Celebrating 75 Years of J.M. Rodgers: Employee Spotlight on Sue Gertsmann
Meet Sue Gertsmann, who has been part of J.M. Rodgers for nearly 36 years. As JMR celebrates its 75th anniversary, Sue reflects on the company’s evolution, the people who shaped her career, and what has kept her at JMR for more than three decades.
75 Years of Excellence: Employee Spotlight – Sue Gertsmann
As J.M. Rodgers Co. celebrates 75 years of service, innovation, and expertise, we’re taking time to recognize the people who have helped shape our story. Few team members embody that legacy quite like Sue Gertsmann, who has been part of the JMR family for nearly 36 years.
Sue joined J.M. Rodgers after applying for a data entry position, but over the decades, her role has evolved into something much larger. Today, she plays a critical role in the duty drawback process, submitting claims to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and troubleshooting complex issues that arise along the way.
Reflecting on her early days at JMR, Sue remembers a very different workplace.
“When I started at JMR, almost everything was manual. Reports had to be printed out and mailed directly to Customs. Now, everything is electronic.”
Having witnessed decades of industry transformation, Sue has experienced firsthand how technology has changed the way drawback claims are managed. Yet despite all the changes, one thing has remained constant: her passion for the work.
“Before I came to J.M. Rodgers, I never heard the words duty drawback,” Sue recalls. “The work is so interesting. It’s amazing how it’s changed over the years. I find myself stopping and saying, ‘Wow, I remember when we did it this way.’”
Duty drawback is a highly specialized field, and Sue credits much of her success to the hands-on learning opportunities and the knowledgeable colleagues who helped guide her throughout her career.
When asked about memorable experiences, Sue points not to a single moment, but to the people who have influenced her journey. She fondly remembers the guidance of Alan Rodgers and Bill Kogan, as well as the expertise and support of colleagues such as Linda Janace, David Verkaik, Mary Anne Brooks, and Jessica Alvarez.
“The people with such knowledge about duty drawback are incredible,” Sue says. “Many of them have helped me when I’ve had a question or needed to bounce an idea off someone.”
That collaborative spirit is one of the reasons Sue has remained with JMR for more than three decades.
“My co-workers and how everyone is willing to pitch in and help with anything,” she says. (Though she jokingly adds, “No dress code. LOL.”)
For Sue, what truly sets J.M. Rodgers apart is the depth of knowledge within the organization.
“The people who work here and their knowledge of duty drawback—from the Customs regulations to data requirements to everything.”
As JMR marks its 75th anniversary, Sue reflects on what it means to have been part of the company’s history for nearly half of its existence.
“That I had a little part in their success and longevity. I can’t believe I’ve been a part of it for over 35 years. I started working here when the company was run by three brothers—Brian, Alan, and Roy Rodgers. Maybe I’ll still be here when the great-grandchildren take over.”
Her dedication, expertise, and sense of humor have made Sue an invaluable part of the J.M. Rodgers story. As we celebrate 75 years, we’re grateful for team members like Sue whose commitment and knowledge continue to strengthen our company and serve our clients every day.
Thank you, Sue, for nearly 36 years of dedication to J.M. Rodgers Co. and for helping shape the legacy we’re celebrating today.