Nathan Laird
Bowling Green,Kentucky
Summary
Results-driven Automation and Maintenance Specialist with over 25 years of experience in industrial automation and PLC-controlled systems. Expertise in troubleshooting complex automation systems, executing preventive and corrective maintenance, and enhancing production reliability. Strong foundation in electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical systems, supporting equipment uptime and safety compliance while driving process improvements.
Overview
2
2
years of post-secondary education
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Automation Technician
Carter Lumber
Bowling Green, Kentucky
01.2025 - 01.2026
- Maintain and troubleshoot PLC-controlled automated manufacturing equipment in a door production facility.
- Diagnose electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic issues to reduce downtime and improve production flow.
- Perform preventive maintenance, repairs, and adjustments to support reliable equipment performance.
- Communicate effectively with management and production personnel to maximize productivity and equipment uptime.
- Trained employees on equipment operation and basic troubleshooting to enhance safe work practices and operational efficiency.
- Developed and improved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to standardize maintenance and production processes.
- Coordinated maintenance inventory and production-related spare parts to ensure operational readiness of critical systems.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety standards.
Construction Foreman / Supervisor
SVB Construction
, Kentucky & Tennessee
01.2020 - 01.2024
- Supervised multiple residential construction and renovation projects, ensuring timely completion and quality standards.
- Supervised multiple residential construction and renovation projects simultaneously.
- Coordinated scheduling, subcontractors, materials, and project quality to meet client expectations.
- Built custom homes, pole barns, additions, remodels, and other specialty structures.
- Delivered high-end craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.
- Ensured jobsite safety while delivering projects on schedule and within budget constraints.
Maintenance Technician / Automation Systems Installer
Innovative Manufacturing Services (IMS)
01.2011 - 01.2020
- Installed, wired, repaired, and maintained industrial automation systems across Kentucky and surrounding states to ensure operational efficiency.
- Wired and assembled electrical control panels for diverse manufacturing and automation applications, enhancing system functionality.
- Troubleshot PLC-controlled equipment, electrical controls, mechanical systems, hydraulics, and pneumatics.
- Supported various industrial customers in multiple manufacturing industries by providing tailored automation solutions.
- Provided tailored support to a broad range of industrial clients in multiple manufacturing industries.
- Worked independently and as part of project teams to complete installations safely and efficiently.
Stage Manager
Feld Entertainment - Disney On Ice Productions
01.2004 - 01.2010
- Oversaw logistics and technical operations for approximately 160 touring personnel.
- Oversaw logistics and technical operations for 160 touring personnel, ensuring seamless production execution.
- Managed international touring productions, primarily throughout Asia.
- Coordinated employee travel, housing, and operational logistics, facilitating smooth daily operations.
- Collaborated with venue management and production teams, contributing to successful performance execution.
- Received the Global Achievement Award in recognition of outstanding performance and leadership.
Fire Controlman
United States Navy
01.1999 - 01.2004
- Operated and maintained advanced naval weapons systems, ensuring readiness for deployment.
- Troubleshot and maintained electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and radar systems to uphold operational integrity.
- Conducted preventative maintenance and diagnostics to enhance system reliability and performance.
- Operated effectively under high-pressure conditions to accomplish team objectives.
- Consistently followed strict military safety and operational procedures.
Education
Klein Oak
Spring, TXUnited States Navy Technical Training - Electrical Engineering
Advanced Electronics Technical Core
Chicago, IL 01.1999 - 12.1999
NA - Automotive Mechanics
Laconia Vocational Tech
Laconia, NH 09.1996 - 09.1997
Skills
- PLC installation
- Automation troubleshooting
- Manufacturing Equipment Repair
- Electrical hydraulic systems
- Mechanical diagnostics
- Equipment commissioning
- Controls panels
- Maintenance strategies
- Process improvement
- SOP development
- Inventory & Spare Parts Coordination
- Technical Documentation
- Production support
- Workplace safety
- Precision Engineering
- Process Adaptability
- Team leadership
- Client Engagement
- Client Engagement
Awards
Global Achievement Award Feld Entertainment
Timeline
Automation Technician
Carter Lumber
01.2025 - 01.2026
Construction Foreman / Supervisor
SVB Construction
01.2020 - 01.2024
Maintenance Technician / Automation Systems Installer
Innovative Manufacturing Services (IMS)
01.2011 - 01.2020
Stage Manager
Feld Entertainment - Disney On Ice Productions
01.2004 - 01.2010
United States Navy Technical Training - Electrical Engineering
Advanced Electronics Technical Core
01.1999 - 12.1999
Fire Controlman
United States Navy
01.1999 - 01.2004
NA - Automotive Mechanics
Laconia Vocational Tech
09.1996 - 09.1997
Klein Oak