Dave Mago, an asset engineering coach at ArcelorMittal Dofasco’s hot rolling mill is a mechanical and manufacturing engineer with over two decades of experience. Together with his team, Dave implements crucial upgrades that prevent failure in equipment and machinery, whilst improving productivity, revenue and generating a safer shop floor.

 

Dave, what does an asset engineering coach do?

As an asset coach, my primary focus is on project management and asset reliability. I monitor production reports and meet with each asset area to review the performance, quality and reliability of their assets or equipment., Together with my team, I work with electrical and maintenance teams, to collect and review data and designs and perform calculations and root cause analysesto identify and investigate systemic and chronic technical issues within the mill to prevent failures and reduce downtime.

 

Tell us about a project that you’re currently working on.

I am currently providing technical support for projects focused on reliability improvements, including working closely with a project team whose responsibility it is to upgrade the control systems in the finishing mill.

As part of a multi-year modernization project, we recently completed an upgrade to the coiler area of the hot mill, working in collaboration with electrical, automation, and software teams to validate equipment performance and process through system evaluation. We monitor the results and upgrades and make them permanent if successful or recommend adjustments if not.

This project has allowed me to work alongside a team of different internal stakeholders and external consultants to deliver design failure modes and effects analyses (FMEA), as well as assessing project bids, integrated manufacturing processes, and equipment maintenance programs.

 

If you had to zero down on one thing that you really love about your job, what would that be?
I find the reliability engineering aspects of my job particularly rewarding. This incorporates first-hand experience and learning about the equipment being used, how it operates and deteriorates, and how to protect its longevity. Solving chronic problems that have persisted for years is especially satisfying.

Upgrading control systems is crucial because they have a limited lifespan and are challenging to reproduce. It is complex due to their integration with various mechanical components. Successfully implementing such projects with minimal issues is highly rewarding, as it requires meticulous planning, design, and commissioning.

Subsequently, the opportunity to work with the wider ArcelorMittal network to develop innovative solutions and technology that allows us to upgrade equipment and overcome different challenges the business faces.

 

And what do you love the most about the ArcelorMittal ecosystem?

One of my favorite aspects of working with ArcelorMittal is the corporate culture. There's a strong drive to improve and innovate, always pushing boundaries to enhance performance and efficiency. We set targets, develop improvement plans, and constantly seek ways to boost reliability and performance.

ArcelorMittal encourages us to investigate new ideas and evaluate their business case. As such, each day presents a new set of challenges and opportunities, ensuring that no two days are the same. If you want to become an expert or tackle specific issues, there's always room to dedicate time and effort to achieve something significant and take pride in your work. This dynamic and rewarding culture is one of my favorite things about working here.

 

Why should a young engineer opt for a career at ArcelorMittal?

Young engineers might either want diverse experiences or long-term stability in their career. Regardless of the role, ArcelorMittal offers both - a unique mix of stable employment with diverse sites and business units around the world. Each area of the business from primary to finishing, hot rolling to coating, offer unique processes that make it feel like working for different companies, whilst helping those starting out to establish and develop their careers and knowledge through access to industry leading learning, development and career progression.

 

What’s your advice to someone starting out in the steel industry?

Entering the industrial and engineering industry can be overwhelming. It is crucial to immerse yourself in learning, ask numerous questions, and engage with colleagues. Focus on understanding the "why" behind everything and absorb as much information as possible. Don't hesitate to ask questions or propose ideas. Maintain your curiosity, continue learning, and challenge assumptions. This mindset and eagerness to learn are essential for success.