In the Shop: You Have a Mission, Not Only a Job

 

As a Head Fabricator, my days aren't spent behind a desk. They're spent on the shop floor, hands-on, bringing designs to life and ensuring every cut, weld, and assembly meets our standards. But over the years, I've learned that the true craft of a fabricator isn't just about shaping metal; it's about shaping the team around you.

When you step into that workshop every morning, remember: 

You are not just clocking in for a job; you are stepping into a mission. A mission to lead, to connect, to support, and to elevate the people who work beside you.

Here's how I strive to transform my presence in the sign shop from a role into a resource, building the foundation of trust needed to become a respected leader and the go-to technical guide for my crew.

Build the Bridge of Trust and Affection (The Fabricator's Way)

Before you can lead with expertise, you must connect as a human. And on the shop floor, these small gestures make a huge difference:

Check-in and Connect: I always make it a point to ask my crew about their weekend or how things are going with their families. A simple, "How did your son's game go?" or "Everything okay at home?" shows you genuinely care, not just about the work, but about them.

Acknowledge Their Craft:

I'm there, I see the effort. So, I always express genuine appreciation for the work they’re doing. Even if it’s a tough day, a "That weld line is looking solid" or "You really tackled that tricky fit-up well" builds their confidence. This appreciation is the foundation for any guidance or mentorship I'll offer later.

The Sweet, Simple Gesture: 

Trust me, keeping a small bag of candy or treats on hand and offering a piece now and then is a game-changer. It’s cheap, breaks the routine, puts a smile on a face, and builds camaraderie quickly.

Embrace the Diversity (Especially Here in Canada)

In a Canadian shop, you're constantly working alongside folks from all corners of the globe. This diversity isn't just about different backgrounds; it's an opportunity to learn and connect:

Ask to Learn: I take a few minutes to respectfully ask about their culture, traditions, or where they come from. It shows I value them as individuals.

Acknowledge the Journey: Many on my team are immigrants. I listen when they share about the challenges of moving to a new country and how they cope. Empathy goes a long way.

Offer Concrete Help: If I can genuinely help with something outside of work – like recommending a good local service, or helping with a form – I offer.

Be the Technical Conduit and Support System

My role as Head Fabricator means I'm often the first point of contact for technical questions. To be truly effective, I make sure I'm constantly adding value.

Share the News: 

I keep an eye out for new equipment or innovative techniques in our field. Sharing a quick tip about a new cutting tool or a video of an improved welding process shows I'm invested in our collective growth.

Ensure Understanding After Meetings: 

After our Monday morning huddle, I always make sure to check in with team members who might struggle with English. It's crucial that everyone understands the plans and safety protocols.

Your Mission

Simply put: My mission is to create an atmosphere that breaks the monotony of work and puts a smile on faces.

We're fabricating signs, but just as importantly, we're building a strong, cohesive team. Because in this shop, we're not just doing jobs; we'r

e on a mission together.