Shawn has worked at AFSI for almost 5 years as our Supplier Development Engineer in the Global Procurement Department. Every day in his job is a little different, and that’s what keeps it interesting. Supply assurance is always his top priority, so he goes wherever the risks or needs of the day take him. A big part of his role is focused on supply-risk management, supplier performance, and supplier capacity. He also spends a lot of time building and maintaining strong supplier relationships to keep everything moving smoothly. In addition to that, Shawn manages all AFSI and Caterpillar-owned tooling at our suppliers, making sure tools are running as they should and supporting any issues that come up. He is always looking for ways to reduce cost, improve processes, and increase capacity across our supply base.
Shawn’s favorite part of his job is that every day is different. He gets to work closely with our key suppliers, and he collaborates with just about every department at AFSI as well as members of the Caterpillar team. What he loves most about AFSI is how the company truly puts its people first. You can feel the support and teamwork every day. It’s a place where you’re encouraged, appreciated, and part of a strong, collaborative team. He said it is just a great place to come to work.
A professional accomplishment that Shawn is most proud of is a carton return program with one of our key suppliers of plastic parts. The program turns what used to be a one-and-done corrugated box into something we use multiple times. This cuts down on how much waste ends up in the landfill, and it also lets AFSI earn money from a waste stream we used to just throw away. It’s a simple change that’s good for the environment and benefits the company financially.
The best piece of advice someone has given him is just because something has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the right way. Always be willing to challenge the old method an dlook for a better one.
When not at work, Shawn’s favorite hobby is his aquariums. He said his saltwater reef aquariums have officially cross the line from “hobby” to “full-blown addiction.” At this point, his fish get more upgrades than his house. When he’s not feeding coral or staring at rocks that cost way too much, he is traveling with his wife, handing out with the grandkids, or – when the weather finally cooperates – riding his Harley like he’s trying to outrun his responsibilities.