James Cardwell
San Pierre
Summary
Dynamic mechanic with extensive experience at Travel Centers of America, excelling in troubleshooting and preventive maintenance. Proven ability to enhance vehicle performance and reduce downtime through strategic diagnostics. Strong coaching skills foster team development, while hands-on expertise in diesel engine repairs ensures high-quality service and customer satisfaction.
Knowledgeable [General Manenger] with solid background in automotive maintenance and repair. Skilled in diagnosing complex mechanical issues and implementing effective solutions to ensure vehicle safety and performance. Demonstrated proficiency in using diagnostic tools and performing routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, brake repairs, and engine overhauls.
Organized [leadership skills] with successful history of managing competing priorities and meeting challenging performance targets. Works well under pressure to complete physically-demanding work. Safety-oriented team player with strong attendance record.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Mechanic
Travel Centers of America
08.2025 - Current
- Inspected and tested equipment to locate worn and damaged parts.
- Replaced damaged, missing, or defective parts with new and refurbished components.
- Performed diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures to find and identify root causes of mechanical issues.
- Performed preventative maintenance oil changes and brake jobs to preserve performance and reliability of vehicles.
- Completed full vehicle inspections to check for leaks, damage, or other issues of concern.
- Disassembled defective parts to make proper repairs.
- Maintained a safe working environment at all times by adhering to company guidelines and OSHA regulations, reducing workplace accidents.
- Utilized hand tools and power tools to repair and maintain diesel engines according to industry standards.
- Performed preventive maintenance on engines, tires, and other vehicle systems.
- Troubleshot and diagnosed problems with brakes, and steering.
- Completed checklist of fluid levels, air filter, tire pressure, and more as part of service orders.
- Supported overall workshop efficiency by maintaining a clean, organized workspace and adhering to safety guidelines.
- Diagnosed and repaired diesel engines to restore functionality in heavy-duty vehicles.
- Maintained detailed records of all repairs, parts replacements, and services performed for reference during future work.
- Documented findings and actions taken.
- Troubleshot electrical system issues accurately to reduce the likelihood of recurring problems down the line.
- Inspected and adjusted brakes, steering systems and wheel bearings to address related issues.
- Installed new systems and components in vehicles.
- Contributed to a positive work environment with strong interpersonal skills, teamwork abilities, and effective communication among colleagues and supervisors alike.
31E
US Army Reserve
09.2010 - Current
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Set performance expectations for the team, monitoring progress towards goals and providing constructive feedback as needed.
- Empowered team members by delegating responsibilities according to individual strengths and areas of expertise.
- Managed conflict resolution among team members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Maintained an inclusive and diverse team culture, promoting respect and understanding among all members.
- Developed team members'' skills through targeted coaching sessions, resulting in improved individual performance.
- Mentored junior staff members, helping them develop their leadership potential and advance in their careers.
- Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.
Mechanic
Loves Travel Stop
03.2024 - 04.2025
- Kept equipment in good working order by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, and maintaining supplies.
- Performed preventive maintenance on engines, transmissions, tires, and other vehicle systems.
- Troubleshot and diagnosed problems with brakes, steering, and transmissions.
- Examined engines, and vehicle systems to diagnose issues.
- Ensured safety compliance by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of federal regulations related to diesel mechanics.
- Reduced downtime for vehicles by diagnosing and repairing complex mechanical issues in a timely manner.
- Used specialty equipment, standard tools, and gauges to complete assessments and repairs.
- Minimized costly breakdowns through proactive preventative maintenance measures on heavy equipment and vehicles.
- Enhanced engine performance by conducting regular maintenance and repairs on diesel engines.
- Improved customer satisfaction with thorough inspections, accurate diagnoses, and effective communication of repair needs.
- Installed and adjusted fuel injection systems and turbochargers to enhance vehicle performance.
- Ordered parts necessary for vehicle repairs and new installations.
- Inspected vehicle systems to assess function and uncover defects.
- Preserved fleet longevity through comprehensive overhauls of aging equipment as needed.
Mechanic
A Mobile Maintenance
10.2023 - 04.2024
- Examined engines, transmissions and vehicle systems to diagnose issues.
- Disassembled and repaired diesel engines in automobiles, trucks, buses, and construction vehicles.
- Increased fuel efficiency through the optimization of diesel engines and emissions systems.
- Guaranteed adherence to environmental standards by properly disposing of hazardous waste materials generated during repairs.
- Tested and adjusted engines to foster proper performance.
- Expanded professional capabilities with ongoing education, certification programs, and industry seminars relevant to diesel mechanics.
- Collaborated with team members to complete large-scale projects on time and under budget.
- Provided exceptional customer service during consultations, addressing client concerns and ensuring their satisfaction throughout the repair process.
- Boosted workshop productivity by training new hires in best practices for diesel mechanic procedures and techniques.
- Streamlined workflow processes by implementing efficient organization within the repair shop.
- Optimized engine performance through meticulous calibration, leading to better vehicle output.
- Provided exceptional customer service, explaining complex mechanical issues in understandable terms.
- Achieved high rate of first-time fixes, minimizing need for return visits.
- Enhanced vehicle reliability by performing regular maintenance and safety checks.
- Upgraded exhaust systems, meeting and exceeding environmental compliance requirements.
- Enhanced workshop safety by enforcing strict adherence to health and safety protocols.
- Spearheaded initiative to recycle used motor oil, demonstrating commitment to environmental sustainability.
- Conducted thorough inspections and repairs on brake systems, ensuring safety for all vehicle operators.
- Improved customer satisfaction by quickly addressing and resolving mechanical issues.
- Coordinated with suppliers to secure high-quality parts at competitive prices, improving overall repair quality.
- Streamlined parts inventory management to prevent overstock and shortages, facilitating smoother workshop operations.
- Reduced repair turnaround time by developing system for prioritizing urgent jobs.
- Boosted workshop productivity, implementing efficient scheduling system for repairs.
- Implemented preventative maintenance program, significantly reducing incidence of unexpected breakdowns.
- Diagnosed complex engine problems, significantly reducing downtime for fleet vehicles.
- Customized heavy-duty vehicles for specific operational requirements, increasing their functionality.
Mechanic
Jeffs Toeing and Recovery
01.2013 - 11.2023
- Trained new mechanics in diagnostic techniques, enhancing skill level of team.
- Led team in overhauling engines, restoring them to peak performance.
- Increased fuel efficiency with precise engine tuning and adjustments.
- Conducted electrical repairs and installations, ensuring vehicles' electrical systems operated efficiently.
- Diagnosed mechanical problems for repair or replacement.
- Handled repairs, replacing broken components and inspecting engines for wear and tear.
- Performed preventive maintenance on diesel engines, preventing malfunctions.
- Serviced and maintained engines by performing regular oil and filter changes.
- Used specialized tools and equipment to diagnose and repair issues with diesel engines.
- Assessed equipment for damage, wear, battery life, and fluid levels.
- Conducted full operational compliance inspections before releasing vehicles for use.
- Replaced and repaired fuel injection systems for diesel engines in buses and trucks.
- Collaborated with other mechanics to inspect diesel engines for signs of damage.
- Analyzed engine faults in buses and trucks, identifying potential causes and determining needed repairs.
- Executed tune-ups on diesel engines by adjusting valves and setting engine timing.
- Changed faulty or damaged fuel injectors, air filters and spark plugs in diesel engines.
- Adhered to safety regulations while servicing vehicles, preventing injuries and accidents.
- Followed factory and dealership standards to accurately perform repairs according to work order.
- Operated transport vehicles and auxiliary equipment to move materials safely to and from target areas.
- Checked completed repairs in buses and trucks, confirming correct servicing procedures.
- Managed parts inventory and tracked status of recent orders to maintain tool and equipment stock.
- Ordered new parts for broken belts, hoses and filters, resupplying inventory.
- Organized test drives in buses and trucks to identify needed repairs.
- Utilized hand tools and power tools to repair and maintain diesel engines according to industry standards.
- Determined cost-effective solutions to mechanical issues, saving company money.
- Completed checklist of fluid levels, air filter, tire pressure, and more as part of service orders.
- Supported overall workshop efficiency by maintaining a clean, organized workspace and adhering to safety guidelines.
- Diagnosed and repaired diesel engines to restore functionality in heavy-duty vehicles.
- Maintained detailed records of all repairs, parts replacements, and services performed for reference during future work.
Education
Cummings Certified -
Cummings
Duluth, MN11-2023
GED -
Adult Ed
Manchester, TN08-2009
Skills
- Troubleshooting skills
- Maintenance and repairs
- Hand and power tools
- Troubleshooting
- Preventive Maintenance
- Brake systems
- Mechanical systems
- Tire services
- Diagnostics
- Welding and fabrication
- Performance improvement
- Influencing others
- Coaching and mentoring
- Strategic thinking
Languages
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Mechanic
Travel Centers of America
08.2025 - Current
Mechanic
Loves Travel Stop
03.2024 - 04.2025
Mechanic
A Mobile Maintenance
10.2023 - 04.2024
Mechanic
Jeffs Toeing and Recovery
01.2013 - 11.2023
31E
US Army Reserve
09.2010 - Current
Cummings Certified -
Cummings
GED -
Adult Ed
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