Getting a late-night work call about a maintenance emergency isn’t something most people look forward to, but most people aren’t Stephen Thompson. Thompson, 56, loves knowing he can help when customers need it most. While he doesn’t enjoy missing family time due to overnight or weekend service calls, Thompson explained, “You get the challenge of fixing something that is broken, and you get to see the joy the customer has when they’re back up and running.”
Thompson currently works as a senior reliability technician at Cornerstone Mechanical Services in Forney, Texas, and he’s no stranger to training. His resume includes certifications such as ISO Category 1 vibration analyst and National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER)-certified millwright, as well as specialized training for engineered overhung pump repair, bearing maintenance and service, root cause bearing damage and mechanical seal fundamentals. Thompson says the training he appreciated the most was the knowledge passed down from industry vets early on in his career: “They taught me how things are put together, how pumps and systems operate, and ultimately, how to be a better troubleshooter.” He hopes young people in the industry follow that same path of recognizing the value of learning from experienced industry professionals, and he’s happy to be one of those mentors. Thompson said, “We have a lot of experience with different units, how they operate, and most importantly, how to keep them running.”
Thompson also learned the importance of providing service beyond the equipment from Terry Wilson, the co-founder of Cornerstone Mechanical Services, and it’s advice he shares with all his team members. His favorite lesson from Wilson is “Be on time. Do the right thing. And if you’re not sure about something, it’s better to ask questions than lie.”
When asked what the industry has meant to him, Thompson said he’s appreciated getting to learn from multiple industries and applications. “This industry is a blessing when you love to see how things come together. I have been able to see how many things are made, from start to finish. How many other people can say they know how jet fighters and chocolate bunnies are made?!”
Outside of the industry, what do you enjoy doing?
I spend time with my wife, driving around old country roads with the top and doors off our Jeep, looking for great barbecue joints off the beaten path. I also enjoy playing golf and cooking seafood, Cajun cuisine and, of course, barbecue!
How have things changed over the course of your career, in terms of technology and/or regulations?
Technology has made performing maintenance and reliability services more efficient. From something as simple as new wrenches and tools to precision lasers, it has really changed how people like me service pumps and other equipment. We work safer and faster because of technology.
