Walter Sheppard

Maintenance and operations leader with more than 15 years of experience managing multi-site facilities, maintenance teams, capital projects, vendor relationships, and preventative maintenance programs. Proven ability to improve operational efficiency, control budgets, develop high-performing teams, and oversee large property portfolios. Experienced in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, construction, project management, and emergency response.

Recognized for strong leadership, problem-solving, and a hands-on management style.

Director of Maintenance - Dominion - Knoxville, TN

(2022-08)

• Direct maintenance operations for a portfolio of approximately 3,000 apartment units across 16 communities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop maintenance supervisors and technicians across multiple territories.
• Manage preventative maintenance programs to improve equipment reliability and reduce emergency repairs.
• Coordinate emergency maintenance services for three regional territories, including after-hours response.
• Oversee vendor relationships, negotiate pricing, and manage service contracts to control operating costs.
• Approve inventory purchases and maintain material budgets.
• Coordinate annual apartment turn schedules, painting teams, and renovation projects.
• Ensure maintenance teams consistently meet budget and performance goals.
• Manage corporate office maintenance and housekeeping operations.

Maintenance Technician / Supervisor - Dominion Management Group - Knoxville, TN

(2018-05 - 2022-08)

• Diagnosed and repaired HVAC systems while maintaining EPA compliance.
• Installed and serviced residential HVAC equipment.
• Performed electrical, plumbing, appliance, drywall, framing, and general construction repairs.
• Completed apartment renovations and unit turns while maintaining occupancy schedules.
• Assisted in supervising maintenance personnel and daily operations.

Construction Project Coordinator - Blue Ridge Concepts - Asheville, NC

(2017-11 - 2018-04)

• Assisted with residential construction projects from foundation through final completion.
• Coordinated subcontractor scheduling and workflow.
• Supported project management to maintain quality standards and production timelines.

Operations Manager - DPM Enterprises - Knoxville, TN

(2013-02 - 2017-05)

• Managed daily operations for commercial floor maintenance crews.
• Recruited, trained, and supervised more than 20 employees.
• Improved production efficiency through scheduling optimization and workflow management.
• Managed customer accounts, invoicing, scheduling, and project tracking using Service Auto Pilot (SAP).
• Performed preventative maintenance on commercial cleaning equipment and company vehicles.

Project Manager - Southland Remodelers - Knoxville, TN

(2011-08 - 2013-01)

• Managed residential remodeling projects from sales through completion.
• Prepared estimates, contracts, and customer invoices.
• Coordinated jobsite materials, equipment, and subcontractors.
• Ensured OSHA compliance and maintained project quality standards.
• Conducted final inspections and customer walkthroughs.

Head Technician - Retro Foam of East Tennessee - Knoxville, TN

(2009-05 - 2010-12)

• Supervised insulation crews on residential projects.
• Maintained customer communication throughout project completion.
• Installed polyurethane foam insulation in attics and crawl spaces while ensuring safety and quality standards.

Bachelor of Science - Education - University of Tennessee