From Mill Apprentice to CMMS Expert and Maintenance Leader with Chris Smith

In this episode of CMMSradio, host Greg interviews Chris Smith, a seasoned expert in maintenance management with a military background. Chris shares his journey into the maintenance field, starting as an apprentice at a paper mill and evolving through various roles in the steel industry and public transportation. He discusses the importance of effective CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) implementation and user adoption, highlighting his experience with Upkeep, a CMMS platform that empowers maintenance teams. Chris emphasizes the need for proper asset hierarchy, training, and defect elimination in maintenance practices. He also introduces his side venture, Task Lytix, aimed at optimizing maintenance processes. The conversation underscores the significance of service and support in CMMS solutions, advocating for a focus on real-world problems rather than just features.

Bullet Points

• Greg introduces the episode, highlighting the importance of learning from experts.
• The focus is on the American Tank and Fabricating Company (AT&F) and Task Lytix, which optimizes maintenance.
• Guest Chris Smith, a maintenance expert with a military background, shares his journey into the maintenance field, starting as an apprentice at a paper mill.
• Chris discusses his military service and subsequent roles in the steel industry, including becoming a CMMS administrator.
• He emphasizes the importance of effective CMMS systems and how they can improve maintenance operations.
• Chris explains the challenges of using ERP systems for maintenance and how Upkeep, a CMMS, has empowered his team.
• He highlights the significance of user adoption, training, and support from CMMS providers as key differentiators.
• Chris shares insights on the importance of asset hierarchy, CMMS optimization, defect elimination, and PM optimization in maintenance management.
• He introduces his venture, Task Lytix, aimed at addressing common issues in maintenance management and promoting best practices.