Meet APM Steam Fossil Superintendent, Tommy Phillips!
Est. Read Time: 6 minutes
This month’s spotlight features APM Steam Fossil Superintendent, Tommy Phillips! Tommy was led to this industry by applying for a welding job in 1996. He first learned about APM from his co-workers while working for another contractor in 2000. He worked his first job with APM in 2004, making this his 20th year working with APM! At work, there are many roles Tommy is determined to take on. He believes we are role models to those that are eager to learn and advance, we are mentors to many, we are listeners to all, we are the voice of reason, we are motivators, we are the bridge between our craft team, our GE Vernova team, our supporting contractors and the site personnel. Outside of work, Tommy is a parent, a husband, and a son. We are so excited to spotlight Tommy and congratulate him on his recent APM award win! Read more to get to know his personal motto, life highlights, and perspectives on success and leadership.
What’s one thing that surprised you about working with APM?
The safety culture provided from the first day I was hired.
What is a typical workday for you?
I start the day with turnover identifying priorities then I perform our toolbox talk with the team covering our scheduled activities for the upcoming shift while listening to concerns or needs. Once that is completed, it’s on to assisting teams with the individual task STA cards & reviews. I spend the rest of my time coordinating throughout the shift, communicating with others onsite, and being present at task locations as much as possible to provide coaching, guidance, assistance and another set of eyes. I take as many detailed notes as possible to provide the best information possible to the oncoming shift, GE Vernova, our customer, and our management team.
What energizes you at work?
Learning new things every day and being able to teach new members, especially our younger generations.
What do you find the most challenging in your role?
Meeting the needs and/or demands of others.
What do you like most about working with APM?
The support and endless opportunities for growth.
How has APM helped you in your career development?
It has taught me how to be more flexible and to be ready for change.
What courses, certifications, or programs did you complete?
STS, UBC journeyman leadership training, and both gas and steam turbine training.
What is your proudest moment with APM?
Being requested back to multiple areas and sites by GE Vernova and/or our customers.
Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?
My Dad.
How do you prefer to spend your days off?
With my family. We enjoy camping, attending sporting events, and just hanging out watching movies together.
How do you balance your career at APM and family?
That sometimes is a challenge. Because sometimes during the off time, I am spending a certain amount of time working with our ODL’s, BA’s & prospective members for the next project. I do my best to limit this if we have appointments, our children’s activities, or plans with my wife.
What advice do you have for prospective APM candidates?
Don’t be afraid to speak up but also listen at the same time.
What is a non-work-related accomplishment that you’re proud of?
My family. Being able to see our children grow up and accomplish so many things in life.
Tommy’s Top Life Highlights
Getting married, watching our children as they grow into young adults, and their personal accomplishments.
Tommy’s Perspective on Leadership
Leadership is being the person that each person can feel comfortable going to for questions, advice or just someone to listen to them, even if it’s a personal matter. To be a leader is to be the best example for everyone else.
Tommy’s Definition of Success
Navigating through each and everyday with no injuries, no rework, no damaged equipment, and being the team that customers know they will receive their equipment back better than it was.
Tommy’s Personal Motto
Do it right the first time.