Andrew Eeten

Andrew Eeten boasts over a decade of professional experience in sales and management, with significant roles at companies such as T-Mobile and Stanton Optical. Throughout his career, he has cultivated strong customer service and leadership capabilities. He is driven by a passion for aiding others, achieving continuous personal growth, and living a balanced, fulfilling life.

Early Life and Education

Andrew Eeten, also affectionately known as AJ, was born on December 20, 1986, in Galesburg, Illinois. During his formative years at Eureka Schools, he demonstrated outstanding academic performance, earning him a place in the National Honor Society, a distinction awarded to students who excel academically. He was equally active in sports, participating in basketball and track. His involvement in track culminated in being part of a 1A state champion team, marking a significant achievement in his early athletic career.

His educational journey continued with a basketball scholarship to Illinois Central College (ICC), where he dedicated himself to his studies and improving his athletic skills. After two years at ICC, he transferred to Northern Illinois University to broaden his academic horizon, majoring in Physical Education with a minor in Spanish.

Early Career in Education

After university, he embarked on a career in public education, where he took on roles as a teacher and coach in several schools. He found joy in mentoring students and fostering their growth. Despite his enjoyment, he eventually felt the pull towards exploring new professional avenues that would offer different challenges and growth opportunities.

Transition to Retail Sales

March 2017 marked a pivotal change in his career when he decided to step away from education and enter the retail sales industry. He began managing a T-Mobile store in Washington, Illinois. In this role, he oversaw daily store operations, assisted customers with their wireless product needs, and managed store-specific projects, including marketing efforts and audits.

Career Growth at Stanton Optical

His career trajectory took another positive turn in 2019 when he assumed a managerial position at Stanton Optical in Peoria, Illinois. In this capacity, he enhanced his expertise in eye care products, aiding customers in selecting appropriate eyewear and educating them on proper care for their glasses and contact lenses. He also managed product inventory and handled customer orders, further refining his customer service skills.

In December 2023, he transitioned to the role of an optician at the Vision Care Center, also in Peoria. Here, he reviewed customer information for glasses and contact lenses, measured clients' eyes, and assisted them in choosing the proper eyewear. His commitment to customer education ensured that each client left feeling confident and satisfied with their eyewear choices.

Skills and Expertise

Across various positions, Andrew has developed an impressive array of skills. He is renowned for his exceptional time management and organizational abilities. He is adept at managing multiple tasks simultaneously and efficiently solving problems as they arise. His attention to detail is meticulous, whether interacting with customers or managing store inventory.

Another strength is his adaptability, allowing him to learn new tasks and responsibilities quickly. His extensive experience in sales and customer service enables him to thrive in both team environments and individual settings. Additionally, he is proficient with computers and technology, keeping himself current with the latest industry trends and innovations to stay competitive and effective.

Giving Back to the Community

Committed to philanthropy, Andrew has been actively volunteering for several charity events and participating in community activities. He has supported the Special Olympics, even participating in events like the Polar Plunge in Bloomington, Illinois. His charitable endeavors include participating in the Race for the Cure for cancer research and volunteering at the Salvation Army's soup kitchen. Furthermore, he has contributed his time to coaching at an elementary basketball camp, helping young players develop their basketball skills.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Andrew's hobbies play a significant role in his life outside of work. He is a passionate collector of sports cards and finds joy in expanding his collection and learning about different players and teams. He is an enthusiastic participant in frisbee golf tournaments and plays church basketball, which allows him to remain active and engage with his community. He also enjoys team trivia competitions, utilizing his broad knowledge base in a fun, social setting. Additionally, hiking with his dog is favored, offering him relaxation and natural enjoyment.

Andrew Eeten's journey from a dedicated student and athlete to a professional in sales and management and his active involvement in community service underscore his commitment to professional excellence and community engagement. He embodies a genuinely balanced and fulfilling life.