Jose Rivera

Western Window Systems’ elite Special Western Action Team (SWAT) is responsible for keeping the flow of production going smoothly.


To be selected for SWAT, an employee must demonstrate an ability to learn and work a variety of positions in the shop and be able to impart their knowledge to others.

Jose Rivera embodies those qualities. He started working in the shop on the assembly line for the Series 900 Hinged Door in October 2016, and quickly mastered his post. “Jose learned at an accelerated rate,” says Jason Wengert, SWAT and door panels manager. “He puts his whole heart into it.”

He can execute every step in building a door, from making the panels to constructing the frame to glazing. “There’s a lot that goes into that door,” Wengert says. “It’s a substantial amount for one guy to do.”

After starting his career in doors, Rivera worked in the hardware department, operated CNC machines, and learned the saw position. “He knows the whole assembly process from start to finish,” Wengert says.

Wengert says Rivera’s well of knowledge and ability to teach others made him a great candidate for SWAT. “At any given moment, he’ll move into a position, and he’ll just jump in without any hesitation,” Wengert says. “When it comes to cross-training, this guy goes above and beyond. I can count on him at any time.”

Congratulations, Jose Rivera, on being Western Window Systems’ shop employee of the month on day shift for October!