Keith Horner

Manufacturing Specialist and People Leader

After obtaining an Electrical & Computer Engineering BS from NC State University, my career began in the mid-80s working at a small automation/controls place which operated in the mid-Atlantic states. This was great for a young, energetic person. Dozens of industries were available for small to large controls projects. Witnessing all the varieties of solutions and operating environments, I learned at an accelerated pace about manufacturing. I simply fell in love with it.
In the early 90s, an opportunity came to me to work in the Midwest, Indiana specifically. Thoroughly enjoyed that part of the country. The people were so genuine and friendly. This was a different dynamic, a large manufacturer of aluminum. The electricians there taught me a lot that I was not aware I was missing. The first job really taught me what controls can do and process engineering. This job taught me the inside story of business processes, technical processes actually working at a site versus coming and going.
Later in the 90s, the global economy was hit forcing me to view my options. I found an opportunity in Florida. Who wouldn’t want to work in Florida, right?! Because of the variety of experiences, I was an excellent fit for what they needed – a night shift engineer. I also enjoy coaching and teaching others what I’ve learned. Their operation was taking operators to the next level – technicians. I so enjoyed that work that I’m still there. My career at this one medical device manufacturer has taken many different turns, which I like. Variety and problem solving (technical or business processes) in a manufacturing environment has been my passion. I’ve worked long enough and tried so many different roles to know what I’m a good fit for and what roles someone else would do better.
Happy to join Darwin on this session to share some perspectives and experiences that will hopefully improve your operation.