At International Drilling Equipment, we take great pride in acknowledging the dedication and hard work of our exceptional team. Our success is driven by the commitment and expertise of our employees, and we are passionate about celebrating their achievements to cultivate a culture of appreciation that motivates everyone to excel.

This month, we’re excited to spotlight Chris Caudill! As IDE’s Shop Helper, Chris has been a vital part of our team for nearly a year and a half. His steadfast commitment to supporting our team sets him apart, and we are truly grateful to have him on board.

 

What is your favorite part about working at IDE? 
I have enjoyed learning about all the machines. This is such a niche field that not many people are aware of the scale at which this field operates. I feel pride in knowing the little bit I do know and being able to talk to others about it.
What do you think makes you unique as a team member? 
I did not come from a mechanic background nor did I pursue it out of high school. This meaning I am a clean slate and feel I am able to absorb and retain the mechanical information.
What do you enjoy most about your job, and what are some of the challenges you face? 
I enjoy working with my coworkers they all come from different backgrounds and have so much knowledge and experience. To be able to work together with them on projects and learn is a privilege. One of the challenges I deal with is grasping certain concepts such as electrical and hydraulic schematics since it is my goal to become a technician.
Can you share a project or accomplishment you’re particularly proud of that you worked on during your time here? 
One project I am proud of was the IFCEE show. I was in charge of pulling and painting all the equipment pieces going to the show. I had great pride in sending out equipment looking their best for possible customers.
How do you stay motivated and engaged in your work, and what advice would you give to others who are struggling with motivation? 
It is definitely a struggle to always be motivated but the complexity of all the machines makes it where I am always learning something new and it helps to keep it fun. The only advice I would give to others is to find something that you enjoy about your job and lean into it as much as possible.
How does IDE support your professional development, and what opportunities have you taken advantage of? 
I have been fortunate IDE has given me chances to travel and train to become a technician. I have already been to Florida, South Carolina, and parts of Virginia.
How do you collaborate with your colleagues and team members, and what qualities do you think are essential for effective teamwork? 
Since I am training to be a technician, I have to work with the other technicians on projects very often. I think for effective teamwork it is necessary for great communication, patience, and planning.
How do you balance your work responsibilities with your personal life, and what strategies do you use to maintain that balance? 
When I get home, I try not to bring any negativity from the workplace allowing me to be present with those I care about. I think creating a divide between work and home life allows me to fully focus on either.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? 
I love woodworking and doing anything with my hands. I just bought a 1985 F-150 and I have really enjoyed diving into it.
What is something that you are proud of about yourself? 
I am a very hardworking person and I will continuously try something until I get it.
If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be and why? 
I think I would love to visit Iceland. I have seen online how beautiful the landscape is and I would love to see it in person one day.