John Straka

South Chesterfield,VA

Summary

Dependable and hardworking professional with honorable service in the U.S. Army and extensive experience in manufacturing, industrial maintenance, and fire protection system installation. Skilled in operating and maintaining production equipment, performing facility maintenance, operating heavy equipment, and working safely in industrial environments. Strong mechanical ability with solid knowledge of workplace safety procedures and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Work History

Maintenance Technician / Machine Operator

Wood Fuel Developers

Waverly

Performed plant maintenance including basic electrical, plumbing, and mechanical repairs to support daily operations. Operated and maintained multiple machines throughout the facility. Operated forklifts and front-end loaders to move and load 1-ton palletized product onto flatbed and trailer trucks. Maintained inventory of maintenance parts, tools, and supplies.
Collaborated with team members to streamline workflows and improve operational efficiency.
Assisted in implementing preventive maintenance schedules to enhance equipment reliability.
Diagnosed mechanical issues using diagnostic tools to identify root causes effectively.
Conducted routine maintenance on equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.

Machine Operator

International Paper

Richmond Virginia

Operated and maintained production machines manufacturing paper bags for major companies including McDonald's and Burger King. Monitored equipment performance, performed routine maintenance, and ensured safe and efficient plant operations.

Fire Sprinkler System Installer

Fire Protection Industry

Richmond

Installed commercial fire sprinkler systems from the ground up including wet, dry, and pre-action systems. Installed piping, valves, and sprinkler heads and assisted with testing and inspections.

Education

AIT School Graduation - Wire Communications

Wireman AIT

Fort Gordon Ga

01-1984

High School Diploma -

West Branch High School

Morrisdale, Pennsylvania

05.1983

High School - undefined

Clearfield High School

Clearfield, Pennsylvania

Skills

Industrial machine operation and troubleshooting
Preventative maintenance and equipment repair
Fire sprinkler installation (wet, dry, and pre-action systems)
Forklift, scissor lift, floor jack, and front-end loader operation
Basic electrical, plumbing, and mechanical repair

Basic welding
Hand and electrical tool operation
Inventory management for maintenance parts and tools
Workplace safety and PPE compliance
Basic computer skills

Timeline