Nick Nattermann, Plant Manager, for GD Energy Products, is a graduate of the Energy Workforce Executive Leadership Program. He recently shared his insights on the energy services and technology sector.
Energy Workforce: What is your role with the company? What are your core responsibilities? What does a typical day look like?
NN: I am the plant manager of our manufacturing facility that produces fluid ends for Frac Pumping. My main responsibilities are making sure we are producing the right product for our customers while ensuring all aspects of our operations and supply chain are being managed properly. My typical day involves reviewing how we are performing operationally, making sure we have the right material to meet our goals, and meeting with my team to make sure they have the support and tools they need to be successful with the projects they are working on.
EW: Why did you join the energy industry? Was there an individual who influenced your decision? Was there an event or piece of technology that got you excited?
NN: I initially had no plans to join the energy industry. A recruiter reached out to me for an opportunity and after meeting and interviewing with members of the leadership team and getting an opportunity see the facility, I became excited to join an organization that not only has a great positive work culture, but also strives for excellence in growth, service, and teamwork.
EW: What individual has been most instrumental in helping with your career? What did their mentorship look like and how did it guide your path?
NN: I have been blessed with many great mentors and managers who have coached me throughout my career. All of them took the time to get to know me personally and were open and honest with me regarding my strengths and weaknesses. Another benefit I received from them was the opportunity to observe their management styles which were all based around servant leadership, relationships, trust, support, and communication.
EW: What has surprised you most about the industry?
NN: All the people I have interacted with are very supportive and encouraging and everyone is striving for success not only for themselves but for their teams. It is great working and interacting with so many highly motivated individuals.
EW: Where do you hope to see the industry develop over the next five years?
NN: I am excited with the growth and innovation currently on-going, and I am curious as to how AI might start to be utilized in the industry to improve safety and productivity.
EW: What role do you believe you will play in the industry’s future?
NN: I hope to continue to be a leader in my organization and strengthen my ability to coach and mentor so I can support up-and-coming individuals in my company and in the energy industry to help them grow both personally and professionally.
EW: How has your involvement in Energy Workforce supported your career goals?
NN: Energy Workforce has helped me develop my leadership style, build relationships in the industry, and given me tools to use to strengthen my team and provide a playbook for sustained growth and success.
EW: Who are one or two individuals you’ve met while working in the industry who have impacted your thinking?
NN: I have been positively impacted by so many people since joining the industry both inside my company and outside. To narrow it down I will highlight two individuals outside my company:
- Jim Donahue, a consultant I worked with early on, inspired me with his ability to build strong relationships and empower teams to successfully collaborate and align goals to meet corporate objectives.
- Dustin Anderson, my mentor through EWTC, helped me evolve my leadership and communication style to effectively guide my team and improve my ability to help them grow professionally through coaching/mentoring.
EW: What advice would you give someone just getting started in the energy industry?
NN: Join with a humble mentality and an open mind. As with any industry and new company there is always a ton to learn and take in. Build relationships, ask questions, listen, and develop a plan that aligns with your company’s goals.
EW: What do you do for fun or what’s your idea of a perfect vacation?
NN: I currently have 3 young children (5 years, 3 years, and 6 months) so my fun involves spending time with my wife and children.
EW: What’s a fun fact people would never guess about you?
NN: I’ve climbed Mt. Elbert in Colorado and completed a half ironman triathlon.
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