The Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) of the American Trucking Associations presented its Excellence in Maintenance Supervision Award to Charlie Weills, shift foreman for Swift Transportation, during TMC’s recent 2009 Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition in Orlando, Fla.
The award recognizes front-line supervisors who have displayed excellence and professionalism in maintenance supervision, both technically and administratively. Weills supervises eight technicians at Swift’s new facility in New Boston, Mich.
His direct supervisor, Pete Mueller, says Weills possesses a number of characteristics that make him an excellent supervisor. Perfect attendance, technical aptitude, a willingness to learn, and an ability to retain this knowledge once taught all have helped him rise quickly from an entry-level technician to his current position. According to Mueller, what sets Weills apart is his ability to maintain a calm and positive attitude no matter what the situation. This in turn boosts the morale of Weills’ direct reports.
During the past 17 months, Weills has maintained 100 percent compliance in routine maintenance, managed a 61 percent improvement in productivity and managed a 22 percent reduction in failure rates. All the while, he’s demonstrated excellent communications skills with co-workers and customers, and Swift has reaped many benefits from his talents.
Candidates for this award all were employed in direct supervision of maintenance technicians and exhibited superior performance in equipment maintenance supervision. Higher levels of management are not eligible for the award.
Any company interested in submitting a nominee for next year’s TMC “Excellence in Maintenance Supervision Award” should submit to TMC staff a brief 500-word essay on why the nominee should be selected. Copies of supporting documentation such as certifications, commendation letters, awards, etc. may be submitted with the nominating essay. A special panel of TMC leaders selects award winners each year.
Nominations should be submitted to: TMC Selection Panel, Excellence in Maintenance Supervision Awards, c/o Technology & Maintenance Council, American Trucking Associations, 950 N. Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22203.
