Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Colton Wrenn

Sr. Automation Systems Technician
Decatur,AL

Summary

As a Senior Automation Systems Technician at GE Appliances, I was responsible for supporting and enhancing automated manufacturing processes by maintaining high-performance PLC-controlled systems and ensuring equipment reliability. I partnered with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to troubleshoot complex automation and controls issues, identify root causes, and implement sustainable solutions that improved uptime and production efficiency. My role included optimizing control systems, supporting equipment commissioning and process improvements, evaluating system performance, and contributing to automation projects that increased productivity and reduced operational costs. I also mentored technicians by providing technical support, troubleshooting guidance, and training on automation systems, safety procedures, and best practices. By combining hands-on technical expertise with a continuous improvement mindset, I helped strengthen manufacturing operations, support production objectives, and maintain compliance with company, customer, and OSHA safety requirements.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Sr. Automation Systems Technician

GE Appliances, A Haier Company
Decatur, AL
07.2025 - Current

Managed, maintained, and optimized PLC-based automation systems to improve equipment reliability, performance, and production efficiency.

Served as the primary technical resource for automation equipment, troubleshooting complex controls issues, conducting root cause analysis, and implementing corrective actions to minimize downtime.

Collaborated with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to develop automation solutions, support new equipment integration, and drive continuous process improvements.

Streamlined automated workflows and optimized control logic, reducing manual intervention, increasing system efficiency, and lowering operational costs.

Tested, commissioned, and validated automation equipment to ensure reliable operation and compliance with engineering and safety standards.
Provided technical leadership and training to junior technicians on troubleshooting techniques, equipment operation, and safety best practices.

Supported engineering projects by defining automation requirements, meeting project deadlines, and delivering technical support throughout the equipment lifecycle.

Maintained compliance with OSHA, company, and customer safety standards while promoting safe work practices across manufacturing operations.

Process Control Technician

GE Appliances, A Haier Company
Decatur, AL
12.2022 - Current
  • Collaborated with engineering teams to design, install, and commission new control systems for optimal performance.
  • Enhanced process efficiency by monitoring and analyzing control systems data.
  • Improved safety standards by diligently maintaining and troubleshooting control systems.
  • Conducted routine preventative maintenance on instrumentation performance, recommending upgrades or replacements when necessary for continued operational excellence.
  • Achieved consistent production quality through meticulous calibration of instruments and equipment.
  • Mentored junior technicians in best practices for maintaining efficient operations while preserving a safe working environment at all times.
  • Minimized disruptions in production schedules by swiftly responding to emergency situations related to process control systems malfunctions or failures.
  • Reduced downtime by conducting timely maintenance on process control equipment.
  • Boosted operational reliability by updating outdated control system technologies and hardware.
  • Administered processes, resolved issues and recommended improvements for all structure methods.
  • Performed electrical and mechanical troubleshooting on equipment.
  • Complied with safety rules and standards to maximize efficiencies while reducing accidents.
  • Performed maintenance on machinery and escalated major malfunctions to supervisor for immediate assistance.
  • Performed preventive maintenance on equipment during scheduled downtime.
  • Used information in technical diagrams, schematics, and manuals to understand operations and make successful repairs.
  • Conferred with automation techs and maintenance to investigate and solve failure issues.
  • Used LOTO procedures properly to safely change failing presses, cylinders, proximity switches, cables, and broken parts

Production Operator

GE Appliances, A Haier Company
Decatur, AL
06.2017 - 12.2022
  • Used equipment properly to avoid workplace hazards or injuries.
  • Supported workplace safety through strict adherence to safety protocols
  • Inspected final products for defects and flaws using proper QA procedures.
  • Followed detailed instructions to operate tools with accuracy and produce quality products.
  • Complied with company and OSHA safety rules and regulations.
  • Maintained organized work area by cleaning and removing hazards.

Diesel Mechanic Assistant

Hometown Diesel
Moulton, AL
10.2021 - 07.2022
  • Cleaned shop, stored new supplies and put away tools to maintain organized work area.
  • Helped mechanics complete repairs by organizing supplies, maintaining tools and passing needed items.
  • Shadowed senior mechanics to develop advanced repair skills.
  • Enhanced shop efficiency by maintaining a clean, organized workspace and assisting with tool inventory management.
  • Completed minor repairs and basic upkeep work with minimal supervision.
  • Repaired and installed wiring for running lights and switches
  • Supported team productivity by consistently providing assistance with heavy lifting and maneuvering of large parts during repair processes.
  • Operated variety of power tools and hand tools.
  • Set up ladders and other access equipment.

Education

AAS Advanced Manufacturing - Robotics

Calhoun Community College
Tanner, AL
01.2025 - 12.2025

AAS Advanced Manufacturing - Electrical Maintenance

Calhoun Community College
Tanner, AL
06.2023 - 07.2025

Short-Term Certificate - Cybersecurity Focused in IT

Calhoun Community College
Tanner, AL
05.2023

Skills

  • PLC Programming & Controls Troubleshooting
  • Industrial Automation & Process Control
  • Equipment Reliability & Downtime Reduction
  • Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Actions
  • Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing
  • Equipment Commissioning & System Integration
  • HMI/SCADA Systems
  • Industrial Networking (Profinet, Profibus, Ethernet/IP)
  • Preventive & Predictive Maintenance
  • Cross-Functional Leadership
  • Technical Training & Mentorship
  • Manufacturing Process Optimization
  • OSHA & Manufacturing Safety Compliance
  • Project Coordination & Engineering Support

Timeline

Sr. Automation Systems Technician

GE Appliances, A Haier Company
07.2025 - Current

AAS Advanced Manufacturing - Robotics

Calhoun Community College
01.2025 - 12.2025

AAS Advanced Manufacturing - Electrical Maintenance

Calhoun Community College
06.2023 - 07.2025

Process Control Technician

GE Appliances, A Haier Company
12.2022 - Current

Diesel Mechanic Assistant

Hometown Diesel
10.2021 - 07.2022

Production Operator

GE Appliances, A Haier Company
06.2017 - 12.2022

Short-Term Certificate - Cybersecurity Focused in IT

Calhoun Community College
Colton WrennSr. Automation Systems Technician