About Unitec

A Long History of Solving Uniform Challenges
Uniform Store Illustration

We Started in Retail as an Army Navy Surplus Store

Unitec Distribution Systems was originally founded in 1927 as an Army Navy surplus store, Big Boys Army Navy. The men in the service exited the train in downtown Baltimore to purchase their supplies and then returned to the train to continue on their journey.

In the 1980s, we relocated to the suburbs in Carroll County, Maryland and rebranded to Suburban Uniforms. Over the next decade, the business transitioned from a retail store to supporting  uniform needs to the federal government and large corporations.  We moved from a retail location to a 30,000-square-foot warehouse to handle the growth and change in our business model. As we serviced these accounts, we noticed they experienced problematic trends in uniform distribution. Organizations of all sizes were facing similar challenges with managing their uniform programs.

At the forefront of the internet, Unitec developed software to revolutionize how uniforms were ordered, managed, and distributed. Our Proximity System evolved from the early days of phone and faxed orders to today’s all-inclusive mobile-friendly e-commerce solution. We then rebranded to Unitec Distribution Systems to better reflect our technological solutions in the uniform industry.

We continue to innovate and optimize uniform distribution based on the needs of today’s organizations and their employees.

Our Mission

Unitec Distribution Systems helps our clients save time and money by taking them OUT of the uniform business. We distribute quality cost-competitive apparel through the use of world-class web-based technical solutions and intense multi-tiered personal support. We offer a challenging yet rewarding experience for our staff by encouraging independent and creative problem solving in a friendly, supportive environment.

Our Core Values

  • Customer First
  • Get it Done
  • Honesty, Integrity, Respect
  • Attention to Consistency and Detail
  • Team Player
  • Positive Upbeat Attitude

Diversity from the Top Down

Unitec Distribution Systems is a certified women-owned business that employs a diverse multi-national staff. This gives us a unique perspective that enhances our problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork. 

MDOT Minority Business MBE, DBE, SBE Certified Logo
SBA Woman Owned Small Business Logo
Certified WBENC Women's Business Enterprise Logo

We Take You Out of the Uniform Business

Ordering, managing, and distributing uniforms requires careful planning and coordination. Unitec Distribution Systems has mastered the process through our proprietary software and world-class customer focus.

 

It’s time to let the experts take you out of the uniform business and handle the details.

Uniform Distribution Illustration

Meet the Team

The magic of Unitec Distribution Systems is our proprietary uniform management software, The Proximity System™, and our dedicated, customer-focused team. These are the individuals who collaborate, innovate, and evolve to meet and exceed our clients’ expectations everyday.

Executive Leadership

Elise Elfman Headshot
Elise Elfman

President and CEO
410-876-6227, ext. 141
[email protected]

Elise joined Unitec as the Vice President of Sales in early 2000 after a successful career in radio and television sales and sales management. After nine years of developing strong relationships and growing the organization, she took over as President and CEO.

A proud Nittany Lion, Elise attended Penn State University and has won several leadership awards including:

  • The Daily Record Most Admired CEO
  • BBB of Greater Maryland Torch Awards for Ethics
  • Trademark Women of Distinction
  • Smart CEO Brava Award
  • Smart CEO Circle of Excellence
  • American Water Diverse Supplier of the Year
Jeffrey Michelson
Jeffrey Michelson

Senior Vice President
410-876-6227, ext. 101
[email protected]

Jeff was the third generation of his family to lead Unitec Distribution Systems. The business was founded by his grandfather in 1927 and led by his father starting in the 1950s.

After an education in dentistry, then completing an MBA degree, Jeff joined the business in the 1980s and drove the digital transformation that made Unitec what it is today. He continues to oversee our software development with a focus on improving the customer experience and optimizing efficiency.

Key Personnel

Meet some of the exceptional individuals on our team who regularly interact with customers

Sharon Fisher Headshot
Sharon Fisher

Director of Operations
410-876-6227, ext. 151
[email protected]

Sharon joined Unitec in 2019 with a broad range of operations and distributions expertise from a variety of industries. She got her Masters from Penn State World Campus in Organization Development and Change: Operational Excellence. At Unitec, she oversees and optimizes the daily activities across multiple departments for efficiency.
Dorothy Stielper

Business Manager
410-876-6227, ext. 191
[email protected]

As the Business Manager, Dorothy manages accounts payable and receivable, human resources, and a variety of other operational initiatives. Prior to joining Unitec in 2004, Dorothy spent 25 years as the Operations Manager of a local uniform distributor.  This experience coupled with her attention to detail, organization, and deep understanding of our uniform process make her a great team member.
A portrait of Kim Denny Meyer
Kim Denny Meyer

Business Manager
410-876-6227, ext. 161

[email protected]

Kim joined Unitec in July 2025, bringing years of experience in business operations and team leadership. As Business Manager, she supports key internal functions and operational efficiency. Outside of work, Kim loves road-tripping to explore small towns and nature spots. She also enjoys refinishing furniture, drawing with pastels, listening to music, and cooking.
Laura Headshot
Laura Evans

Senior Account Manager
410-876-6227, ext. 145
[email protected]

Laura has been an asset to the Unitec Distribution Systems team since 2005. In addition to serving as the primary contact on select accounts, Laura supports other account managers, business operations, and marketing initiatives. She has a deep knowledge of uniforms and which solutions are the best fit for our customers.
Kim Team Member Headshot
Kim Robinson

Account Manager
410-876-6227, ext. 121
[email protected]

Kim joined Unitec in 2019 after nearly two decades working in various accounting and purchasing positions. Her financial background provides her with a deep understanding of how to source products and manage expenses. She also utilizes her strong communication and organizational skills to give back to the community through volunteering and program management.
A portrait of Michele Bradt
Chris Demyanovich

Account Manager
410-876-6227, ext. 122
[email protected]

Michele joined Unitec in March 2025 with over two decades of experience in management and customer service. At Unitec, she leverages that experience to manage accounts with care and precision. When she’s not working, Michele enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing at the beach, and being around horses.

Work at Unitec Distribution Systems

The Unitec team is a dedicated, tight-knit group of specialists in account management, program management, client services, embroidery, screen printing, tailoring, warehouse logistics and more. We offer a challenging, yet rewarding experience for our staff as one of the leading distributors of uniforms by encouraging independent and creative problem-solving in a friendly and supportive environment.

For employment inquiries, please email Dorothy Stielper:

[email protected]

Uniform Distribution Customer Service