Forklift Operator Safety Manager
Resume:
Karl Shimshak
OFFERING AN OPPORTUNITY to one fortunate company for the acquisition of an
experienced worker who began in manufacturing and automated machine operation/ maintenance, eventually leading to a 15 year campaign in mid-management as a production foreman.
La Crosse, WI 54601
adu4i7@r.postjobfree.com
Over the course of a sustained, successful, manufacturing career, I have acquired extensive knowledge and practical experience in the operation of manual and automated equipment and their associated operating systems.
In particular, multi-head automated saws used to cut lumber to exacting standards that are made into building components for the construction industry. My overall knowledge was acquired through hard work and a strong desire to further myself personally. This eventually led to a 15-year campaign into mid-management as a production foreman. As well as training, coaching, and direct supervision of departmental personnel, it was necessary to troubleshoot, diagnose, and maintain all cutting machinery. At times this would require outsourcing to mechanical and electrical contractors. It was immediately apparent that this created an opportunity to learn and to use their knowledge for the benefit of myself and the company. My questions were many, my curiosities piqued. I worked closely with the electricians and repairmen, helping out where I could, developing relationships, and asking many questions. It took some time, but eventually the need to outsource became less and less frequent, as I was able to conduct repairs myself which I was unable to do in the past. One occasion when I needed to outsource an electrical problem remains particularly memorable to this day. Upon entering the shop, laden with tools, the electrician stated vociferously,
"Well, it must be serious if THAT guy can't figure it out!" Lol, that really happened.
I carried the same approach to another aspect of the foreman position, interacting with upper management. There were frequent meetings attended by the president of the company, foremen, and the team of managers consisting of a HR/Safety Manager, Yard/Delivery Manager, Sales Manager, and Production Manager. I considered these meetings as an opportunity for a complimentary education that needed to be taken advantage of. Particularly in the case of the president, who had no formal education, grew up on a farm in Iowa, and worked his way up from humble beginnings to the leader of a multi-million dollar company. Lots of respect to that man. In conjunction with the aforementioned duties of being a foreman, I was also charged with keeping a running inventory of raw materials. This entailed detailed reports to the purchasing agent of all current and future materials allocation and usage, as well as heading up a full count of all raw materials for the end of the fiscal year.
I was responsible for coordinating saw production over all shifts (3), consisting of crews totaling 25 - 30 people. Total production at the time was approximately 2 to 2.5 million feet per month, in terms of board footage.
I was employed by this company for 30+ years, albeit during three different periods. Through practical experiences, what I refer to as the "School of Life," I became a reliable, resourceful contributor to both the company and the crews that were built through knowledge, teamwork, and cooperation. We had been introduced to adversity at times, but we were also familiar with joyous pride. In conclusion, I came to this company as a young man and the experience has led me to where I am now, a little longer in the tooth, somewhat battle scarred, but thankful for what the company gave me, and proud of what I could give to the company.
My hope is that the next 10-15 years of my working life is as equally rewarding. Thank you for your consideration.
Authorized to work in the US for any employer
Work Experience
Saw Operator
Truss Specialists, Inc. - La Crescent, MN
November 2014 to July 2022
Operation of automated saw equipment to produce components for assembly. High level of precision and ability to read and understand detailed design information and using that information to check product for accuracy. Maintain production levels. (rate)
Troubleshoot and maintain equipment, particularly preventive maintenance. Maintain a clean environment, free from hazards, debris, etc. Education
Completed 11 years of school then, out of necessity, became a student in the School of Life. Fairly general in subject matter, yielding a general aptitude across several categories.
Winona Senior High School - Winona, MN
September 1981 to June 1984
Skills
• Manufacturing
• Mechanical Knowledge
• Assembly
• Warehouse Experience
• Micrometer
• Materials Handling
• Quality Control
• Maintenance
• Lawn Care
• Packaging
• Blueprint Reading
• Shipping & Receiving
• Forklift
• Pallet Jack
• Quality Inspection
• Computer Operation
• Order Picking
• Mowing
• Calipers
• Facilities Maintenance
• Electrical Experience
Certifications and Licenses
Certified Forklift Operator
June 2020
Certificate of Professional Development
March 2003 to Present
Western Wisconsin Technical Institute [23 March 2003] Modern Supervision Techniques
Focus:
Interpersonal Communication Skills.
Dealing With Emotional Behavior and Conflict.
Coaching for Optimal Performance.
Problem Solving.
On the Job Training and Working as Teams.
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