Employee Spotlight – Meet APM Renewables Superintendent, Robert Blundon!
This month’s Employee Spotlight features Renewables Superintendent, Robert Blundon! Robert started with APM in 2007 and has found much success since. In fact, he was recently nominated as Superintendent of the Year for the Renewables Division at our January Awards Gala! Check out the below information to learn more about Robert’s perspectives on life and leadership.
What are some roles you have at work, and outside of work? (ex. Superintendent, parent, board member, etc.)
- Superintendent/SME/Certified Mechanic
- Parent of Five Kids
- Fish and Game
- Charter Rep. Boy-Scouts
What led you to this industry and how did you first learn about APM?
A friend of mine told me about being a Millwright. I called the local BA and asked if I could give it a try. He said, “So you want to be a Millwright, huh?” My first job was with APM in Bucksport Maine Papermill on a 7FA Dual Fuel Gas Turbine.
What’s one thing that surprised you about working with APM?
That safety was and always will be #1.
What is a typical workday for you?
Every day is different. Usually, I see what needs to be done and the order of importance. Then, I come up with a plan for the day. I sit down with my crew, and we brief about the safest way to complete this plan.
What energizes you at work?
Seeing the outcome of a project. Also, I enjoy what I do for a living.
What do you find the most challenging in your role?
The most challenging aspect is taking a step back when pressure is pushed onto me. There have been times we did not meet the schedule, but we got it done safely and didn’t damage any equipment. All the rest fell into place.
What do you like most about working with APM?
Every day is different from jobs to locations and people. Safety is #1 and I appreciate knowing management has my back when it comes to it.
How has APM helped you in your career development?
They saw the potential I had, provided me with all necessary training, and let me move up ladder to become a Superintendent.
What courses, certifications, or programs did you complete?
- Superintendent courses and training
- Union course and training
- Mass. Hoisting and Fork Truck LIC.
I try to take any and all training I can!
What is your proudest moment with APM?
Probably when we took a US Navy Destroyer out to Sea for Sea Trials. Also, when we delivered a US Navy Destroyer to another shipyard.
Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?
Many experienced Superintendents and Keymen have taught me a lot.
How do you prefer to spend your days off?
With my wife and kids fishing, hiking, shooting, and working on my house.
How do you balance your career at APM and family?
Another hard one to do. I must keep them very separate. Spend whatever extra time I have with the them when I’m home -- and when I’m at work, keeping my head in the game to better focus on the task at hand.
What advice do you have for prospective APM candidates?
Work hard and it will pay off. Being a Superintendent comes with a lot of responsibility with a priority in making sure everyone makes it home safe. It’s not only my job but my personal goal on every job.
What is a non-work-related accomplishment that you’re proud of?
Raising all five of our kids. Our oldest two graduate in June of 2024. Two of our boys reached Eagle Scout. I guess I’d say my biggest non-work-related accomplishment is raising them all to be good human beings.
Favorite quote?
“You must always push the limits. Because if you never fail, you will never win.”
How do you define success?
Watching my kids grow up to be successful adults in society and to be living peaceful with no worries.
Motto or personal mantra?
There’s going to be a test one day. So… pay attention!
People would be surprised if they knew:
That my wife and I knew each other as teenagers, and reconnected 10+ years later and have been together since.
What does true leadership mean to you?
Always remembering everyone on the team matters. A job title does not mean you know it all. Ask the questions and realize that you cannot meet everyone’s deadlines every time. Leadership means having the best interest of everyone at heart, and finishing the job safely so everyone goes home.