John Robbins
Huntsville
Summary
Dedicated distillation professional with a focus on managing entire production processes from grain selection to bottling. Proven ability to oversee quality control and mentor staff, ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Eager to leverage strong organizational skills and attention to detail in a team-oriented environment.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Distiller
Irons Distillery
Huntsville
08.2023 - 03.2026
- Managed entire distillation process from grain selection to product bottling.
- Conducted quality control checks at each production stage to ensure product consistency.
- Trained and mentored staff on distillation techniques and safety protocols.
- Ensured compliance with local and federal regulations in all distilling operations.
- Conducted research on industry trends to innovate new product offerings.
- Maintained inventory of raw materials and managed supply chain logistics effectively.
- Provided technical support to customers regarding product usage or troubleshooting issues.
- Attended trade shows and conferences to network with industry professionals and build brand recognition.
- Evaluated raw materials used in the production process for freshness before use.
- Conducted research into current market trends to inform product development decisions.
- Led daily distillery operations, focusing on hiring, training, and supervising staff to maintain high production standards.
- Utilized laboratory equipment such as hydrometers and refractometers during quality assurance testing.
- Collaborated with sales teams to develop promotional campaigns targeting specific consumer groups.
- Adhered to strict safety protocols when handling hazardous chemicals used in distillation processes.
- Streamlined distilling processes through targeted improvements, enhancing operational efficiency.
- Monitored fermentation tanks throughout the brewing process while adjusting temperature levels accordingly.
- Maintained records of inventory levels, production schedules, and other operational data.
- Ensured compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations related to the manufacturing of distilled beverages.
- Generated detailed documentation regarding each step of the distilling process for reference purposes.
- Collected readings on status, temperature, flow rate and other points for documentation.
- Inspected, troubleshot and calibrated equipment to achieve optimal performance.
- Measured batch pH levels during fermentation.
- Collected, tested, and submitted samples according to quality control standards.
- Monitored material flow and temperature or pressure gauges to verify optimal processing conditions.
- Dumped or poured specified amounts of refined or unrefined materials into equipment or containers for further processing or storage.
- Turned valves and moved controls to admit, drain and separate materials.
CNC Mill Machinist
Hogge Precision Parts
10.2014 - 03.2021
- Programmed computer numerically controlled tools to produce parts accurately, ensuring adherence to specifications and quality standards.
- Identified and replaced broken or worn tools, optimizing tool offsets for improved machining accuracy.
- Prepared and set up machine systems for daily operation and adhered to production goals.
- Started and observed machine operation to detect malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining and adjusted machine controls or control media.
- Loaded component materials into product-specific tools and followed established documentation for manufacturing.
- Completed production and quality logs to document and track activity.
- Studied instructions, labels, blueprint specifications and materials before beginning projects and operating equipment.
- Evaluated production systems and processes, recommended modifications, and assisted in implementation to enhance operational efficiency.
Sous Chef
Bow Thai Cuisine
02.2012 - 10.2014
- Planned and directed high-volume food preparation to ensure timely service in fast-paced environment.
- Trained kitchen staff in various preparation tasks to enhance team readiness under pressure.
- Mentored kitchen staff to equip them for demanding roles and improve overall kitchen performance.
- Acted as head chef to maintain continuity of service and quality.
Line Cook
Applebee's
11.2011 - 10.2014
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods, ensuring high accuracy and enhancing customer satisfaction.
- Prepared and cooked full course meals based on restaurant recipes and specifications.
- Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
- Set up and organized cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing, facilitating efficient workflow.
- Plated and presented all dishes to match established restaurant standards.
- Changed and sanitized cutting boards, benches, and surfaces between tasks to avoid cross-contamination.
- Operated varied kitchen equipment, observing operation guidelines to avoid accidents and prevent malfunctions.
- Instructed new staff on food preparation, storage, kitchen equipment use, and sanitation practices to ensure compliance with health standards.
Nuclear Security Officer
Burns Security
04.2001 - 06.2006
- Performed regular foot patrolling on entire protected area, vital area and gates to monitor nuclear facility security.
- Monitored and checked vehicles, personnel and possessions at entry and exit points.
- Controlled entry processing of individuals into protected and vital areas by verifying identity and authorization to enter.
- Deterred attempts by unauthorized persons seeking to gain entry into protected or vital areas with continuous surveillance and strong access control.
- Supervised and monitored centralized alarm system and warning systems to detect any unlawful presence in high security zone.
- Managed lawful access control functions at Owner Controlled Access (OCA) entry points to prevent unlawful access to area with any weapons.
- Conducted random vehicle searches to prevent import of weapons, contraband and prohibited items.
- Responded quickly to emergency situations to assess and deflect issues.
- Communicated with security team and building supervisors using two-way radios, mobile phones and other technological devices.
- Enforced security policies and removed violators and unauthorized individuals from premises to maintain safe environment.
- Monitored CCTV cameras and alarm systems for security breaches.
- Examined doors, windows and gates to verify security.
Sign Fabricator
Signs Plus Sign Systems
05.1999 - 04.2001
- Designed and built custom signs, ensuring high quality and precise installation for customer satisfaction.
- Applied vinyl to metal, foam board and plastic by hand and with use of laminating table.
- Prepared vinyl for application on substrates or flat socks with associated weeding, trimming and taping.
- Applied vinyl to vehicle doors, windows, and body panels, achieving both partial coverage and complete wraps.
- Welded, skinned with sheet metal, and wired lighted signs to completion.
- Operated hoists, cranes and other heavy machinery to transport materials and parts.
- Performed daily maintenance and inspection of machinery to drive optimal performance.
- Maintained clean, organized shop space to enhance customer appeal and ensure safety.
Printing Pressman
Pro Forms
01.1997 - 02.1999
- Prepared and operated offset printing press for maximum efficiency and production.
- Set up and operated printing press machines.
- Operated press to ensure optimal print quality and productivity while minimizing scrap.
- Adjusted press during production runs to maintain specific registration and color densities.
- Adjusted controls to maintain precise flow of ink and dampening solution to plate cylinder.
- Utilized line gauges to examine printed cards for conformance to specifications.
- Checked job information at each press to verify that correct ink was delivered.
- Mixed paint and color mixtures for use in printing processes.
- Maintained register during make-ready and production processes.
- Reviewed job orders to confirm quantity, stock specifications, colors, and special printing instructions for accuracy.
- Inspected machines and performed repairs.
- Reviewed completed orders for quality and accuracy.
Infantryman 11M
U.S. Army Active Duty
02.1994 - 01.1997
- Contributed as fire team member during situational training exercises and infantry dismounted battle drills to enhance team readiness.
- Acted promptly in emergencies, providing efficient and knowledgeable assistance to ensure safety and operational effectiveness.
- Led fire team during infantry dismounted battle drills and situational training exercises.
- Gained proficiency in use of tear gas, passive ordnance, and explosives to support tactical operations.
- Operated and serviced Bradley M2 Fighting Vehicle during training exercises.
- Served as gunner on Bradley M2 Fighting Vehicle during combat simulations.
Education
High School Diploma -
Harrison High School
Kennesaw, GA06-1993
Skills
- Distillation expertise
- Distillation process
- Whiskey blending
- Yeast fermentation
- Yeast management
- Barrel aging
- Quality control
- Process improvement
- Regulatory compliance
- Inventory management
- Production planning
- Batch management
- Waste reduction
- Sampling
- Equipment inspection
- Equipment sterilization
- Machinery Setup
- Pump operation
- Tool operation
- Preventative maintenance
- Program development
- Basic program development
- Analytical thinking
- Troubleshooting
- Quality analysis
- Log maintenance
- Materials processing
- Supply chain logistics
- Operations oversight
- Health and safety compliance
- Safety compliance
- Vessel washing
- Line washing
- Forklift driving
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
- Decision-making
- Time management
- Multitasking
- Staff training
- Customer relations
- Interpersonal skills
- Verbal communication
- Organizational skills
- Work professionalism
- Problem-solving skills
- Network development
- Precision measurement
- Troubleshooting
- Interpersonal skills
- Operations oversight
- Decision-making
Timeline
Lead Distiller
Irons Distillery
08.2023 - 03.2026
CNC Mill Machinist
Hogge Precision Parts
10.2014 - 03.2021
Sous Chef
Bow Thai Cuisine
02.2012 - 10.2014
Line Cook
Applebee's
11.2011 - 10.2014
Nuclear Security Officer
Burns Security
04.2001 - 06.2006
Sign Fabricator
Signs Plus Sign Systems
05.1999 - 04.2001
Printing Pressman
Pro Forms
01.1997 - 02.1999
Infantryman 11M
U.S. Army Active Duty
02.1994 - 01.1997
High School Diploma -
Harrison High School