Finding a gem in a golden oldie  

Last month Shop Talk looked at the retiring manufacturing work force.  We suggested that people of a certain age can prove valuable beyond the age of retirement.

 Our own shop benefits from such a person.  Don Patterson has been with RTSI for 3 years having “retired” after 30 years in a supervisory position in the aerospace industry. 

 Pat (as he is known), brings invaluable experience and perspective to our organization.  His former employer was a large corporate entity while RTSI is a lean establishment.  He has many great ideas for developing our employees and our shop procedures.  We have many younger employees who just don’t have a strong manufacturing background.  Everyone benefits from the positive flow of ideas and instruction Pat provides. 

As discussed in last month’s Shop Talk, a limited work schedule is sometimes necessary.  Pat works about 36 hours over a 4-day work week.  He says this is ideal – it still gives him time to fish and work in his yard.

 Pat is a key member of our staff and I hope he’ll be happy in his mentoring roll for a long time to come.  His knowledge and strong work ethic are the best examples we can provide to younger employees. 

 I’ve heard from many people that say retirement just isn’t for them right now – Pat is one of them.  He’s signed on for a 30 year tour with us – 27 years to retirement!