Behind the scenes with Pasqualino Balenzano: Elevating maintenance excellence at AVOCarbon Germany

In the world of maintenance, there are those who follow the conventional path, and then there are those who redefine the rules. Join us on a journey behind the scenes as we unravel the remarkable story of Pasqualino Balenzano, the visionary Manager of Maintenance at AVOCarbon Germany.

Now, let's dive right in and discover the insights, experiences and expertise that have crafted his journey.

Can you please tell us a bit about yourself, your background, and how you came to work with AVOCarbon in your role as Manager of Maintenance at AVOCarbon Germany?

I have been with the company since October 2010. Initially, I aspired to take an exam to become an electrician in a small company, but unfortunately, it didn't work out. I learned about AVOCarbon through my father, Giovanni Balenzano, who is the head of the mixing department. My journey at AVOCarbon began with an exam to become an industrial mechanic. In January 2014, after successfully passing my exams, I worked in tool making for presses until June 2018. Due to internal restructuring, I decided to return to my role as a mechanic within the company. I was in my mid-20s at the time and made the decision to return to school to complete my industrial master's degree in metalwork. In August 2020, I assumed the role of maintenance management, which I continue to hold to this day. Our performance is akin to that of a fire department; days cannot be perfectly planned because circumstances can change at any time. This requires a great deal of flexibility and a delicate balance. I find this aspect very thrilling, and It always gives me personal energy. I'm grateful to my team for our excellent performance.

AVOCarbon is known for its global presence. Could you share some key aspects of AVOCarbon's mission and what sets it apart in the industry?

AVOCarbon is a company of great intrigue. I believe that the products we manufacture for the global market are often undervalued. Naturally, one might wonder what I mean by this. Creating such products truly demands a significant amount of expertise. It's akin to the craft of a skilled bread baker, requiring a wealth of knowledge and skill.

As the Manager of Maintenance, you play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability of our manufacturing processes. what are your primary responsibilities and how do they contribute to AVOCarbon's success?

As a football fan, I see the role of maintenance manager from the perspective of a coach. It is important to recognize what strengths and weaknesses each individual in the team has. It's then up to me to overcome the weaknesses and make the best use of the strengths. The manager is only as good as his team.

Can you describe some of the challenges you've encountered in your role and how you've overcome them to ensure smooth operations within AVOCarbon Germany?

People often set challenges or limitations for themselves. However, the most significant challenge lies in looking beyond these self-imposed boundaries and pushing one's limits. Our location in Frankfurt has been operational for several years. An exemplary challenge arises when spare parts are no longer available on the market. It's truly admirable to witness the creativity of our employees who can craft replacement parts from scratch or even adapt control systems to function with cabinets twice as old as my longest-serving employee.

In a dynamic multinational company like AVOCarbon, collaboration is crucial. How do you foster teamwork and effective communication within your department and with other global offices?

For me, communication plays a vital role, whether it's individual conversations, team discussions, or feedback exchanges. It's always best to keep it short, so the effectiveness is high.

The automotive industry has been evolving rapidly. How does AVOCarbon adapt to industry trends and technological advancements to stay ahead of the curve?

AVOCarbon stays ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving automotive industry through the implementation of new technologies. This modernization includes the installation of efficient electric cylinders and electric spindles with the highest accuracy. Additionally, AVOCarbon focuses on automating processes through the use of rails and conveyor systems.

Could you highlight any recent innovations or projects at AVOCarbon that you find particularly exciting or promising for the future?

One of the most exciting projects we've undertaken is related to the black mixing process. In this project, we introduced a state-of-the-art control system to a rotary press, achieving a rapid and successful implementation. What truly makes this project promising is our team's collaborative efforts in automating the entire process. This automation encompasses the transportation of raw mixtures, the pressing, grinding, milling, and sieving processes, all seamlessly managed through conveyor systems. Notably, we've created a closed-loop system where the fine raw mixture is efficiently recycled back to the rotary press. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and ingenuity of our team.

What advice would you give to someone aspiring to a managerial role in a multinational company like AVOCarbon?

To excel in a managerial role I advise you to:

1.?????? Cultivate passion, teamwork, and empathy by engaging in team sports.

2.?????? Embrace responsibility and challenge self-imposed limits. Failure is a steppingstone, not a setback.

3.?????? Acquire specialized skills and stay open to learning. You can't know everything, but you can find the information you need.

4.?????? Remember, the only boundaries that exist are the ones you create. Break through them with determination.

How has your experience at AVOCarbon contributed to your professional growth and development?

My experience at AVOCarbon has significantly contributed to my professional growth and development. The key to this growth is fostering a sense of curiosity and self-inquiry. It involves continually asking questions about the machines and processes around you. How are they powered? What factors can make them more efficient or adaptable? How can my tools produce certain shapes?

As I've sought answers to these questions through self-directed learning, my interests and expertise have naturally expanded. Over time, this process of self-questioning has transformed me into a specialist in my field.

As a final question, let's have a bit of fun. If you could have dinner with any historical figure, living or deceased, who would it be, and why?

I would choose to have dinner with Martin Luther King, a person known for his iconic line: 'I have a dream.' He is a true role model and a captivating figure, advocating for both civil and economic rights, and the eradication of racism in his famous 'I Have a Dream' speech. His eloquent manner of speaking, characterized by well-timed pauses and variations in tone, is an art in itself, making him an incredibly inspiring individual.

Regards

Pasqualino Balenzano