Thomas Howard
Lake Placid,FL
Summary
Highly skilled and experienced Maintenance Technician with over 30 years of dedicated service at Caterpillar Inc. Proven expertise in diagnosing and resolving complex mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues on heavy equipment. Adept at utilizing computerized diagnostic tools, interpreting schematics, and implementing proactive maintenance strategies to maximize equipment reliability and minimize downtime. Recognized for mentoring junior technicians and maintaining a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Maintenance Technician
CaterpillarInc
Lafayette, IN
09.1994 - Current
- Coordinated with suppliers to order replacement parts as needed.
- Tested repaired equipment to ensure proper operation before returning it to service.
- Communicated project status to management and customers and mentored newer mechanics in best practices.
- Read and followed schematics and diagrams for mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.
- Executed troubleshooting processes on equipment systems and components.
- Diagnosed mechanical problems on equipment using computerized diagnostic tools.
- Maintained a clean work area according to safety regulations.
- Performed preventative maintenance on all equipment, including changing oil, lubricating moving parts, and checking tire pressure.
- Troubleshot and diagnosed issues with heavy equipment systems.
- Documented all repairs performed on each machine in accordance with company policies.
- Assisted in training other technicians in operating procedures related to industrial equipment.
- Repaired hydraulic systems, engines, transmissions, brakes, and other components of the equipment.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Conducted preliminary checks and maintenance on vehicles and equipment.
- Performed regular maintenance checks on machines to detect potential problems early.
- Utilized hydraulic lifts to raise vehicles off the ground safely while performing maintenance checks.
- Maintained detailed records regarding all repairs, maintenance activities and costs incurred.
- Tested components and systems using infrared engine analyzers, compression gauges and computerized diagnostic devices.
- Followed established safety procedures when working on vehicles.
- Monitored shop equipment to maintain safe working condition.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Automotive
Danville Area Community College
Danville, IL05-1992
Skills
- Diagnostic Expertise: Advanced troubleshooting, computerized diagnostics, system analysis, root cause identification
- Maintenance & Repair: Preventative maintenance, hydraulic systems, engines, transmissions, brakes, welding, component repair/replacement
- Problem Solving: Critical thinking, analytical problem-solving, creative solutions, efficient issue resolution
- Operational Efficiency: Prioritization, time management, equipment testing, safety compliance, documentation
- Training & Mentorship: Mentoring junior technicians, training on operating procedures
Certification
- Certified Ariel Lift trainer
- Caterpillar certified welder
- Caterpillar licensed to operate all equipment
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Maintenance Technician
CaterpillarInc
09.1994 - Current
Associate of Applied Science - Automotive
Danville Area Community College
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