SEPTEMBER 2023
NEWSLETTER MONTHLY
Table of CONTENTS 03 04 06 08 08 Maintainer Spotlight Division Spotlight Safety Feature New Hires Open Positions
MAINTAINER SPOTLIGHT: AARON GARCIA
GARCIA’S PATH TO EXCELLENCE
Aaron Garcia, a Signal Maintainer from Hutchinson, Kansas, who has been a valuable part of our team for the past 1 year and 4 months.
Aaron’s life revolves around his beloved familyhis wife Brittany and four sons, along with their dogs and a feline friend. Family is his constant motivation.
Before joining CDL, Aaron was a Debt Collections Operation Manager for six years. He transitioned to signal maintenance with no prior experience, showcasing his commitment to growth.
Aaron’s key takeaway from his role is the importance of continuous learning. He encourages colleagues to never hesitate to ask questions.
Despite challenges like late-night call-outs, Aaron’s adaptability and problem-solving skills make him an invaluable asset to our team. Aaron appreciates CDL’s commitment to customer service, which sets us apart.
Beyond work, he enjoys fishing, grilling, and coaching youth football. His favorite quote, “To be your ABSOLUTE best, you must be BETTER than you were yesterday,” reflects his dedication to self-improvement.
If given the chance, Aaron would love to meet Coach Mike Gundy from the Oklahoma State Cowboys and choose the ability to fly as his superpower. Aaron Garcia is an exemplary member of our CDL family, showcasing hard work and a constant pursuit of excellence. We’re proud to have him as a part of our team.
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POWERING UP EXCELLENCE
UNVEILING CDL GENERATOR DIVISION’S STANDBY GENERATORS AND BEYOND
We take pride in delivering standby generators that range in sizes from 10kW up to 200kW. These standby generators are the cornerstone of our operations, and they continue to be the majority of the projects we undertake.
While standby generators are our flagship products, we’ve diversified our equipment offerings to cater to a wider array of needs in the power generation sector. In addition to standby generators, we also supply:
Mobile Generators: These versatile units are ideal for applications requiring mobility and adaptability. Whether it’s a construction site, outdoor event, or any temporary power requirement, our mobile generators have you covered.
Portable Light Towers: We understand that adequate lighting is crucial in many industries, especially in construction and events. Our portable light towers deliver the illumination you need, wherever you need it.
Our commitment to delivering value goes beyond equipment sales. CDL Generator Division offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support our customers throughout their power generation journey:
Turn-Key Installation: Our experienced team ensures that your generator is seamlessly integrated into your facility, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.
Annual Preventative Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to keeping your generators running at peak performance. Our maintenance services are designed to prevent issues before they arise, saving you time and money.
Generator Dealer Monitoring: We provide real-time monitoring and support to our dealer network, ensuring they can serve their customers effectively.
Generator Load-Bank Testing: We offer load-bank testing services to validate the reliability and performance of generators under various load conditions, giving our customers the confidence that their generators are ready when needed.
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Air-Cooled Gen (residential) Liquid-Cooled (commercial)
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
Earlier this year, our generator division achieved a significant milestone by securing a contract with the City of Ottawa. The contract involves the supply of a robust 250kW Mobile Diesel generator, designed with mobility in mind, allowing it to be easily transported and utilized across various locations within the city.
As part of this endeavor, we are gearing up for the next phase of the project, which entails the installation of manual transfer switches at the city’s public works water pump stations. This project has been a long time in the making, spanning nearly two years from the initial estimate to its successful final completion.
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The successful execution of this project stands as a testament to our team’s expertise and commitment to excellence. Looking ahead, we are enthusiastic about the prospect of taking on more large-scale projects of this nature in the near future.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: CHAD BECKER
A MODEL OF DEDICATION AND GROWTH AT CDL
Meet Chad Becker, a dedicated member of our team from Norton, Kansas. Chad’s journey with CDL began when he ventured into the world of generator maintenance seven years ago. His valuable advice to fellow employees is a testament to his growth mindset: “Be open to learning something new, no matter who is teaching it to you.” Chad has been surprised by the consistent demand for generator maintenance each year, emphasizing the critical role this service plays in our operations. Moreover, his time at CDL has taught him that public relations is just as vital as the quality of the work performed, underscoring the importance of fostering positive relationships with clients and colleagues alike. Chad Becker is a shining example of dedication and adaptability within our team, embodying the spirit of continuous learning and professionalism that makes CDL proud.
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SAFEGUARDING AGAINST ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
CRITICAL SAFETY MEASURES FOR ELECTRICAL HAZARD PREVENTION
Electrical safety is paramount in any workplace. In the United States, electrical accidents lead to approximately 165,000 electrical fires, 900 fatalities, and 7,000 injuries annually, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International. These accidents are preventable through a clear understanding of electrical principles and identification of potential hazards.
Essential Electrical Insights
Electricity’s Path: Electricity naturally seeks the path of least resistance to the ground. If you happen to be in that path due to a shorted wire, malfunctioning tool, or appliance, you can experience a dangerous shock.
Shock Dangers: When electricity passes through your body and vital organs, it can result in serious injury. This is why electrical safety is crucial.
Adopting Electrical Safety Practices
Red Tag for Danger: Identify and remove frayed, defective, or damaged power cords, plugs, switches, appliances, and tools. Use a red tag labeled “DO NOT USE” and notify your supervisor for proper action.
Plug Compatibility: Always use plugs that match the receptacle’s prong or blade patterns. Never modify plugs by removing, bending, or twisting prongs or blades.
Recognizing Overloads: Dimming lights, tripped circuit breakers, blown fuses, and warm receptacles or cords are signs of potential circuit overloads. Reduce the load by disconnecting appliances or tools.
Proper Load: Understand that a 15-amp circuit should not exceed a 1,500-watt load, and a 20-amp circuit should not exceed a 2,000-watt load for less than three hours. For longer use, limit the load to 80% of capacity.
Wet Equipment: Never touch wet power tools or appliances that are in water. Deenergize them before handling.
Fuse Size: Never replace a correctly-sized fuse with a larger one.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): Use GFCIs when electricity and water are near, and during construction, maintenance, or remodeling activities involving temporary wiring.
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Electrical extension cords are common tools in workplaces, but they can pose hazards if not used correctly. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports around 4,000 injuries and 3,300 residential fires caused by extension cords each year. To prevent these incidents, follow these guidelines:
Capacity Matters: Ensure extension cords can handle the power demands of connected devices, especially for longer cords.
Wire Gauge: Check the cord for information on wire gauge and amperage rating. Use a heavier gauge for longer extensions.
No Daisychaining: Avoid connecting multiple cords for added length.
No Tape Repairs: Never use tape to repair damaged cords. It conceals issues and compromises safety.
Proper Usage: Extension cords are not for securing or hauling equipment; don’t use them for purposes other than their intended use.
Inspect for Damage: Regularly check cords for wear and tear. Don’t use cords with exposed inner conductors or missing grounding posts.
Prevent Pinching: Don’t run cords through doors, ceilings, or hinged door openings, as this can cause damage. Protect cords in such areas temporarily.
Vehicle Traffic: Avoid vehicles running over cords, as this can damage them. Use protective coverings or tape to prevent tripping hazards.
Temporary Use Only: Extension cords should never replace permanent wiring; avoid attaching them to building surfaces or concealing them long-term.
Monitor for Heat: While in use, check plugs and cords for excessive heat or plastic softening. Replace any cord showing signs of overheating.
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EXPANDING OUR TEAM
WELCOMING TALENTED NEW ADDITIONS
Name Position
Gilbert Ortiz Signal Maintainer
Grant Smith File Clerk
Justin Ourso Maintenance Electrician
Leonardo Rabanalez Apprentice Electrician
Seth Middleton Apprentice Electrician
Adrian Garrido HVAC Installer
Thomas Posey Installation Technician
Kenneth McBride Signal Maintainer
Name Position
Charles Costello Director of Transportation
Bonette Meeks Signal Maintainer
Shawn Conley Service Tech
Brandon James Journeyman Electrician
Steven McCollom Apprentice Electrician
Christopher Harrison Signal Maintainer
Preston Osborn Estimator
Damion Roeder Signal Maintainer
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OPEN POSITIONS
Refer a new employee and be paid up to $500 per employee hired based on position. You must fill out a candidate referral form. Payout is in two increments of 60 days of employee hired and 90 days of employee hire date.
Location Title
Pittsburg, KS Journeyman Lineman
Location Title
Pittsburg, KS
Service Electrician
Pittsburg, KS Master/Journeyman
Pittsburg, KS Accountant
Pittsburg, KS
Master/Journeyman Plumber
Pittsburg, KS Journeyman Electrician
Pittsburg, KS
Plumbing Service Technician
Pittsburg, KS Journeyman Plumber
Pittsburg, KS Railroad Signal Installer
Pittsburg, KS Mechanical Engineer
Pittsburg, KS Commercial Electrician
Pittsburg, KS
HVAC Service Technician
Pittsburg, KS HVAC Service Assistant
Pittsburg, KS Boring Foreman
Pittsburg, KS Boring Tracker/ Operator
Pittsburg, KS HVAC Installer
Pittsburg, KS
Pittsburg, KS
Joplin, MO
HVAC Technician
HVAC Service Technician
Journeyman Electrician
Journeyman Electrician
Joplin, MO Wire Shop Technician
Joplin, MO Construction Estimator
Joplin, MO Service Electrician
Humboldt, KS HVAC Installer
Humboldt, KS Master Plumber
Humboldt, KS
Plumbing Service Technician
Humboldt, KS Journeyman Plumber
Humboldt, KS
HVAC Service Assistant
Humboldt, KS HVAC Lead Installer
Houston, TX Journeyman Electrician
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