Name: Andrew Schmidt
Location: US based – South Carolina
Role: US Director and Partner
I joined EquipMySchool in 2012, opening the US branch in Charleston, South Carolina. I trot the globe checking in on our clients, facilitate all their needs and oversee US branch operations.
An Eagle Scout with a Russian History and Business Management degree, Andrew joined the team in 2012, opening the US branch of EquipMySchool. A unique sales force unto himself, Andrew trots the globe checking in on clients and also oversees US branch operations.
In off duty hours, when not preparing gourmet dinners for friends, Andrew enjoys practicing kajukenbo, a mixed martial art, and riding his motorcycles. He and his wife live in Charleston, South Carolina.
As a purchasing agent for over 260 International American and British curriculum schools worldwide, EquipMySchool works directly with our large network of partner suppliers to source and consolidate everything for your academic year. Everything from your playground equipment and gym flooring to your Halloween decorations, and of course every book, chair, laptop, table and paintbrush… basically, if you were to turn one of our schools upside down and shake it out, everything that tumbles out is something we have supplied. We ensure all materials are in perfect condition and carefully consolidate them for international shipping, packaging them out by classroom, so that the unloading of your goods is as fluid as possible. We handle all freight and customs processes and ensure the timely arrival of your goods. One shipment, one invoice; on time, every time!
Quick, easy, convenient: we consolidate while you educate!
If the customs processes are notoriously difficult in your country, our years of experience with Customs will ensure your materials are delivered safely and on time, every time.
We love a challenge, and have satisfied clients in countries with some of the most challenging customs processes, including Eritrea, the DRC, Angola, Nigeria, Uganda, Egypt, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Morocco, Zambia, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Niger, Burkina Faso, Tunisia and Liberia.
EquipMySchool’s dedication to boutique service at scale will exceed your expectations. Every item on your list is triple checked for quality control before leaving its originating country, mindfully consolidated to withstand rough transport while conserving costly space, and speed through all freight and customs processes by our team. We also source all the items on our clients lists rather than just settling for what’s easily available. Best of all, we operate within the margins provided by our volume purchasing power, so you receive curriculum materials at the pricing you would in your home country.
On our way from the AISA conference to the ISK school tour, our visit was pretty much cut short before it began. Our driver (ferrying a busload of leaders and associates) evaluated floodwater rushing across a city block… and gunned forward. As the dark water rose up the steps of our bus, we stalled out in the middle of the rising current. Trash began to whirl outside the bus windows and local residents appeared from surrounding apartment complexes to check out the bus full of trapped mzungu. Negotiations for our extrication began… as well as theories as to what might happen if we remained stuck in the rising water. After some rile and a discounted price, pants were rolled up and our bus was pushed free.
When we arrived at school, they’d even saved us some wine.
My international motorcycle license, a fistful of battery packs and boundless optimism. Always eat the local yogurt first upon arriving. Don’t pass up a street vendor with a long line. Always try to find out where the locals go for fun. Our world is a spectacular place, full of endless possibilities!
EquipMySchool.com now additionally serves as an international marketplace, connecting all your favourite brands to over 260 International American and British curriculum schools worldwide. Register with us online and start building your order today!
The Association of International Schools in Africa is dedicated to serving its members throughout Africa during this challenging time. Please let us know if you require additional or specific information, resources and or support, and we will endeavour to assist you as soon as possible.