Stephen P. Sopelak
Polk City,FL
Summary
Dynamic maintenance professional with extensive experience at Builders First Source/Trussway, excelling in PLC troubleshooting and electrical diagnostics. Proven track record in designing automated systems and training technicians, showcasing strong leadership and problem-solving skills. Committed to enhancing operational efficiency and safety in high-paced environments.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Leadman for Maintenance Department
Builders First Source/Trussway
Orlando, FL
04.2020 - Current
- Serviced electrical and mechanical equipment, including drives and PLC systems.
- Trained technicians in electrical and mechanical troubleshooting, improving the team skill set.
- Designed and fabricated automatic conveyor systems, streamlining material handling processes.
- Refurbished and installed servo-style component and linear saws, enhancing operational capabilities.
Maintenance Technician
QuietFlex Mfg.
Groveland, FL
11.2018 - 04.2020
- Executed service line technician duties for a 45-station production line, focusing on safety upgrades, automation enhancements, troubleshooting, and mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical repairs to maintain operational flow.
- Conducted repairs on motors, belts, pumps, and conveyor components to maintain production efficiency.
- Maintained QuietFlex Mfg production equipment and support systems.
- Inspected machinery for wear, leaks, and unsafe conditions.
- Implemented ergonomic operator upgrades to improve workstation comfort and efficiency, positively impacting employee productivity.
Plant Mechanic
Lane Construction
Lakeland, FL
11.2017 - 11.2018
- Performed maintenance on three asphalt plants, removing and replacing electric motors and gearboxes, and welding and fabricating metals to ensure optimal plant operations.
- Repaired engines, hydraulics, and drive systems on mobile equipment.
- Maintained Lane Construction plant equipment, including crushers, conveyors, and loaders.
- Inspected machinery for wear, leaks, and mechanical faults.
Miscellaneous / Structural Layout Fitter
United Steel Co.
East Hartford, CT
12.2014 - 10.2017
- Interpreted blueprints from computer-generated drawings and handwritten sketches to ensure accurate construction.
- Fabricated railings, stairs, access ladders, tube frames, columns, and sheet metal components.
- Relocated to Florida for personal reasons.
Business Owner
D & S Welding & Fabrication LLC
New Britain, CT
01.2011 - 01.2014
- Developed accurate estimates for stair and railing projects across multiple locations, ensuring competitive pricing. Managed welding and fabrication shop, producing high-quality metal work that met client specifications. Oversaw comprehensive small business operations, integrating management and finance to support sustainable growth.
- Directed welding and fabrication operations for custom metalwork and repair projects.
- Managed customer estimates, project details, and service requests for D & S Welding & Fabrication LLC.
- Reviewed blueprints, drawings, and specifications for accurate shop fabrication.
Shop Foreman
Berlin Steel Construction Co.
Berlin, CT
01.2005 - 01.2011
- Supervised Berlin Steel shop crews and assigned daily fabrication work.
- Coordinated job schedules and ensured availability of shop supplies to maintain operational workflow and compliance with safety standards.
- Coordinated steel shop workflow with welding, fitting, and assembly teams.
- Inspected structural steel parts for quality and drawing compliance.
- Designed and inspected stairs, railings, and light structural steel to meet safety and quality standards.
Sole Fabricator / Welder for shop
Farmington Displays, Inc.
Farmington, CT
01.1999 - 01.2005
- Lead Man for Metal Fabrication Division. Production of high quality custom trade show displays such as Diesel Jeans, Kate Spade Accessories, Lord and Taylor, Nordstrom, and Adidas.
- Executed machining processes using a lathe and milling equipment to produce precise components for custom fabrication projects.
- Performed field installations for aluminum, stainless, and steel welding, ensuring structural integrity and quality.
Education
Associate of Arts - welding, blueprint reading
Technical Careers Institute
Windsor, CT01-1987
Skills
- PLC maintenance
- Electrical diagnostics
- Mechanical troubleshooting
- Preventive maintenance
- Servo systems
- Conveyor system design
- High/Low voltage wiring and troubleshooting
- Hydraulic systems
Timeline
Leadman for Maintenance Department
Builders First Source/Trussway
04.2020 - Current
Maintenance Technician
QuietFlex Mfg.
11.2018 - 04.2020
Plant Mechanic
Lane Construction
11.2017 - 11.2018
Miscellaneous / Structural Layout Fitter
United Steel Co.
12.2014 - 10.2017
Business Owner
D & S Welding & Fabrication LLC
01.2011 - 01.2014
Shop Foreman
Berlin Steel Construction Co.
01.2005 - 01.2011
Sole Fabricator / Welder for shop
Farmington Displays, Inc.
01.1999 - 01.2005
Associate of Arts - welding, blueprint reading
Technical Careers Institute