Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic
Chris Renfro

Chris Renfro

Loves Park,IL

Summary

· I have over 20 years of experience in fabrication, automation machine design, and welding (MIG & TIG). I have designed, sold, and built automation machines including assembly, robotics, automatic part-feeding, conveyors, and so much more. I have plenty of experience with blueprint reading, knowledge of how they are implemented, and trouble shooting. I owned my own successful and growing company that had a tragic fire in October 2024 which put me in this position to be looking for long-term employment. With being a business owner, I handled every last thing from payroll, sales, customer service, machine design, hiring, machine building, job scheduling, due dates, estimating, HR, new clients, and continued relations with current customers.

· With over 20 years of extensive experience in fabrication, automation machine design, and welding (both MIG and TIG), I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to any project. I have successfully designed, sold, and built a wide range of automation machines, including assembly systems, robotics, automatic part-feeding solutions, and conveyors. My skills also encompass proficient blueprint reading and a deep understanding of their practical applications, along with effective troubleshooting capabilities.

· As the former owner of a thriving company, I managed all facets of the business, from payroll and sales to customer service, machine design, hiring, machine fabrication, job scheduling, deadline management, estimating, and human resources. The unfortunate fire that impacted my business in October 2024 has motivated me to find a long-term role where I can leverage my diverse skill set. I am eager to contribute to a dynamic team and build lasting relationships with clients.

Overview

29
29
years of professional experience

Work History

Shop Owner

Essential Automation Works
06.2019 - Current
  • MIG and Tig welding and fabrication 20 years of experience
  • Blueprint reading and quality control
  • Familiar with CAD and Solidworks
  • I handled all of the sales and communication with clients, RFQ's, invoicing, quoting, design, and hands on work in the shop.
  • Promoted business via social media to generate leads and maximize brand identity.
  • Enhanced company reputation by consistently delivering exceptional service quality to customers.
  • Created financial plans and budgets to optimize resources, track expenses, and ensure profitability.
  • Expanded client base through targeted networking initiatives, resulting in increased sales opportunities.
  • Achieved consistent growth with careful planning and execution of business development initiatives.
  • Hired trained, and supervised staff to maintain high levels of productivity and customer satisfaction.
  • Researched trends and current innovations to determine competition and develop competitive pricing points.
  • Fulfilled customer shipping needs by completing all purchase orders and customer invoices.
  • Participated in business events, conferences and trade shows to promote products and network with business owners and prospective clients.
  • Implemented cost-saving measures without compromising on product or service quality.
  • Provided exceptional after-sales support to build strong customer relationships and encourage repeat business.
  • Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.

Sales and Shop Supervisor

AKS Enterprises
01.2009 - 05.2019
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring that all tasks were completed accurately and on time.
  • Developed strong team dynamics, fostering a positive work environment for all staff members.
  • Mentored and trained new employees to ensure consistent service standards across the team.
  • Checked incoming orders and organized new stock.
  • Maintained a clean and organized shop floor, promoting an inviting atmosphere for customers.
  • Streamlined operations through effective employee scheduling and task delegation.
  • Reviewed and studied blueprints to double-check installation and implementation project requirements.

General Manager

JD's Sports Bar and Grill
02.2003 - 03.2008
  • Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
  • Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
  • Implemented operational strategies and effectively built customer and employee loyalty.
  • Addressed customer complaints and feedback with immediate action, turning dissatisfied customers into loyal patrons.
  • Pioneered corporate social responsibility program, building community engagement and enhancing brand reputation.
  • Tracked employee attendance and punctuality, addressing repeat problems quickly to prevent long-term habits.
  • Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.

Feild Emissions Technician

RMC Environmental
08.1995 - 01.2002
  • Preform air testing on smokestacks nationwide on power plants and paper mills.
  • Certified to climb stacks up to 500 feet
  • Anticipated potential problems during testing process, implementing preventive measures that improved overall efficiency.
  • Reduced harmful emissions by conducting thorough inspections and identifying necessary repairs.
  • Provided excellent customer service by explaining testing procedures and answering questions regarding emissions regulations.
  • Provided outstanding customer service.
  • Kept up-to-date on current industry standards and best practices through ongoing professional development opportunities.
  • Maintained equipment integrity by performing routine calibration, cleaning, and maintenance tasks.

Education

No Degree - Mechanical Engineering

Northern Illinois University
DeKalb, IL

Skills

  • MIG and TIG Welding and fabrication
  • Blueprint reading
  • Cad and Solidworks
  • Networking and partnerships
  • Business operations
  • Pricing strategy
  • Customer service background
  • Store maintenance
  • Marketing experience
  • Staff hiring and training

Timeline

Shop Owner

Essential Automation Works
06.2019 - Current

Sales and Shop Supervisor

AKS Enterprises
01.2009 - 05.2019

General Manager

JD's Sports Bar and Grill
02.2003 - 03.2008

Feild Emissions Technician

RMC Environmental
08.1995 - 01.2002

No Degree - Mechanical Engineering

Northern Illinois University
Chris Renfro