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News | July 21, 2015

Anniston’s Kihlstadius receives Global Distribution Excellence: Vehicle/MHE Management Civilian of the Year

By Jessica Roman DLA Distribution Public Affairs

Michael Kihlstadius, equipment specialist at Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Anniston, Ala., has been awarded the 2014 Global Distribution Excellence Award: Vehicle/MHE Management Civilian of the Year for his work in developing the MHE training program at the distribution center.

Kihlstadius is the founder and senior material handling equipment trainer for DLA Distribution Anniston.  He instructed and supervised more than 90 employees, resulting in an increase in operator knowledge and a program that has been recognized by DLA Distribution headquarters.

He was instrumental in attaining a certified “train the trainer” course for overhead cranes.  “This training has improved not only our operations, but also safety within the organization and morale of the employees using the overhead cranes,” said Army Lt. Col. Hattie Richardson, the distribution center’s commander.

Kihlstadius helped to create a computer-based training classroom, which doubled the capacity for computer training sessions.  He also created a video teleconferencing and proctor-based training classroom that can accommodate large-scale training sessions that support sister distribution centers and other organizations on the installation.

As a part of the vehicle and MHE licensing program, Kihlstadius developed a database system to ensure employee licenses are valid, and that training documentation is on file to support the licenses.

“Mr. Kihlstadius is an invaluable asset to our organization,” said Richardson.  “He is highly-reliable, has an industrious attitude, and promotes high morale and good will for us all.”