Willie Louw

• Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering quality workmanship and meeting deadlines.
• Maintained workshop activities in line with budget requirements.
• Purchased and oversaw inventory of supplies, tools and equipment.
• Managed and led a team of technicians for optimal productivity and job satisfaction.
• Responsible for workshop operations, including opening and closing procedures.
• Led a team of staff, allocating tasks and overseeing workflow
• Ensured quality control of manufactured products, checking quality and quantity
• Preparation of job cards, streamlined workflow processes to prevent bottleneck effect to ensure fast runaround times.
• Sourced new suppliers and fabricators, assisting with engineering designs of new machinery.
• Reporting on production to management.
• Oversaw general workshop duties, suggesting process improvements and optimizing production.
• Oversaw equipment maintenance schedules, prolonging the lifespan of machinery while reducing downtime due to repairs.
• Implemented cost-saving initiatives, reducing overall expenses without compromising product quality.
• Appointed as Safety and Compliance Officer.
• Liaised with regulatory agencies such as OSHA during inspections to demonstrate adherence to applicable laws and regulations.
• Coordinated first aid supplies replenishment on-site, ensuring adequate medical resources were available when needed.
• Managed safety documentation, ensuring accurate records were maintained for audits and regulatory purposes.
• Promoted open communication channels between staff members regarding health and safety concerns or suggestions, fostering a collaborative environment that prioritized wellbeing.
• Trained Laser Machine operator and CNC machinest
• Optimized cutting processes for improved material utilization and reduced waste.

• Developed marketing strategies to drive foot traffic and increase sales of convenience store items.
• Managed daily operations for efficient fuel dispensing and inventory control, ensuring optimal performance.
• Enhanced employee training programs to improve service quality, resulting in higher customer retention rates.
• Monitored financial transactions for accuracy, preventing potential losses due to error or theft.
• Established relationships with local businesses to offer promotional discounts on fuel purchases, increasing community engagement.
• Oversaw facility maintenance, ensuring equipment was in good working order and minimizing downtime due to repairs or malfunctions.
• Coordinated staffing schedules to ensure adequate coverage during peak hours without sacrificing cost-efficiency measures like overtime reduction efforts.
• Manage all operational aspects of the filling station.
• Implemented safety protocols to minimize risk of accidents and maintain a secure work environment.
• Analyzed sales data to identify trends and adjust inventory levels accordingly, minimizing waste from expired products or overstocking issues.
• Conducted performance reviews for staff members, providing constructive feedback to enhance productivity and efficiency.

Carpentry and Building

• Oversaw development and implementation of training programs whilst still being handson and assisting to show teamwork and help build pipeline of future leaders.
• Experienced Set Squared Machinist and CNC Machinist with 10+ years' experience (Innovation Factory, Gearhouse International, TAKK studio's)
• Skilled in shopfitting, staging, and set building (11 years experience)

General Maintenance

• Worked from ladders, scaffolds and lifts to install, maintain, or repair electrical wiring equipment and lighting fixtures in ceilings, on roofs and on towers.
• Performed routine and complex maintenance and repairs on various electrical equipment.
• Inspected worksites and installations to verify compliance with state safety codes.
• Maintained project aesthetics, performing regular painting and repair work to enhance visual appeal.
• Enhanced welding quality by following precise welding procedures and maintaining proper equipment settings.

Leadership and Management

• Project and workshop manager with vast amount of experience in all departments.
• Implemented e-learning platforms for increased flexibility in delivering staff training across multiple locations.
• Collaborated with department leaders to ensure alignment between training content and company goals and to maximize employee performance.
• Associated with companies such as Gear House International, Expo Guys and Display Worx.

• Trainee Carpenter to Project Manager
• Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
• Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
• Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
• Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
• Developed foundational carpentry skills and woodwork expertise
• Interpreted drawings and floor plans for custom projects
• Built stages, stands, and structures to adhering to job specifications.
• Maintained tools and equipment for safe operation
• Achieved high levels of team engagement and morale by promoting collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Inspected job sites to identify potential hazards and establish protection and safety standards.
• Increased safety on job sites by diligently following industry best practices and OSHA guidelines during all carpentry tasks.
• Completed installations of building structures, trim, flooring, and cabinetry.