Operating: bringing our technologies to the streets

I arrive at the plant and clock in. The first thing I do is attend the daily morning briefing with my team. This is where we review production goals, safety protocols, and any updates from the previous shift. I make sure I am clear on what needs to be accomplished for the day, from meeting production targets to addressing any issues from the previous shift. If I am working as the Business Team Leader, I will be the one leading this meeting, ensuring my team understands the day’s priorities and addressing any immediate concerns.

After the briefing, I head to my workstation or assigned area. As a Production Operator, I might be responsible for up to five workstations, ensuring that each one is set up properly and running according to the correct work instructions. I continuously monitor the equipment, making sure all parts produced are within the required specifications and quality standards. Any issues with the machines are immediately reported, and I coordinate with maintenance if something needs to be adjusted. 

If I am in the role of a Production Lab Technician, this part of my day is spent testing batches of rubber or raw polymers to ensure they meet the required specifications. Accuracy is critical, so I record all the results and follow standard testing procedures to the letter.

I take a short break to rest, grab a quick coffee, and chat with colleagues. These moments help me recharge before heading back to the production floor.

Back on the floor, I continue to monitor production, but also focused on problem-solving. If I am working as a Sequencing Manager, I coordinate with the production control team to optimize the sequence and minimize changeovers. My role here is to make sure we are hitting production targets while managing machine constraints and addressing any unplanned maintenance. 

As a Business Team Leader, I might be reviewing inefficiencies from the past week and implementing corrective actions to improve output. I ensure that all work instructions, SOPs, and quality control plans are being followed closely. If a problem arises, I apply “3 Why” problem-solving techniques to get to the root cause.

I take my 30-minute lunch break. Whether in the cafeteria or outside, I use this time to unwind and recharge. It is a good mental reset before diving into the second half of my shift.

After lunch, I return to ensure the production process is still running smoothly. As a Production Operator, I focus on maintaining workflow efficiency, making sure that every part is properly labeled, and that all work-in-progress and finished goods are identified accurately.

If I am a Production Lab Technician, I continue testing raw materials and compounds, documenting results, and making sure everything is within spec limits. Quality is my top priority, so I double-check the data entry and ensure all documentation is correct.

If I am in a management role, like a Business Team Leader, I might be reviewing overtime requests to ensure we stay within the budget. I also check the headcount and ensure resources are properly allocated to meet today’s production targets.

As the shift ends, I focus on wrapping up any remaining tasks. I ensure all machines and workstations are properly shut down and cleaned. If I am a Production Lab Technician, I submit all test reports for the day, ensuring that all data is accurate and organized.

If I am in a leadership role, I might chair a quick meeting to review today’s production output and any challenges we faced. I will complete production reports and update the team on any goals we did not meet. I also communicate with the next shift, making sure they are briefed on any unresolved issues.

Before I leave, I do a final walkthrough of my area to ensure everything is for the next shift is in order. I double-check that all safety protocols have been followed and that the workspace is clean and organized. Once everything is set, I clock out, satisfied that we have met the day’s objectives.