The final spotlight for the month of October features APM Canada Superintendent, Jari Plesowicz! Jari began his career as a Canadian Millwright in 1994 and has been with APM for over 30 years. He has found much success in his tenure and was nominated as Superintendent of the Year for the Canada division in 2022! Read more to get to know his career journey, valuable learnings, and insights on success and leadership.

What are some roles you have at work, and outside of work? (ex. Superintendent, parent, board member, etc.)                                          

Superintendent at work. At home, I’m a husband and father, and I have been married for 32 years. I’m also a dad to two wonderful boys. I am a member of the Polish Canadian Community.

What is your official job title with APM?

Superintendent/Field Supervisor

What led you to this industry and how did you first learn about APM?

I’m an Industrial Mechanic by trade, graduated 1983 in Poland. I started as a tradesman in Canada, April 1994. I was introduced to an ITS company by John Molyneux, employee of this company, later APM EHS.

When did you begin working with APM and how many years have you been working with APM?

I started on June 8,1994 as an ITS company, later known as GETSCO and now APM. I’m fortunate to be with APM for over 30 years.

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

Their commitment to safety and quality stunned me. APM goes above and beyond the industry standard in the way it treats all its employees.

What is a typical workday for you?

A typical day starts with a supervision crossover meeting to review the work done and plan the work ahead, followed by a toolbox talk to start the day off with safety and quality reminders and develop a plan of work. I assign jobs and supervise the work progress throughout the day, and keep up with the daily timesheets and reports.

What energizes you at work?

Different equipment, environments, and location. The most important is the constant opportunity to learn and improving my skills and experience!

What do you find the most challenging in your role?

The most challenging (and rewarding) is to work with inexperienced trades personnel. It was hard in the beginning but when the job was complete and all went well, it gives me satisfaction that my knowledge and experience helped successfully complete the given outage.

What do you like most about working with APM?                                                      

APM has high standards in various areas, mainly its continued commitment to advancement and improvement of lean tools and training.

How has APM helped you in your career development?

APM has provided me opportunities to work on wide variety of units in different locations, thereby adding to my scope of experience and knowledge.

What courses, certifications, or programs did you complete?

I graduated with a diploma in Industrial Mechanics in Poland. After emigration to    Canada, I successfully challenged my Millwright ticket.     

What is your proudest moment with APM?                                                                 

There are many moments. Most recently, was the 2022 Presidential Award nominee for Superintended of the Year. In addition, I received the 2017 recognition of outstanding accomplishments and inspirational leadership in the field of execution. Also, Top Steam Turbine Superintendent for 2013. Finally, the Star of Excellence Safety Award in 2011.

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

There are a few people in our company that I’m thankful for their commitment and support, Craig Mosier and Gary Vanderloo are among them.

How do you prefer to spend your days off?                                                          

I enjoy spending time with my family: relaxing, enjoying outdoor activities and taking holiday trips.

How do you balance your career at APM and family?                                             

 It can be challenging at times but, whenever it is possible, my wife and both sons come at different times to see me and spend quality time together. In addition, taking quality trips with my wife and kids after fall outages are concluded.

What advice do you have for prospective APM candidates?                              

The advice is simple - always do your best, follow work and safety procedures, and above all else, have integrity.

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

Finding my true love, marrying her, and having wonderful family together. In my younger days I was awarded a trophy as a highest scoring defenseman in Polish junior league. The same year I was approached to play in the Polish Primary League. However, I chose to emigrate to Canada with my family.

Favorite quote?

“It is what it is, we move forward.”

How do you define success?

Professional success for me is completing a job safely, efficiently, quality issue free and in the timely manner. 

Motto or personal mantra?

Integrity, honesty, and accountability.

People would be surprised if they knew:

 I’m very sensitive and emotional.

Top three life highlights?

1. Emigrating to Canada

2. Wife and kids

3. Becoming a Millwright Journeyman

What does true leadership mean to you?

Leadership means to listen and hear, to give constructive advice, to coach and   mentor, and to correct (if necessary) by giving positive feedback.