#Aluminium People: Joseph Sibichen, Tooling Technician i2r North America
In the heart of innovation and precision at i2r North America, we meet Joseph Sibichen, a Tooling Technician with an innate passion for building and maintaining production tools. With over three decades of experience in different industries and countries, Joseph has brought his expertise and dedication to the company, becoming the first person to hold this position.
In this interview, he tells us about his career path, the challenges and satisfaction of his job, the importance of continuous improvement and his commitment to creating an environment of growth for himself and his colleagues. We also discover his more personal side, between volunteering, sporting challenges and a great passion for classic cinema.
To begin with, tell us a little about yourself. What is your current role within the company?
My name is Joseph Sibichen, and I am from Brampton, Ontario, Canada. I am happily married and celebrated my 25th wedding anniversary last year. My family works in the healthcare field; my son is a nurse, and my daughter is currently studying nursing as well.
I joined i2r in October 2023 as a Tooling Technician, and I was honored to be the first person to be hired for this position. In my role, I am responsible for maintaining and optimizing the tools and equipment used in our manufacturing processes. My experience and dedication ensure that our tools are always in top condition, contributing to the overall efficiency and quality of our operations.
What do you like most about your job, and what motivates you?
Tool and die making is my passion. I have had the privilege of working in this field since 1987, gaining extensive experience across three different countries and various industries as a Tool Maker. Before accepting my current position at i2r North America, I spent 23 years in the automotive industry.
What I love most about my job is the opportunity to create precise and high-quality tools essential to manufacturing processes. The intricate work, problem-solving, and attention to detail required in this field keep me engaged and motivated every day. Additionally, I find great satisfaction in seeing the tangible results of my work and knowing that my efforts contribute to the overall success of the company.
I am always eager to embrace new challenges. The dynamic nature of this field means there is always something new to learn and master. Taking on these challenges not only helps me grow professionally but also keeps my passion for tool and die making alive.
During your career in our Group, what has been the most significant experience for you?
This role marked my first experience with a company from its start-up phase, and it has been truly remarkable to witness and be a part of its significant growth. When comparing where we were in 2023 to where we are now, the progress we have made is astonishing. Being involved from the ground up has given me a unique perspective on our journey and the dedication it took to get here.
One of the most significant experiences for me has been the freedom to implement improvements and innovate. The support and encouragement I have received from the management team have been invaluable. This environment of trust and collaboration has allowed me to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the company’s success. The sense of accomplishment I feel when looking at our achievements is unmatched, and it motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence.
What are your expectations at I2R North America?
At i2r North America, my primary expectation is to fully utilize my decades of experience in tool and die making to contribute positively to the company. I am eager to share my knowledge and expertise with my colleagues, fostering an environment where everyone can learn and grow together.
I aim to help make I2R North America a better place to work by promoting continuous improvement and encouraging innovation. By doing so, I hope to create a workplace where team members feel supported and motivated to excel in their careers. My goal is to contribute to the growth and success of the company while also helping others develop their skills and advance in their own careers.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Punctuality, safety, and continuous improvement.
What do you love to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I have a passion for charity work. In December 2024, with the incredible support of i2r North America, I was able to coordinate a food drive to support our local food bank. We successfully raised over 900 lbs of nonperishable foods, which was an immensely rewarding experience.
I also enjoy brisk walking. When I turned 50, I challenged myself to a 50 km walk, which was both a physical and mental accomplishment that I am very proud of. Walking helps me stay active and provides a great opportunity to clear my mind and enjoy the outdoors.
What is your favorite book/movie/series and why?
My favorite movie is Ben-Hur (1959).
The movie is fascinating due to its epic storyline of betrayal, revenge, and redemption set in ancient Rome. The iconic chariot race showcases groundbreaking filmmaking techniques and thrilling action. Its deep character development allows audiences to connect emotionally with Judah Ben-Hur’s journey from vengeance to grace. Additionally, the film’s exploration of themes like faith and forgiveness resonates on both personal and universal levels, contributing to its status as a classic.
If you were to go back to the beginning of your career, what advice would you give to your younger self?
Utilize all the opportunities that come up in your career. This includes learning various relevant skills and making every day a new opportunity to learn something new.
Is there anything you would like to add to help us better understand you?
I would like to highlight that I received a perfect attendance award for 10 consecutive years from my previous employer. This demonstrates my commitment, reliability, and dedication to my work.
Additionally, I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and experience with my team members. I believe that by collaborating and supporting each other, we can make i2r North America an even better place to work. I am eager to contribute to a positive and innovative workplace culture where everyone can thrive and grow together.
Discover more about the #AluminiumPeople column that includes this interview!