NWP Employee Spotlight: Troy Anthony

NWP Employee Spotlight Series:
Illuminating Stories from the People of Northwest Pipe

At Northwest Pipe Company, our team members are the foundation of our success, and we take pride in our diverse and talented workforce. This series shares the inspiring stories and career journeys of employees from different departments and locations. In each installment, we interview one of our team members and delve into their experiences, challenges, and accomplishments, and discover why they choose to build their career with Northwest Pipe Company.

Spotlight on: Troy Anthony

Senior Buyer & ISO MR | Portland, OR

As Senior Buyer and ISO MR (Management Representative) for Northwest Pipe Company’s engineered steel pipe plant in Portland, Oregon, Troy Anthony is responsible for buying everything needed for the facility to operate (with the exception of steel coils, which are procured by the Corporate Purchasing team). In his ISO MR role, he oversees the Portland plant’s ISO Quality Management System, performs internal ISO audits for other NWP plants, and assists the Corporate IT department. Occasionally adding to his duties, he also fills in for the Traffic Coordinator and the Materials Manager as needed. In the 26 years since he joined Northwest Pipe, Troy has worn many hats, and he’s happy to offer cross-departmental support and share his wealth of knowledge with others.

Tell us about your career experience – how did you find your way to your current role?

I did a few jobs prior to Northwest Pipe. Some included Customer Service Agent for Reno Air at PDX, Manager at World Gym, and Cabinet Maker at a cabinet shop. My first job with NWP was as a Traffic Coordinator Assistant at the Portland plant. In the 26 years since I joined Northwest Pipe, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of roles, including Yard Coordinator, Production Coordinator, Receiving Coordinator, Scheduler/Planner, Traffic Coordinator, and Buyer.

Looking back at when you first applied – what made you want to join Northwest Pipe?

My wife and I were about to have our first child and I was looking for a career with good benefits. A friend of mine referred me to Northwest Pipe.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

One thing I like about the different job duties I have is that every day can be very different. That said, a typical day consists of working with vendors to get the products and services we need, working with Accounts Payable on invoices and PO’s, assisting the IT department or end users on computer or network issues, and managing the ISO Quality Management System. Depending on the day, I could be covering for the Traffic Coordinator or Materials Manager.

What do you look forward to each day at work – what keeps you coming back?

Over the years, Northwest Pipe has become like a family to me. I really enjoy the friends I’ve made, not only at the Portland plant, but other locations as well.

Describe a favorite project you’ve worked on so far.

My favorite project was the implementation of our SAP system. I went to SAP training classes in the US and Canada and brought back what I learned and helped the consultants configure SAP for Northwest Pipe. Once the implementation was done, I created training material and trained others.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

I enjoy everything I’ve learned over the years, and it’s rewarding to be able to help and share what I know with others.

Which of the Northwest Pipe Company ACT Values (Accountability, Commitment, Teamwork) resonates most for you in your role?

They all go hand in hand, but if I had to choose one, I’d say Teamwork. We are all in this together.

What stands out to you about the culture at Northwest Pipe Company?

Northwest Pipe Company has a growth mindset. Not only to grow the Company, but for employee growth as well—providing individuals the opportunity to learn, challenge themselves, and advance their careers.

What advice do you have for someone starting a career in your field?

We all have something to learn and something to share. Never stop learning and take advantage of any available training or support from other employees. Also, share and be a resource for other employees as well. Lastly, know that Accountability, Commitment, and Teamwork are crucial for success.

Is there someone at NWP who has inspired or motivated you along your career journey?

The person that has inspired me through her hard work and dedication to Northwest Pipe Company and her team is Janet Marambe (Materials Manager). She has always motivated and challenged me to be my best. Janet never shies away from any challenge and always leads by example.

Name one thing that always brightens your day outside of work.

Spending time with my family and friends.

How does working at NWP help you maintain a work-life balance?

With weekends off and available vacation time, I’m able to get out and do the things I enjoy. One of my favorite hobbies is photography. I also love being outdoors, so I really enjoy things like camping, hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Oftentimes, I have my camera with me to take some nice photos.