Andrew Eeten

Retail work in the cell phone field and eye glass business.

Andrew Eeten is a seasoned professional with a strong background in sales and management, having accumulated over ten years of experience in these fields. His professional journey includes significant stints at well-known companies like T-Mobile and Stanton Optical, where he developed and refined a robust set of skills in customer service and team leadership. He is driven by a deep commitment to personal growth, helping others, and leading a balanced, fulfilling life.

Early Life and Education

Andrew was born in Galesburg, Illinois, on December 20, 1986. Known to friends and family as AJ, he displayed a strong academic aptitude from an early age. His academic excellence was recognized through his induction into the National Honor Society at Eureka Schools, a testament to his scholastic dedication. Beyond the classroom, he was equally passionate about sports, participating in basketball and track, and he played a key role on his school’s 1A state champion track team.

AJ Eeten’s basketball prowess earned him a scholarship to Illinois Central College (ICC), where he continued to excel in his athletic and academic pursuits. After his time at ICC, he transferred to Northern Illinois University to further his education, majoring in Physical Education with a minor in Spanish.

Early Career in Education

Upon completing his education, he chose to embark on a career in public education. He spent several years teaching and coaching, allowing him to positively influence many young lives. While he found this work rewarding, he eventually needed to explore new professional challenges.

Transition to Retail Sales

In March 2017, he took a decisive step in his career by moving into the retail sales sector. He began managing a T-Mobile store in Washington, Illinois. There, he was responsible for the overall management of the store’s operations, from ensuring customer satisfaction with their wireless needs to handling marketing initiatives and store audits.

Career Growth at Stanton Optical

His career trajectory took another upward turn in 2019 when he became a manager at Stanton Optical in Peoria, Illinois. In this role, he broadened his expertise to include eye care products, helping customers select the right glasses and contact lenses and educating them on proper eyewear maintenance. He also managed inventory and processed customer orders, further sharpening his managerial skills.

In December 2023, he transitioned to the role of an optician at the Vision Care Center in Peoria. In this capacity, he continued to help customers with their eyewear needs and took on responsibilities such as measuring visual acuity and ensuring the accuracy of prescription lenses. His focus on customer satisfaction helped many feel confident and cared for in their eyewear choices.

Skills and Expertise

Andrew has cultivated a wide range of valuable skills throughout his diverse career. Notably, he possesses excellent time management and organizational skills, allowing him to handle multiple tasks and resolve issues promptly and efficiently. His keen attention to detail ensures accuracy in all aspects of his work, from customer service to inventory management. He is highly adaptable, quickly adjusting to new roles and responsibilities, and his extensive experience in sales and customer service has equipped him to work effectively in teams and independently. He also keeps abreast of the latest technological trends, ensuring he remains competitive.

Giving Back to the Community

Andrew is deeply committed to giving back to the community. He has been involved in various charitable activities, including supporting the Special Olympics by participating in events like the Polar Plunge. He has also contributed to cancer research fundraising through his involvement in the Race for the Cure and volunteered at the Salvation Army's soup kitchen. His passion for sports continues through his volunteer work at elementary basketball camps, where he helps young athletes develop their skills.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Outside of his professional endeavors, AJ Eeten has a rich personal life filled with diverse hobbies and interests. He is an avid collector of sports cards, enjoying the history and statistics related to each player and team. He actively participates in frisbee golf tournaments and plays basketball within his church league. His love for competition extends to team trivia nights, where he enjoys pitting his wits against others in a friendly and engaging environment. He also treasures the outdoors, often hiking with his dog, where he finds peace and relaxation in nature.

Andrew Eeten's professional path from education to retail sales, robust involvement in community service, and personal hobbies paint the picture of a well-rounded individual dedicated to growth, service, and personal fulfillment.