David Berrelez

I have had the privilege of leading a technology group responsible for IT/OT operations, overseeing various areas, including instrumentation, electrical, ICS programming, and IT systems. During my tenure, I focused on the following:

• Maintenance Excellence: I managed plant and mine maintenance activities, aiming for optimal uptime and efficiency while keeping a close eye on budget constraints.
• Capital Project Management: I was involved in the planning and execution of capital projects ranging from $250K to $6MM, from concept to completion.
• WattSmart Project Collaboration: I worked on WattSmart incentivized projects in partnership with Rocky Mountain Power, successfully completing over 14 projects that collectively yielded incentives and kWh savings totaling approximately $5.9MM.
• Project Lifecycle Management: I oversaw all aspects of projects, including budgeting, procurement, process design, control system development, and network design.

Technical Expertise and Troubleshooting

In terms of technical skills, I am proficient in PLC/PAC, HMI, historian, and network design, programming, and troubleshooting. I also possess capabilities in network optimization, I/O configuration, and instrumentation selection and troubleshooting, enabling me to address technical issues promptly and maintain system reliability.

Collaboration and Strategic Alignment

I believe in the power of collaboration and have worked closely with cross-functional teams to align technology initiatives with organizational objectives, with a focus on fostering innovation and efficiency.

Risk Management and Cybersecurity

My approach emphasizes risk management, compliance, and cybersecurity, with a commitment to safeguarding critical assets and data integrity, ensuring the security of our systems.

Network Switch Management: Successfully managed a comprehensive inventory of over 100 network switches, encompassing both Layer 2 and Layer 3 technologies.
Utilized a range of equipment, including Cisco Catalyst Meraki, AB Stratix, and Moxa switches, strategically placed in both IT and mission-critical OT locations.
Point-to-Point Wireless Networks: Effectively supervised and maintained more than 150 Ubiquiti wireless network bridges, serving as a pivotal communication backbone across two mine locations.

VMware Environment Management: Spearheaded the management of two intricate VMware environments, featuring 8 VXRail nodes and VSAN, hosting over 80 virtual servers critical to seamless plant operations.

System Integration and Programming: Demonstrated proficiency in configuring, managing, and programming various systems and interface software, including AVEVA PI DA, ICU connectors, Manual logger, PI vision, PI integrator for BA, and Kepware OPC drivers.

Network Expansion and Redundancy Design: Spearheaded network expansion initiatives to remote locations, employing cutting-edge technologies such as Ubiquiti PTP and PTmP 5GHz radios, single-mode (SM) and multi-mode (MM) fiber optics, and CAT 6 cabling.
Designed and implemented redundancy loops for critical ICS devices utilizing advanced protocols like EtherChannel, REP, and DLR, ensuring high availability and fault tolerance.

VLAN Management and Network Segmentation: Proficiently managed VLAN configurations at two plant locations, optimizing network performance and security.
Conducted thorough network audits using various network tools to identify and rectify potential issues, and meticulously adhered to the Purdue model for robust IT and OT network segmentation.

• Instrumentation: Proficiently designed, commissioned, and maintained various critical instruments like proximity probes, flow meters, level meters, and pressure transmitters.
• Documentation: Maintained precise Management of Change (MOC) and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) documentation, aligning them with control systems and process control. Updated schematics and automation functional documentation to improve efficiency.
• Motor Sizing and Installation: Expertly sized and installed A/C motors, starters, and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), facilitating plant expansion and scalability.
• VFD Integration: Skillfully integrated VFDs into control systems using diverse communication protocols. Adapted to various VFD manufacturers.
• PLC Programming: Utilized Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) for turnkey solutions in remote pumping, conveyor systems, and brine transfer. Proficient with Rockwell ControlLogix, Compactlogix, and Micro 850 PLCs, using programming environments like Studio 5000, Connected Components Workbench (CCW), and Telepace Studio.
• Compliance: Ensured compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and adhered to ISA standards for safety and best practices.

Professionally contributed to the successful commissioning of new construction and infrastructure overhaul projects across dynamic sectors, including the oilfield, wind energy, powerplant, and mining industries. Key responsibilities encompassed:

ICS Programming: Proficiently undertook the programming of Industrial Control Systems (ICS), ensuring seamless integration and functionality within the project scope.

Instrumentation Expertise: Demonstrated expertise in instrumentation, encompassing precise calibration, meticulous troubleshooting, and rigorous acceptance testing to guarantee the reliability and accuracy of critical systems.

Electrical Installations: Expertly performed electrical installations, encompassing wiring, cabling, and electrical component assembly, adhering to industry standards and safety protocols.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Demonstrated proficiency in diagnosing and resolving electrical issues, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance of industrial equipment and systems.

Safety Compliance: Maintained a strong commitment to safety, consistently adhering to all relevant safety guidelines and protocols, thereby fostering a secure work environment for all personnel.

Blueprint Interpretation: Proficiently interpreted electrical blueprints and schematics, facilitating the accurate implementation of electrical systems and modifications.

Equipment Testing: Conducted comprehensive testing and inspections of electrical equipment, validating functionality and compliance with quality standards.

Collaborative Teamwork: Collaborated effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and maintenance personnel, to support seamless project execution and facility maintenance.

I began as an Electrical Apprentice, committed to mastering electrical systems. After completing my apprenticeship and obtaining necessary certifications, I became an Electrical Foreman. In this leadership role, I managed projects, mentored team members, and prioritized safety, quality, and timelines.