Member Spotlight: Get to Know Melissa Wilson

We're continuing to feature members of our club. If you'd like to be featured, please send a note to Jennifer Kifer, VP of Communications, at communications@propclubjax.com. This month, get to know Melissa Wilson, TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico LLC.Propeller Club Member: Melissa WilsonCompany Name: TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico LLCTitle: Pricing AnalystEmail: mwilson@totemaritime.comWhere are you from/hometown?Gallipolis, OHIf not Jacksonville, how long have you lived in Jacksonville? 36 YearsBriefly explain your job and major responsibilities:As a Pricing Analyst, I am responsible for contract negotiations and strategic planning for the organization; as well as providing compensatory and competitive rates while maximizing revenue/profitability and market share for the organization.How long have you worked at your current job?14 YearsWhat's your favorite part of your job?The ability to be analytical and think outside the box to achieve the end result.Any prior employment you'd like to share?I received my first opportunity to enter the maritime industry through a high school work study program my senior year at Crowley in 1997.  I had the privilege of going to school for a half day and then working the other half.  My interest for the maritime industry grew and after high school I was offered a full time position at Crowley followed by Hamburg Sud with roles in Pricing, Customer Service, Special Accounts and Freight Audit. In 2003, I joined TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico and have been working in the Pricing Department since then as a Pricing Analyst.If you went to college, where did you go and what was your major/minor/degree?University of North Florida ("Go Ospreys") - B.S. Business Management;  Florida State College at Jacksonville (Formerly FCCJ) - A.S. Business Management and A.S. Marketing ManagementHow long have you been a member of the Propeller Club?Over 10 YearsWhy did you join the club? Please also include your favorite thing about the Propeller Club.I joined the Propeller Club for the networking opportunities and to stay informed about what is going on in the maritime industry.  This club has given me the visibility and connections to people and places that I never would have been able to be a part of without them. Thank you Propeller Club!What is your favorite Propeller Club event?State of the PortFamily/Significant Other/Pets?Married to my husband, Jay Wilson, for 16 years with no children.  However, we are blessed with two beautiful and sweet "Shih Tzu Fur Babies"... Mya (12 years old) and Mateo (9 years).What is your proudest moment/achievement?My proudest achievement was finally graduating from college with my B.S.  I told myself in high school that even though I would have to work full time and go to school at night that I would get my college degree.  After many long nights (and years) with an unwavering determination to succeed...I achieved my goal.  What a great feeling of accomplishment!What is something unique about you that you'd like to share...hobby/hidden talent/award?A friend introduced me to kayaking last year and I fell in love.  I have had the opportunity to kayak in several springs such as Silver Springs, Blue Springs and Juniper Springs.  Just gorgeous!!!Anything else you'd like members of the club to know about you? I am a proud Past President of the Propeller Club serving the club from 2011-2012 and have served on the Board of Governors since 2008.