With calm confidence and decades of hands-on experience, Matthew built a career solving complex mechanical challenges. His journey has taken him across industries, states, and systems – but what’s remained constant is his drive to improve, adapt, and keep things running at their best. This is the story of his career journey which has led to Industrial Maintenance Technician.
A Strong Foundation in Maintenance
Matthew brings over 20 years of maintenance experience, including machine installations, custom upgrades, welding, and electrical work. He’s known for his ability to rebuild and troubleshoot machines from the inside out, skills that have proven valuable in every role he’s taken on.
His specialty in greenhouse operations developed during his time in Texas, where he implemented new production lines and automation technology. Returning to Virginia to be closer to family, he continued refining those skills by helping a local greenhouse enhance its soil delivery systems, productivity, and overall efficiency.
Still, he knew there was more he could do.
Stepping into a Bigger Challenge
Though he enjoyed the technical work, Matthew felt it was time to take his abilities to a larger scale.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time working at the greenhouse, but I felt the need for a greater challenge and an opportunity to utilize my skills on a larger scale.” – Matthew
That mindset led him to search for something new, and after finding us online he submitted his information and resume. Our team found a perfect match for his skill set – an industrial maintenance technician position. While he was initially unsure about working through a staffing agency, he decided to take a chance.
Turning Experience into Opportunity
Matthew joined a leading cabinetry manufacturer in Culpeper as a contractor and quickly demonstrated his capabilities. In just three months, his reliability and impact earned him a full-time role.
“Initially, I was hesitant about using a temp agency, but taking that risk proved to be worthwhile.” – Matthew
Now, Matthew is thriving in a role that challenges and rewards him. He’s working close to home, has a strong support system on the job, and benefits that provide peace of mind for his family. With a career rooted in craftsmanship and curiosity, Matthew continues to grow, adapt, and raise the bar for what’s possible.
“Thank you, Matern Staffing and Teresa, for helping me get my foot in the door and for facilitating this positive change in my career!” – Matthew
We’re so grateful for Matthew’s willingness to take a chance on us, stretch his experience, and the impact he’s made on his employer, team, and customers.
Skilled technicians like Matthew are in high-demand across production and manufacturing facilities nationwide. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of industrial machinery mechanics, machinery maintenance workers, and millwrights is projected to grow 14 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.” Similarly, if you drill down into Career One Stop’s data, you’ll find a 16% growth projection in Virginia for this sector from 2023 to 2033. The average annual salary is $62,940 and the average hourly wage is $30.26/hr.
As companies continue to invest in modern and automated systems, the demand for this expertise isn’t just growing, it’s accelerating. For those with mechanical aptitude or a desire to work hands-on with advanced equipment, now is the time to train, upskill, or apply. The opportunities are there, and the industry is ready for the next generation of talent.
Now It’s Your Turn
Are you ready to take a leap into something new? Check our Jobs page to learn about our open opportunities – both skilled and entry-level. Visit our Workforce Development Resources to learn about local skilled trade opportunities.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Machinery Maintenance Workers, and Millwrights,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/industrial-machinery-mechanics-and-maintenance-workers-and-millwrights.htm (visited July 14, 2025)
Career One Stop, Virginia Career and Workforce Labor Market Information, Industrial Machinery Mechanics, https://svc.mt.gov/dli/careersearch/virginia/Details?occupation=49-9041.00 (visited July 17, 2025)