is always clean and organized.
Favorite Product:
Large Spiritual Journal
Favorite Leather Color:
Acadia Green
Favorite Hobby:
Hiking
What do you like most about your job?
“Driving the forklift and developing better ways to do work in the factory.”
The next time you purchase an item from Gallery Leather, know that Melissa, Carl, Andrew, Levi, Rita, Andrea, John, TJ, Barry, Jon, Dwayne, and Rob all helped make it so special.
I want to thank all of our Production Team Members for everything they do! We wouldn’t be here without them.
– Keegan Plourde
Gallery Leather Marketing Team