Bob Waddell – Machine Builder
Bob has been a integral part of C&B for over 17 years. We are grateful to have him on our team and figured it was time to shine the spotlight on him.
What is the story behind how you came to work at C&B Machinery?
I began my work as a machine builder in 1979. I worked for about 4 companies and was very loyal to each one. I found myself looking for a new job when the owner either decided to retire or passed away.
About 17 years ago, I had finished up at a job and was looking for another one. I had worked in the building that C&B was occupying in Livonia and saw the sign that said they were machine builders. I stopped in, knocked on the door, told them about my experience and was hired.
Since coming to C&B, what has been your favorite project?
I don’t have a favorite project that stands out to me.
As a machine builder, the newest project is always the most challenging. I do prefer to build a brand-new machine over a rebuild, mainly because a rebuild has many challenges, is dirtier work and there tend to be more complications. You can pretty much guarantee there will be bolts that won’t come out and other areas that no longer function.
What about robots? How do you like incorporating them into your machines?
I have been working with robots for over 30 years. This is not new technology to machine builders. Successful automation requires collaboration with the programmers and controls engineers and you work together with each other’s strengths.
Hot Sauce Meter – Mild, Medium, Hot, Fire
Open the bottle, but don’t pour it on.
As mild as you can get.
How did you get involved in the grinding industry?
When I came to C&B, I did not have any experience building grinding machines. I had general, industrial machine building experience. I had to learn from others and used my aptitude for machine building to figure things out. It wasn’t that different.
I did have a lot of alignment experience prior to C&B and that has been valuable in my role here.
Town you call home:
Born and raised in Ohio. Moved to Michigan around 19 years old and lived in Plymouth for 10 years. That is the place that felt most like home, though I have not lived there in 30 years. We rented a house near Kellogg Park and enjoyed the events and activities in the area.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about manufacturing as a career?
To become a machine builder, experience is not a requirement. If you try to become a machine builder, you will know pretty quickly if you have an aptitude for it or not. I found that I did, but have seen thousands of people try it and many do not.
The main requirements are good work ethic and a willingness to learn. You have to be able to work with others and be trained. Be open to learning and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Manufacturing can provide a good career, if the work fits your personality. Working for a smaller company, like C&B, there is nowhere to hide. Everyone pulls their weight and does their job well. There is a lot of teamwork.
Blue & Gold (U of M) or Green & White (MSU)?
Maize and Blue. My wife did graduate from MSU, but she seems to cheer for the blue and gold, too.
What roles have you held at C&B? What does your current role entail?
I have only held the title of Machine Builder. There are many pieces to this role. I go out on service calls as a Service Technician because I am an expert on machines and how they are built. I am able to troubleshoot the issues pretty easily.
I also work with new employees and office staff to teach and train regarding how the machines are built and how they work. I enjoy this aspect of my job, as well.