Michael Laing

Production Manager with 9 years of experience leading operations within fabrication and manufacturing environments. Experienced in production planning, project coordination, inventory management, quality assurance, health and safety, and continuous improvement. Strong background working with production teams, subcontractors, engineers, sales teams, and customers to deliver projects on time and to a high standard.

Recognized for building positive working relationships, solving operational challenges, and maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Production Manager at BigSteelBox (2021-11 – 2026-05)

• Managed day-to-day production operations for custom shipping container modification projects, ensuring work was completed safely, efficiently, and to customer specifications.
• Developed production schedules, coordinated workflow, and ensured materials, equipment, and labour resources were available to meet production requirements.
• Managed production employees and subcontractors including electricians, welders, carpenters, painters, and other trades involved in modification projects.
• Worked closely with sales teams to review customer requirements, prepare project estimates, provide technical input, and support custom modification requests.
• Collaborated with engineers on complex projects to ensure designs could be completed safely, efficiently, and within project requirements.
• Oversaw inventory management, purchasing, and material planning to maintain production flow and minimize delays.
• Conducted employee training, performance reviews, coaching, and disciplinary discussions while promoting accountability and professional development.
• Maintained a strong focus on workplace safety through inspections, meetings, training, and participation on the Joint Health and Safety Committee.
• Performed quality assurance reviews of completed projects before customer delivery.
• Assisted with budgeting, forecasting, vendor sourcing, and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Coordinated repairs, maintenance activities, and facility requirements to support uninterrupted operations.
• Implemented operational changes and new company procedures following the acquisition of The Moving Box by BigSteelBox.

Production Manager at The Moving Box (2017-05 – 2021-11)

• Managed daily production activities within a busy fabrication environment focused on custom shipping container modifications.
• Coordinated production schedules, employee assignments, and material requirements to meet project deadlines.
• Maintained inventory levels and managed ordering of materials and supplies required for ongoing production.
• Supported fabrication activities including welding, painting, carpentry, and general production work when required.
• Trained new employees on equipment operation, production procedures, and workplace safety requirements.
• Worked directly with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to ensure projects progressed efficiently.
• Monitored quality standards and production performance while identifying opportunities for process improvement.
• Maintained production records and provided operational updates to company leadership.

Shop Assistant at Mi-Car Crafters (2015-04 – 2017-05)

• Assisted technicians with vehicle inspections, maintenance, repairs, and general shop operations.
• Managed inventory and ordering of parts, tools, and shop supplies.
• Conducted product and parts research to support repair and maintenance activities.
• Assisted with customer service and day-to-day operational requirements of the shop.

International Business Diploma – Niagara College (2014)