Spencer Willis, Director of Operations C Three Logistics

Spencer Willis didn’t start in logistics; his first career was as an EMT and firefighter in his New Jersey town. When he applied at Papco LLC, with Henry S. Papiano, he planned to take any job offered. When Papiano found out his background, he made Willis a dispatcher. In 2016, Papiano founded C Three Logistics, which specializes in the transportation of hazardous materials, and in 2018, Willis joined the team, moving up through the ranks from lead dispatcher to vice president of operations.

Willis’ main focus has been on improving the experience for drivers and customers of C Three Logistics, with a goal of increasing retention of both. This meant implementing cloud software that could manage the paperwork that comes along with transporting hazardous materials.

“The driver already has enough on his plate just to drive a truck safely down the road,” Willis said. “Streamlining the paperwork for the driver so the customer [could] receive it within 24 hours was a huge problem to overcome. … This software allows the driver to scan images on his smartphone, which goes to the customer immediately.”

Willis said C Three Logistics is also working to implement automation that alerts dispatchers and customers when a load has arrived at its destination.

For Willis, growing technology offerings should keep the entire supply chain in mind. While he isn’t against artificial intelligence and automation, he said it’s important to maintain face-to-face relationships with everyone involved in the transaction, from the office staff to the customer. The technology he has implemented at C Three Logistics has been done with this goal in mind.

“My philosophy revolves around proactive problem-solving and dedication to customer satisfaction, ensuring seamless logistics and support for propane users nationwide,” he said.

With his background as a first responder, Willis has also worked to help train local fire departments on hazmat response, which improves safety for drivers and the public they encounter.

“[The public] hears hazmat and everybody starts freaking out,” he said. “Continually educating the responders and the drivers on what to do and what not to do makes them a little more comfortable when a situation arises.”

Willis is an advocate for renewable propane and sustainable energy solutions, working to educate the public and lawmakers about propane’s efficiency.

“We definitely have to get the word out using the technology we already have at our fingertips,” he said. “Whether that’s Facebook ads or commercials. … We need to push that propane is just as good [as other green options].”