Ralph Kays III
Owensboro,KY
Summary
Engaging leader prepared for a supervisory role with over 14 years experience in Southwire operations. Proven ability to guide teams towards achieving objectives and enhancing productivity. Demonstrated knowledge in mill start up and adaptable in executing in all areas of the plant. Trusted and reliable advisor to operators needing assistance around the clock with a commitment to excellence.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Team Leader
Southwire Company
01.2024 - Current
- Set performance expectations for the team, monitor progress towards goals and provide constructive feedback as needed.
- Empower team members by delegating responsibilities according to individual strengths and areas of expertise.
- Manage conflict resolution among team members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Maintain an inclusive and diverse team culture, promoting respect and understanding among all members.
- Work to ensure the team's actions align with the company's overall objectives, including "Building Organizational Capability," "Driving Operational Excellence," and "Accelerating Growth."
- Collaborate with the Process Engineer, Value Steam Manager and supervisors across the organization to develop and revise standard operational and working practices.
- Contribute to a safer work environment, leading safety meetings and advocating for continuous improvement measures.
Strip Mill Operator
Southwire Company
09.2017 - 01.2024
- Played a critical role in the start up of the Fuhr Strip Mills, assisting with programming, setups of various sized stripping pads and continue to make progress on the machine on day shift
- Rewound material to specified lengths and performing spark tests.
- Made quality patches on defective material and performing quality checks as outlined in the process procedures.
- Handled and moved materials involving palletizing and stretch wrapping.
- Served as a reliable resource for management, providing accurate information on production metrics when requested for reporting purposes.
- Actively contributed to the ongoing refinement of standard operating procedures by suggesting process improvements based on hands-on experience and observations.
- Demonstrated versatility by operating various types of machines as required based on production needs.
- Gained expertise in multiple areas of operations, allowing for seamless transitions between roles when needed due to absences or personnel changes.
- Improved production efficiency by optimizing mill settings and implementing preventative maintenance procedures.
Cable Mill Assistant
Southwire Company
08.2013 - 09.2017
- Assisted with the operation of machinery and equipment used in the cable production process, including operating palletizers, stretch wrappers, and other equipment.
- Inspected and tested materials to ensure quality and compliance with specifications.
- Performed repairs and maintenance on equipment, troubleshooting minor issues and making necessary adjustments.
- Rewound material, stripped insulation, conducted spark testing, patched defective materials, and completed other tasks related to cable production.
- Followed all company safety rules and procedures, and handled materials in a manner that minimized environmental impact.
- Received training on different equipment and tasks in the mill and filled in for other positions when needed.
Cable Mill Rewinder
Southwire Company
08.2011 - 08.2013
- Rewound material into specified package lengths.
- Maintained proper spark-tester settings and performed tests.
- Ensured product quality according to specifications and visual checks.
- Responsible for making quality patches on defective material when needed.
- Stripped PVC and Nylon insulation off copper and aluminum wire.
- Properly tagged and packaged the product according to specifications.
General Helper
Southwire Company
04.2011 - 08.2011
- Assisted operator and supervisor to keep the machines running efficiently.
- Chopped scrap off bobbins and loaded onto machines.
- Cleaned and maintained the work area, returned tools and materials to storage, and assisted with repairs.
- Ensured quality control by performing quality checks and reporting issues to the supervisor.
- Completed cross-training on other equipment as needed.
Plant Operator
Owensboro Grain Company
02.2001 - 04.2011
- Operated machinery including elevators, conveyors, and dryers, as well as performed routine maintenance tasks to keep equipment running smoothly.
- Ensured the quality of grain by monitoring parameters, taking samples, and collaborated with quality control personnel.
- Followed all safety protocols, ensured proper handling of materials, and adhered to relevant regulations.
- Monitored grain inventory, ensured adequate supplies for production, and managed inventory in the plant.
- Collaborated with other team members, communicated with management, and coordinated with external vendors.
- Conducted troubleshooting on equipment issues and coordinated repairs and replacements when necessary.
- Maintained records of operations, inventory, and maintenance activities.
Education
Apollo High School
Owensboro, KYTimeline
Team Leader
Southwire Company
01.2024 - Current
Strip Mill Operator
Southwire Company
09.2017 - 01.2024
Cable Mill Assistant
Southwire Company
08.2013 - 09.2017
Cable Mill Rewinder
Southwire Company
08.2011 - 08.2013
General Helper
Southwire Company
04.2011 - 08.2011
Plant Operator
Owensboro Grain Company
02.2001 - 04.2011
Apollo High School