In 1978, when plastics were still relatively new to manufacturing, Don Thomas began a journey that would take him across the United States, from the Pacific Northwest to Florida, accumulating experience and wisdom at every stop. Today, as General Manager at Quantum Storage Systems, Don oversees a team of 300 people across three shifts, managing everything from production and human resources to tooling design and capital expenditures.
"I wouldn't have come to the company if they weren't going to grow and change and become what we are today," Don reflects on his decision to join Quantum. "State of the art, growth-oriented, product-oriented."
What started with a simple product catalog has grown into an extensive line of storage solutions, with Don's team introducing hundreds of new products during his tenure. The journey hasn't been without its challenges, particularly in adapting to Florida's unique business environment.
Meeting Challenges Head-On
Manufacturing in Florida presents distinct challenges, from the heat to maximizing limited space. But for Don, the biggest adjustment was learning to work with a workforce different from what he'd experienced in the Midwest and Northwest.
"The basic issues that you deal with in manufacturing, especially in Florida... the workforce being totally different than what you're used to," Don says. "Their histories are different and how they do things. They look at things differently."
Building Success Through Balance
For Don, success in manufacturing comes down to finding the right balance - between chaos and organization, between driving forward and pulling back. It's about surrounding yourself with people who complement your strengths and compensate for your weaknesses.
Under Don's leadership, the company has grown from a small catalog business to an industry leader in storage solutions, all while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation.
Let's take a few more minutes to hear from Don Thomas, General Manager at Quantum Storage Systems.
Thanks for taking some time to speak with us, Don. Let's start with your background. How did you get into this industry?
I'm originally from the Pacific Northwest and started in plastics in 1978, way back when plastics were new. What I've seen as you move across the United States is that the work environment changes. And your creative ability must adapt to all those changes.
What drives you in your work?
I'm a fixer. Fix it. Make it happen. There's no answer other than it's fixed. That's what drives me -- the motivation to solve it, to get the answer, make it happen, then move on.
What's been key to your success in working with different teams across the country?
Open your eyes and listen at the same time. See what people are doing and why. That is probably the biggest learning lesson. Take a deep breath in -- because if you're breathing in, you're not speaking out, and then you can hear what others are saying.
As someone who manages storage solutions, how organized are you at home?
Let's just say there's always a balance. You have those who are the organizers, compilers, and that type of person. But you have to have the offset.
What do you like the most about your workplace?
The interaction, the people... When you go into the factory, our factory, every day you walk in there, something is different. It's continual evolution and change within the factory. I like that. You know, it's not boring. You're not focused on the repetition of the same old every day.
Don, it's been an honor getting to hear your story. Congrats on your amazing career, and when retirement does arrive, we all know you've certainly earned it.
