Duston Herring
Columbia,MS
Summary
With over 25 years of experience, I excel in industrial and automotive painting. Known for my attention to detail and problem-solving skills, I consistently deliver high-quality finishes. My past work history has given me the chance to grow and learn in other fields and Industries such as operating equipment, learning diesel mechanics, and owning my own business.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Painter, Paint/Sandblast Manager
Quality Welding & Manufacturing
Columbia, MS
04.2025 - Current
- Prepared surfaces by sanding, scraping, and priming to ensure optimal paint adhesion.
- Applied various coatings using spray guns and brushes for uniform finishes on metal components.
- Maintained tools and equipment to ensure operational efficiency and safety standards compliance.
- Collaborated with team members to complete painting projects within established timelines.
- Conducted quality inspections on finished products to ensure adherence to company standards.
- Trained new employees on safety protocols and proper use of painting equipment and materials.
- Prepared surfaces for painting by cleaning, sanding, and repairing defects to ensure smooth results.
- Worked holidays and weekends depending on shifting needs of project.
- Excelled under tight deadlines without sacrificing quality or client satisfaction, ensuring repeat business and positive referrals.
Diesel Mechanic Helper
J-Mechanix
Foxworth, MS
08.2021 - 04.2025
- Assisted mechanics in diagnosing and repairing diesel engines and related systems.
- Conducted routine maintenance checks on heavy machinery to ensure operational efficiency.
- Utilized diagnostic tools to troubleshoot mechanical issues and support repair processes.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of the workshop to enhance workflow efficiency.
- Collaborated with senior mechanics to learn advanced techniques in diesel repair and maintenance.
- Followed safety protocols diligently to promote a safe working environment for all staff.
- Strengthened customer trust by clearly explaining required repairs or maintenance tasks while addressing any concerns or questions related to their vehicle''s condition.
- Minimized downtime for fleet vehicles by providing prompt assessment and repair of diesel engines as needed.
- Supported fellow mechanics in resolving complex diesel engine problems through collaborative troubleshooting efforts.
- Demonstrated versatility in servicing multiple types of diesel engines, including both light and heavy-duty applications across various manufacturers.
- Cleaned shop, stored new supplies and put away tools to maintain organized work area.
- Completed minor repairs and basic upkeep work with minimal supervision.
- Repaired lighting, brake and hydraulic systems adjacent to diesel engines.
- Operated variety of power tools and hand tools.
- Maintained tools and equipment in good working condition.
- Examined engines, transmissions and vehicle systems to diagnose issues.
- Diagnosed and repaired diesel engines to restore functionality in heavy-duty vehicles.
Owner/Operator
Huston Watts Body Shop LLC.
Columbia, MS
01.2015 - 01.2021
- Managed daily operations, ensuring efficient workflow and timely project completion.
- Oversaw customer service initiatives, enhancing client satisfaction and loyalty.
- Directed team training programs, fostering skill development and operational excellence.
- Implemented quality control measures, improving service standards and reducing errors.
- Coordinated auto repair processes, ensuring adherence to safety regulations and industry standards.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing issues promptly to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing high-quality services and timely communication.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors to secure favorable terms for the business.
- Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
- Oversaw the hiring process, selecting highly skilled candidates who contributed significantly to company success.
- Facilitated open communication channels among staff members, promoting teamwork for enhanced performance.
Automotive Painter
Huston Watts Body Shop
Columbia, MS
01.1996 - 01.2015
- Applied high-quality finishes to automotive surfaces using advanced spray painting techniques.
- Prepared vehicles for painting by sanding, masking, and cleaning surfaces to ensure optimal adhesion.
- Diagnosed paint defects and implemented corrective actions to enhance overall finish quality.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline workflows and improve efficiency in paint application processes.
- Conducted thorough inspections of finished work to guarantee adherence to industry standards and customer expectations.
- Maintained inventory of paint supplies and equipment, ensuring availability for ongoing projects without delays.
- Achieved consistent color matching by utilizing digital paint mixing systems, resulting in uniform finishes on all vehicles.
- Enhanced vehicle appearance by applying high-quality paint jobs, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Mixed and thinned paints and other coatings to specified colors and consistency using viscometers and mixing equipment.
- Completed complex paint jobs within tight deadlines, demonstrating exceptional time management skills and attention to detail.
- Streamlined painting processes by implementing efficient spray techniques, reducing waste and increasing productivity.
- Maintained strong relationships with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials needed for ongoing projects, avoiding potential delays or setbacks.
- Used surface preparation and painting techniques to paint surfaces of cars, trucks and fleet vans.
- Assisted with damage assessment and repair estimates for insurance purposes, ensuring accurate quotes for customers in need of automotive painting services.
- Adapted quickly to new projects or changing client requests, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to excellent customer service.
Education
High School Diploma -
West Marion High School
Foxworth, MSSkills
- Strong work ethic
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Team player
25 years Industrial and Automotive Painter experience
- Paint sprayer operation
- Paint mixing
- Punctual and dependable
- 7 years experience with operating heavy equipment such as excavator, bulldozers, crains, lifts/loaders
Timeline
Painter, Paint/Sandblast Manager
Quality Welding & Manufacturing
04.2025 - Current
Diesel Mechanic Helper
J-Mechanix
08.2021 - 04.2025
Owner/Operator
Huston Watts Body Shop LLC.
01.2015 - 01.2021
Automotive Painter
Huston Watts Body Shop
01.1996 - 01.2015
High School Diploma -
West Marion High School