Ryan Kozikowski
Coil Winder, BRUSH Americas Services
What was your first job?
Sandcastle maintenance
What do you do in your current role?
We all wear multiple hats within this company. My main tasks / assignments are to wind rotors. A coil winder is someone who manipulates copper straps around a steel forging. But also insulates every strap of copper from one another. If you could, imagine coil winding as if you and your team were running a relay race around a track field. We also have many processes that involve cleaning of parts, assembly, etc.
How/why did you begin your career in manufacturing?
I went to trade school instead of college, and I advanced in AC/DC motors through school. We had heard about a coil winder apprenticeship that was just starting. So, I applied to join and that is where my career started in manufacturing
What is your educational background?
After I graduated from Carrick High School, I then went to Dean Institute of Technology to get my associates degree as an electrical technician
What do you like most about your current position and work you are doing in manufacturing?
The thing that I like most about my current role is learning something new every day. But also, all the opportunities that come along. Some of these opportunities could be field service, electrical testing, NDT testing, or working in our balance facility, etc.
What is the biggest thing that surprised you about manufacturing when you started working in the industry?
How much attention to detail and thought needs to go into doing every task while maintaining safety and working efficiently.
What is your #1 piece of advice for young people to prepare for a successful future?
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions no matter what. There is no such thing as a stupid question.
- Never assume anything and always validate assumptions.
Why should someone consider a career in manufacturing?
The manufacturing industry has been around since the early 18th century and it is not going anywhere. So, you can build a solid foundation for your future
What is something you enjoy doing outside of work?
Relaxing, traveling, and experiencing new things
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