Mike Flores

When asked to describe his team after winning the Lean Problem Solvers award in February 2015, shipping manager Mike “Hollywood” Flores simply said, “unstoppable.” Two months later, Flores’ coworkers are saying the same about him.

“He deals with a lot of back orders on a consistent basis and does whatever it takes to get the product to the customer when promised,” says Chris Allgood, production manager at Western Window Systems. “And Hollywood does it all without skipping a beat.”

One of the biggest challenges for Flores, who started with the company in 2010, has been Western Window Systems’ phenomenal growth over the past few years. Challenged to find ways to accomplish more with less time and space, Flores continually looks for ways his department can be more efficient. Recently, he brokered deals with several new vendors. As a result, the company has benefited from lower costs, improved quality, and enhanced customer service.

And Flores knows that to succeed, a good team is key.

“He’s focused on growing his people,” Allgood says. “He knows that making his employees better makes Western better.”

Congratulations to Mike Flores, Western Window Systems’ manager of the quarter.

Where did you grow up?
Mesa, Arizona

Do you have any pets?
Yes, a Chihuahua named Chi-Chi.

Do you play any sports?
I like snowboarding, boxing, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

What is your favorite hobby?
I love drawing, painting, and building anything with my hands.

Who do you look up to/admire?
My mom and dad.

What is your favorite quote?
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” – Benjamin Franklin

Where do you like to vacation?
Anywhere as long as I have family and a good attitude.

What is your favorite sport and/or team?
MMA — my favorite fighters are B.J. Penn and Cain Velasquez.

What’s your favorite food?
Mexican food.

What’s your favorite movie?
Friday and Blazing Saddles.