Day in the Life: Faron – Plant Manager
- 2 min read
“Hi, I’m Faron Ritz. If you decide to work in the oilfields, you’ll probably use some of the supplies and equipment my company sells. The plant I supervise here in Blackfalds, Alberta, manufactures storage tanks, pressure vessels and piping for oil and gas companies.
Most people in my job have business degrees, but I took a different route, starting as a journeyman welder. Five years ago I started my own welding business and worked for NWP as a contractor. When they offered me a full-time job as plant manager, I took it because I wanted a job with more status and responsibility. In retrospect, I made the right decision. I like being in charge of my own destiny.
Having that responsibility means I usually work 10 or 12 hours a day, and I often come into the plant on weekends. However, I can arrange to take time off in the afternoon to go to my daughter’s music competitions.
I love what I do. Manufacturing is an extension of me. It’s rewarding when I see our profitability go up and our product quality improve.”
Company: NWP Industries
Location: Moose Jaw, SK
Base Salary Range: $78,000 – $148,000. Many companies also offer additional compensation in the form of an annual bonus.
Education: A business degree or equivalent on-the-job experience Advancement: Scope for the individual to expand his/her job responsibilities.
Salary, education and advancement may vary from company to company.