Graduate of University of Victoria in Mechanical Engineering
Over 15 years of experience primarily in brewing and distilling equipment manufacturing and wastewater systems design
Joined SMS in 2012 as Project Manager, created and managed the PM department since 2015, and has led the team to deliver over 1000 projects on both quality and quantity, while advancing the company’s products and technologies, and providing excellent customer service.
Created the in-house Automation Team within the PM department, and successfully led the overall development of Specbrew and semi-automation platforms. Developed much of the larger 3-4 vessel brewhouse and plumbing design standards. Both were critical to establishing Specific as a leader in larger craft brewery systems.
Created a master scheduling/resource allocation tool and library of labour estimates and use them to manage the company production schedule. This has significantly improved Specific’s track record for on-time delivery and ability to forecast lead times and projected revenue.
Successfully led the SMS PM team through the transition to incorporating distillation projects into the repertoire, including the continuous refinement of fabrication and design processes to suit.
Graduated top of his class in Mechanical Engineering at BCIT
Co-founded Vital Manufacturing, gaining recognition as a world-class machinery design and manufacturing company providing turn-key solutions to the food and beverage industry
Josh continues to play a critical role in the company’s growth as Technology & Innovation Lead
Over 34 years experience in the logistics industry with increasing scope and responsibilities as he supported multiple facilities and various clients throughout North America for DHL Supply Chain.
Member of many start up or acquisition teams with clients such as, Kroger Foods, Unilever, Conagra Foods, Wal Mart, Groupon, Alberta Liquor Control Board, Safeway, New Hampshire Liquor Commission, and Save On Foods
Led and managed several turnaround teams in large complex distribution facilities that successfully reengineered operating structures and facility layouts resulting in significant reductions to operating costs by improving productivity by 30% and improved service levels and KPIs
Successful in creating team atmospheres and promoting high morale and engagement thereby reducing operating costs 10-15% annually
Successfully negotiated ten-year union contract extension two years ahead of schedule
Designed Health and Safety programs, trained employee groups to implement safer working habits, reduced incidents and lost time. Achieved WorkSafe COR certification and reduction of WCB costs of $1.3 million over 3 years
Over 13 years experience in the manufacturing industry, overseeing projects from feasibility and quote through product launch APQP and production, and ongoing continuous improvement and quality management
Experience in metallurgy, metrology, as well as ISO13485, IATF16949 and ISO9001 QMS
Certified in Six Sigma Green Belt, GD&T (ASME Y14.5M fluent) and D1.1 Welding
Experienced in setting up and running multiple Quality Systems, including one simultaneously certified in 3 ASR Certifications: ISO13485, IATF16949, and ISO9001
Instituted significant process improvements by discovering better material specifications to allow ASPC to both ensure product quality as well as drastically reducing manufacturing time
Brian Hayes
Integration director
14 years of experience in the gaming industry both as vendor and as manufacturer
Previous design and construction experience including management of CAD facilities
Managed production and integration, and as Chief Technology Officer for a leading gaming machine manufacturer
Currently facilitating multiple client portfolios, assisting with design and logistics
Held multiple positions as a California union electrician and plumber, a career in maritime shipyard construction, as well as Facility Operations Manager for kitchen equipment assembly and development, and welder for Modern Stainless
Richard has a passion for company leadership and the development of highly skilled fabricators led him to create Silver State Stainless in 2005 with the goal of curating a culture, product, and ethos which matched that of his personal life
Together with the first crew of Silver State Stainless, an industry reputation for quality domestic tank craftsman in North America was established and has never wavered
Richard still plays a pivotal role in the training and mentorship of every fabricator that comes through the Silver State Stainless facility
Daris Smith
Business Development / Sales
Has worked in machining and metal fabrication industries since the age of 14 and strongly believes in the value of domestic production and the employees who make the process possible
Spent 11 years in the oil and municipal water flange business following an education at Chico State University in Communications
Led the Sales department at Silver State Stainless and incrementally honed his skills surrounding the operational aspects of the business over the past 5 years
Daris continuously drives innovation and expands horizons for the Silver State Stainless brand, exploring new industries and products while keeping true to the original values on which the company was founded
