A lifetime in logistics: James Peet’s 46-year career in healthcare supply chain - now working alongside his daughter

James Peet’s decades-long career in the healthcare supply chain world has come full circle with his daughter now following in his footsteps.

James reflects on his 46-year career, starting in 1979 at Dartmouth General Hospital as a supply floor technician, later transitioning to the print shop and then into shipping and receiving. After retiring in 2014, he returned as a casual worker in the Trider Distribution Centre. 

"I just wasn't ready for 100% retirement," he says.

The warehouse, located in Burnside, supplies medical supplies to hospitals in Nova Scotia’s Central Zone - and occasionally across the province.

In his casual role he works about 14 hours a week as a stores clerk A, referring to himself as a ‘picker.’

When orders are received from hospitals, James goes through the 55-thousand-square-foot warehouse and collects the items, ensuring accuracy and fulfillment of orders. Which is no small feat. 

“We send three tractor trailer loads to Halifax daily,” James says. This is in addition to the other hospitals in Dartmouth, Lower Sackville, Middle Musquodoboit and Musquodoboit Harbour.

With more than 2,800 items in stock. Orders can include a variety of items hospitals use—from personal protective equipment like hand sanitizer and masks to supplies like IV solutions, bandages, gowns and sutures. 

“We house any supplies a hospital would need, with the exception of medication and equipment,” James explains.

However, the highlight of his day is working with his daughter, Robin Peet.

Robin began her career at Nova Scotia Health as a COVID-19 screener in 2020 and transitioned to the Dorey Distribution Centre, alongside her father in March 2021. 

When the Trider Distribution Centre opened in June 2023, both James and Robin moved there. 

She is now a senior stores clerk. Focusing on inventory control, her role includes monitoring inventory, doing daily cycle counts and resolving issues with orders.

“At the distribution centre we move anywhere from 8,000 to 10,000 lines of items per week,” she says. “I like analyzing and figuring out where items best fit for picking purposes." 

While her role isn’t on the front lines, Robin points out the smooth operation of the supply chain is vital to the success of patient care.

"I like knowing that my role impacts the well-being of patients, ensuring hospitals have the essential supplies they need to provide the care every patient deserves."

Robin also enjoys the fact she can work alongside her dad. The two can often be found taking their lunch or breaks together.

Photo of Robin Peet with her father James Peet.