Howell Owens
Effingham
Summary
Results-driven leader in the wood preservation industry, specializing in operational excellence and compliance. Proven track record of improving throughput and quality while maintaining stringent safety standards, enhancing overall plant performance through effective resource allocation and strategic initiatives.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Plant Manager
Koppers Inc.
Pittsburg
04.2025 - Current
- Oversaw daily operations, improving plant performance in safety, quality, and production.
- Monitored performance metrics to track throughput, quality, cost, and safety standards.
- Ensured compliance with laws and regulations, safeguarding operational integrity.
Operations Manager
Koppers Inc.
Overland Park
05.2021 - 04.2025
- Oversaw daily operations across multiple locations to ensure seamless workflow.
- Analyzed operational processes to identify areas for efficiency improvement.
- Led safety compliance initiatives to maintain workplace standards and regulations.
Plant Manager
Koppers Inc.
Florence
04.2017 - 05.2021
- Monitored plant performance metrics to identify trends and drive improvements in throughput, quality, cost, and safety.
- Oversaw daily operations, enhancing plant performance through effective resource allocation.
- Ensured compliance with applicable laws and regulations, mitigating risks and maintaining operational integrity.
Plant Manager
Koppers Inc.
Guthrie
06.2012 - 04.2017
- Oversaw daily operations to ensure efficient plant performance.
- Monitored plant performance metrics, such as throughput, quality, cost, and safety.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Assistant Plant Manager
Koppers Inc.
Guthrie
04.2008 - 06.2012
- Coordinated production schedules to enhance workflow efficiency and effective resource allocation.
- Monitored production activities for compliance with safety regulations, reducing risk to personnel and operations.
- Scheduled preventive maintenance activities in order to minimize unexpected downtime.
Supervisor
Koppers, Inc.
Florence
01.2005 - 04.2008
- Supervised daily operations to maintain safety protocol compliance.
- Monitored inventory levels and managed supply chain logistics to ensure timely availability of materials.
QC Coordinator
Koppers Inc.
Florence
02.2003 - 12.2004
- Maintained compliance with industry regulations and company quality standards for both Utility Poles and Crossties.
- Conducted routine quality tests on raw materials and finished products.
Forest Technician
Sabine and Waters, Inc.
Summerville
10.2002 - 01.2003
- Developed and implemented forest management plans to ensure sustainable resource use and conservation.
- Advised landowners on sustainable forestry practices, aligning economic and ecological goals to enhance land stewardship.
Education
Associates Degree - Agriculture Technology, Forest Management Technology
Horry Georgetown Technical College
Conway, SC01-2000
High School Diploma -
Williamsburg Academy
Kingstree, SC01-1998
Skills
- Production optimization and scheduling
- Health and safety compliance
- Quality assurance and regulatory compliance
- Strategic planning and improvement
- Problem solving
- Cost control
- Performance monitoring and facility management
- Waste reduction
Training
- TAPPISAFE Training for Westrock and Graphics Packaging
- CSX Roadway Worker Protection Training
- ISNetWorld Safety Training for Railroad Contractors
- Koppers Leadership Forum
- OSHA Training
- Hazardous Materials Awareness
- Confined Space Entry
- Koppers Management Training
- Koppers Wastewater Treatment Operations
- Koppers Leadership Training
- Koppers SH&E Audit Training
- AREMA Tie Grading School
Honors And Awards
- Koppers CEO Award, 2015
- Koppers President Award, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Activities
Howe Springs Fire Rescue
Certification
- University of Wisconsin Operations Management Certification
- South Carolina Commercial Pesticide Applicator License
Timeline
Plant Manager
Koppers Inc.
04.2025 - Current
Operations Manager
Koppers Inc.
05.2021 - 04.2025
Plant Manager
Koppers Inc.
04.2017 - 05.2021
Plant Manager
Koppers Inc.
06.2012 - 04.2017
Assistant Plant Manager
Koppers Inc.
04.2008 - 06.2012
Supervisor
Koppers, Inc.
01.2005 - 04.2008
QC Coordinator
Koppers Inc.
02.2003 - 12.2004
Forest Technician
Sabine and Waters, Inc.
10.2002 - 01.2003
Associates Degree - Agriculture Technology, Forest Management Technology
Horry Georgetown Technical College
High School Diploma -
Williamsburg Academy