This month’s employee spotlight features APM Technical Advisor and Superintendent, Steven Putman! Steven has been recognized as a top employee by being highly knowledgeable and helpful while keeping a positive attitude. He constantly completes his work at the greatest level of safety and quality. Steven’s site presence is well-known, and he is routinely requested by site customers due to his awesome reputation. We are so excited to spotlight Steven! Read more to get to know his history with APM, proudest moments, and some of his favorite hobbies.

What led Steven to the company?

Steven joined the Carpenters Union 109 located in Sheffield, Alabama in 2001 and was asked to report to a steam plant with an APM crew. Steven met previous APM Superintendents, Jason Guthrie and Wayne Jennings, and made many more connections along the way. Steven recalls the beginning of his career as a Superintendent with APM after a phone call with a close friend and APM Superintendent, Barry Burroughs in 2005:

“I owe my APM career to a lot of people … Barry Burroughs, Gene McCrary, Matt McCrary, Wesley Owens, David Carrol, Dan Reinhardt, Cheryl Surowy, and Garry, Saundra, and Jerald Syphrett … as well as all of the workers that have made my job easy. Thanks to you all!”

 What is Steven’s proudest moment with APM?

Steven has been employed with APM for a total of 20 years. Since he transitioned into a Superintendent position, he has flourished in his leadership role and has built many great relationships with people at all levels of organizations. His pride in his work and dedication to customer satisfaction scored him a nomination for the APM Presidential Award. Being nominated is Steven’s proudest moment with APM.

“The APM Team is top notch, from the CEO to the employee, everyone matters,” commented Steven.

What energizes and inspires Steven most at work? What advice would he give a future APM employee?

Meeting the challenge to make the customer and APM successful, and a good start-up to a project, keeps Steven energized. Steven takes authentic inspiration from Operations Division Leader, Garry Syphrett, when approaching his work in a strategic manner.

“Thanks, Garry, for just being you,” added Steven.

Steven’s advice for prospective APM employees is to take pride in the work you contribute and maintain a positive attitude. It is also important to make eye contact with the customer to build a good partnership.

What does Steven enjoy during his free time?

Steven prefers to spend quality time with his family and catching up with paperwork. Steven also looks after his 20-acre farm with 30 cows.

“I’m looking forward to expanding and retirement, that’s my plan forward,” said Steven.

How does Steven define true leadership?

Steven defines true leadership through the level of guidance he provides to his crews, and the amount of available support he strives to provide.

“This industry is a tough one with many demands and challenges. I’m proud to say I represent APM, and I hope they can say the same. This family is awesome, and I’m glad to call them my APM family,” commented Steven.

Fun Facts!