Meet APM US Boiler Operation Division Leader, John Baierlein!

This month’s spotlight features APM US Boiler Operation Division Leader, John Baierlein! John started his boiler making career on his 18th birthday at CP Crane Station in Baltimore, MD. His whole family consist of boilermakers – father, uncles, cousins – but what really captured his interest was the variety offered in the industry. One day you could be covered in fly ash, welding tubes in a boiler penthouse and the next you could be setting steel out in the fresh air. Every job is a new adventure and the people you meet along the way become an extended family. His first job working with APCom Power was in 2004 as an apprentice on a water wall replacement job. He has worked with APCom many times since then. John eventually came onboard with APM in August 2019 as the US Boiler Service Manager. In his current capacity, he fills the role of coach, mentor, leader, estimator, and negotiator. Outside of work, John is the assistant coach for his sons 15U baseball team – the Delmarva Aces North. We are so excited to spotlight John! Read more to get to know his interesting perspectives on success and leadership, surprising fact, and top life highlights.

What’s one thing that surprised you about working with APM?

The amount of craft that have moved into the “corporate” end of the business. The bulk of the ODL’s and ODM’s are ex-field employees.

What is a typical workday for you?

Not sure I have had a typical day in 3 years. Each day is a new challenge. My main function is to keep my superintendents rolling at site with any support I can provide. Mostly that consist of doing a double check on estimates, scheduling projections, helping with manpower requests and assignments, answering contract questions and dealing with business agents, coordinating resources with GE, following up on issues at sites, and putting out any fires that pop up throughout the day.

What energizes you at work?

The success of my team. When my guys finish a job or complete a task and the customer reaches out to compliment them, it is pretty special. I have some of the best leaders in the industry on my team and what they can accomplish still blows me away on a regular basis.

What do you find the most challenging in your role?

Balancing the needs of the business with the needs of the jobs. At any one time we can have over 15 jobs running, and managing my administrative functions while being available to support the sites can be a difficult chore.

What do you like most about working with APM?

The variety. One day I could stay pecking away on the keyboard, then the next I could be on a plane to visit a job site and meet with the crews and customers, and then the next, I'm off to participate in a contract negotiation. Each day is something different.

How has APM helped you in your career development?

In this role I have been challenged to grow as a leader. I spent a lot of time in the field running work. In this role I have seen more of the back end, what all goes into the planning and reconciling as well.

What courses, certifications, or programs did you complete?

I am currently working through my PMP certification and will be sitting for the PMP exam after the first of the year. I also hold the APCom contractor licenses in Michigan and Virginia.

What is your proudest moment with APM?

The award and execution of APM Boilers first customer direct job at Dominion Clover. We took the project from ITO through execution. The customer was impressed with our performance and it proved that we can still win and execute work on our own.

Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?

My manager – Laurie. Without the support and guidance she has provided, I probably would have left to go back to work in the field. She continues to push me to excel and impact the business. She allows me running room to try new things and make a difference.

How do you prefer to spend your days off?

Most of my free time during the season is spent on a baseball field. If we aren’t at a practice or a tournament, I enjoy traveling with my family and playing golf.

How do you balance your career at APM and family?

Our business is 24/7 so establishing that line in the sand is crucial. I let my voicemail get non-essential calls and make it a priority to unplug each night. If there is a chance to throw batting practice to my son or run out and grab ice cream with my wife, I take advantage of it.

What advice do you have for prospective APM candidates?

I have worked, as well as pushed work, for a lot of contractors. None of them value their people the way APM does. The support available to the field and operations teams is incredible and everyone is willing to help.

What is a non-work-related accomplishment that you’re proud of?

As a coach of youth sports, hearing from a mom or dad that I have had an impact on their child. I like to get on their level and help kids achieve their goals. Being told that something I have said or done has made a difference really hits home.

John's Definition of Success:

100% effort. You can’t control an outcome, only influence it. If you prepare and give it your all, no matter how it shakes out, you have done everything you can.

John's Favorite Quote:

“There may be people that have more talent than you, but there is no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do.” - Derek Jeter

John's Surprising Fact:

I served in several roles on the Executive Board of my Local 193 as the recording secretary, vice president and president.

John's Perspective on Leadership:

Sharing credit and owning failure. Inspiring others to want to do, not just do because you say.

John's Personal Motto:

Control what you can control.

John's Top Life Highlights:

Marrying the love of my life.

The birth of my son.

Taking my oath as an apprentice boilermaker.

All 3 events had a profound influence on my life.

John's Work Nickname:

Berline