At Talos Engineered Products, the manufacturing maintenance team plays a crucial role in ensuring the seamless operation of our production processes. To provide insight into this dynamic career path, we sat down with Facilities Maintenance Manager, David Nichols, to discuss his role, experiences and the opportunities available at Talos. Here are the questions we asked him:

Can you tell us about your background and how you started your career in manufacturing maintenance?                        I started my career at Talos Engineered Products as a Production Supervisor over the welding department. After 2 years, I was asked if I had any interest in moving into the Maintenance Supervisor role – I was excited and eager for a new challenge.

What attracted you to join Talos Engineered Products? How long have you been here?

I have been with Talos Engineered Products for over 3 years now. I was impressed with what the company manufactured, and especially, the culture and people. This was also a good fit for me being that I would be closer to home.

What does a typical day look like for a maintenance technician at Talos?

Our Maintenance Technicians start their day with a start-up meeting, going over any special projects or pressing word orders. We also discuss any issues that they may have. Then, they all check our FMX calendar to see all PM’s and work orders due for the day and make a round throughout the shop floor at shift start, making sure everything is up and running. Since we are also the support staff, our technicians also help with production when and if we are not busy.

What skills and qualifications are essential for a career in manufacturing maintenance?

Manufacturing Maintenance requires a well-rounded skill set as each day brings new challenges. Skills from electrical, PLC, hydraulics, pneumatic to general maintenance are essential. In our industry, a welding background is also helpful, along with being able to read control wiring in case of equipment troubleshooting.

How does Talos support the professional development of its maintenance staff?

Talos Engineered Products offers a tuition reimbursement if a maintenance technician would like to go back-to-school for other certifications, along with training courses and opportunities that benefit our team.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you overcome them?

The biggest challenge so far was Talos moving our assembly center from our Lewisburg, Tennessee facility to our LaVergne, Tennessee facility. My team was the key to the move’s success.

My next biggest challenge is trying to figure out how to cool our manufacturing facility in Lewisburg, helping our employees, production and overall equipment. I am looking forward to this challenge and finding the most cost-efficient way to help Talos.

Can you share a memorable project or accomplishment you have been a part of at Talos?

A couple to be honest: The first project that came to mind was moving our shop floor around to make room for our new Cidan Folder. The second was moving our Talos Assembly Center (TAC) to our LaVergne facility.

How does the maintenance team contribute to the overall success of Talos Engineered Products?

Our maintenance team is the backbone of Talos Engineered Products. Without them, the equipment does not run; without the equipment, Talos does not have anything for others to do.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in manufacturing maintenance?

Maintenance is a great field to be involved in; however, career paths for this field can look different for everyone. There are learning curves and will always be things that you do not know; however, don’t get discouraged and learn from your mistakes – always have an open mind to learn something new.