Young Professionals of Atlas band together as the next generation of leaders

Atlas Van Lines is stepping forward to acknowledge the fact that there is an inadequate pipeline of young or new workers entering the moving and storage industry. With support from Chairman & CEO Glen Dunkerson, the Atlas family is backing the development of young professionals with a new networking group. YPAtlas was born out of the knowledge that there are not enough opportunities for young professionals to interact, share best practices, or receive professional support.

“YPAtlas is a wonderful opportunity for us to illustrate to those joining Atlas that there is a future within our organization and within the industry,” said YPAtlas Co-Chair Lauren Falls, Marketing Specialist, Atlas Van Lines. “This group was formed to help prevent the moving and storage industry from losing gifted future leaders.”

Co-Chair Alexandra Meyer, Manager of Corporate Development, DMS Moving Systems, Inc. (0800), agreed. She said, “We need a place to engage in the early stages of our careers because we don’t face the same challenges or decisions as those who have been in the industry for many years.”

The YPAtlas mission is to inspire, engage and empower the next generation of leaders within the Atlas family through networking and leadership development opportunities. The group is open to all employees of Atlas HQ, affiliates and agencies who demonstrate potential for advancement and growth. Members can expect to gain exposure to Atlas leadership and agents, connect with peers across the family of companies, and learn from educational sessions.

“Through accessible training opportunities, meetings, and social gatherings, young professionals are given a chance to make connections with each other, discuss issues that impact them, and help create a stronger community. We have some very exciting events planned for 2015, which include virtual workshops, member events at Atlas HQ, and functions at industry and Atlas events,” said Lauren. 

“The response we’ve received thus far has been very positive. Over 60 people joined in the first two weeks of opening the group. We’ve spoken to members of the board of directors, Atlas senior management, and agent owners, who all recognize a need for a young professionals group. Our thanks go out to Glen Dunkerson, who has been kind enough to sponsor YPAtlas,” added Alex

“I chose to sponsor this group because it is important to facilitate the exchange of knowledge from current leaders in our company to the up-and-coming young professionals,” Glen said. “We are taking charge of the future growth and development of the moving and storage industry by arming its next set of leaders with the appropriate tools.”