When it comes to keeping things running smoothly at Woodruff Engineering, Alberto Castro is the guy you want in your corner. As our Production Manager at the Santa Fe location, he’s not just a pro at overseeing complex projects, he’s also a dedicated volunteer and an all-around great guy to work with. We caught up with Alberto to learn more about his role, his most memorable projects, and a fun fact you might not expect… let’s just say you might spot him cruising around on an electric unicycle!
What is your current position and how long have you been with Woodruff Engineering?
I’m the Production Manager here at Woodruff Engineering, and I’ve been part of the team for a year now. It’s been an exciting journey, and I’ve loved being part of such a dynamic and skilled group of people.
What were your first impressions of Woodruff Engineering, and do you have any memorable achievements related to projects?
From day one, I was really impressed by Woodruff Engineering’s dedication to high-quality engineering solutions. The way we customize magnets and power supplies to meet unique customer requirements is something truly special. One of my most memorable moments was working on a complex project where we had to engineer a custom solution under tight constraints—it was a challenging but rewarding experience seeing the final product come together.
What’s your role and what do you enjoy most about it?
As the Production Manager, I get to oversee the process of bringing our designs to life. Every project is different, and seeing how each team member brings their unique skill set to the table never fails to amaze me. Because many of our products are custom-built to meet customer specifications, being able to adapt quickly, reconfigure workstations, and set up jigs and fixtures efficiently is a crucial skill that makes all the difference.
What is your favorite project you have worked on?
One of my favorite projects was working on a magnet that used an aluminum strip as a conductor. It required a ton of prep work, including material finishing and applying Kapton tape to about 14,000 feet of aluminum strip! It was a huge effort, but our team worked seamlessly together, and in the end, we delivered a high-quality solution that exceeded the customer’s expectations. Seeing it all come together was incredibly satisfying.
What do you think of Woodruff Engineering’s company culture?
The company culture here is one of the best I’ve experienced. The emphasis on open communication and collaboration makes every project smoother and more enjoyable. What really stands out is how the company nurtures and develops the skills of each employee, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.
What led you to this career path?
I’ve spent a couple of decades working on custom Data Acquisition solutions for welding applications and additive manufacturing. What I love about this field is the challenge of integrating custom requirements into highly specialized systems. Over the years, I’ve developed a strong ability to adapt and problem-solve on the fly – skills that are essential when producing custom solutions. Now, leading a team of highly skilled, motivated, and dedicated individuals makes this job even more exciting.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? What’s a typical weekend for you? What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
Outside of work, I’m very involved in volunteer work. I spend time providing comfort to hospital patients and acting as a liaison between them and their physicians to ensure the best possible care. When I’m not volunteering, I love going on hikes with my wife and enjoying the outdoors. One fun fact that most people don’t know about me – I bought an electric unicycle during the pandemic! It took me a few months to master, but now I zip around the neighborhood and even do my grocery shopping on it.