Employee Spotlight | Meet APM Canada Superintendent, Cristian Mafud

Behind every successful team are dedicated team members and today, we’re spotlighting one in Cristian Mafud. With nearly 10 years at APM under his belt, Cristian has worked his way from a first-year apprentice to a 2024 Superintendent of the Year nomination.

Words From Leadership

“Cristian is a true mentor, especially to our younger apprentices. His approachable, hands-on style makes him someone people want to learn from and work alongside. He doesn’t just explain how things are done. He teaches the "why," developing not just skilled craft, but critical thinkers.” – Craig Mosier

Cristians Journey with APM

From a young age, Cristian developed a strong passion for electronics, often spending time working on motorcycles with his best friend and mentor, Frank Hernandez. After graduating from university, he worked as a maintenance coordinator in a factory before eventually moving to Canada. It was there that Frank Hernandez and Paul Mahe introduced him to APM, where Cristian quickly found excitement in the new challenges and learning opportunities each day brings.

“APM has given me the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. From day one, I’ve been given tools and confidence to develop my skills.”

Cristians leadership journey has been shaped by the people who have influenced, supported, and guided him along the way.

“I’d especially like to recognize my mentors Paul Mahe and Frank Hernandez, as well as Craig Mosier. I’m also grateful to Derek Steele and Ben Storie, who supported me as a first-year apprentice on my first Major Inspection giving me even more confidence that I was capable, and to Deryk Swayze, Jim Whitfield, and Tim Fisher for giving me opportunities to prove myself every time I worked with them or under their guidance.” - Cristian

Community, Safety, and Leadership

One thing that surprised Cristian about working with APM was the family-like atmosphere.

“I felt welcome from day one, and I’ve built many great friendships along the way.”

Cristian notes that the safety culture and camaraderie among employees at APM is what stands out compared to companies that he previously worked for. Which is why the most challenging and rewarding part of his role is the responsibility of ensuring all his crew members get home safe.

“Knowing their families are waiting for them adds a level of pressure that I take very seriously.”

Cristian is a strong example of leadership through his continuous openness to learning. He consistently demonstrates a willingness to grow, listen, and develop, which reflects both humility and a strong commitment to improvement.

“I’ve learned something valuable from everyone I’ve worked with and try to incorporate those lessons into my own approach.” – Cristian

Work Life Balance

Cristian prefers to spend his days off at home with his family, where everything revolves around them. Although being away from home is challenging, his wife’s support makes balancing his career at APM and his family possible. She takes care of everything at home while Cristians on the road and he is very grateful for that.

Cristian encourages future APM employees to:

“Show up every day, work hard, ask questions, and keep learning. APM recognizes effort and provides opportunity for growth.”