Sonja Niles, OH, USA

IT Service Desk Technician

Why have you chosen to work with RTI?

I started at RTI in December, 2001 through an ad in the local newspaper. RTI Niles has provided jobs to many local residents. For this reason, I have decided to remain at RTI Niles.

What is the purpose of the Service Desk?

The IT Service Desk is the central hub for all employees to contact when there is an issue with - Hardware - Software - Network - Communications - SAP

What is a typical day in the life of a Service Desk Technician?

The IT Service Desk averages 150 to 200 emails a day and numerous phone calls. My day consists of routing all of the above issues to the proper technician or resolving the employee’s problem myself. For some issues, the IT Service Desk is able to remote in and resolve immediately via the phone or through emails.

When should employees contact the Service Desk?

The IT Service Desk is a good place to start when there is a question about IT issues. If we don’t know the answer, we will find someone that does.

What is the work environment like at RTI?

I have worked with a great group of people for over 7 years. I have learned a lot from the professionals in network, communications, and database. The biggest challenge in this position is keeping up with changes and learning internal connections. But that’s the nature of IT: an always changing world.

Lori Niles, OH, USA

Sr. Human Resources Generalist

What is a typical day in the life of a Sr. Human Resources Generalist?

The Sr. HR Generalist position has a lot of varied responsibilities. Every day is different in its' own unique way. I work with a diverse group of employees, both hourly and salaried. I handle employee relations issues, interpret labor agreements, administration of the Family and Medical Leave Act, immigration, recruitment, interviewing and selection, just to name a few. My workday is constantly busy, and there’s always a problem to solve or an employee who needs assistance. My job is always rewarding and challenging.

Do you work with a team?

Yes, I am a part of the Niles HR team and the Corporate HR team. We also work with other departments throughout the RTI Niles organization, e.g. Operations, IT, R&D, Accounting, Engineering, Safety, Quality, etc. We all work together to provide outstanding service to the employees.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced that has played a role in your professional development?

The scope of my responsibilities has grown significantly during the past year. I have branched out into areas that are new to me, e.g. labor relations. From a growth and learning perspective, I am increasing my skill set in labor relations by developing a better understanding of the contract language and interpretation of the local labor agreements.

Do you have any advice for someone looking to start or make a change in their career?

Research your proposed career by focusing on the job outlook, national employment data and occupational employment statistics, to help you determine if you are making the right decision. It’s equally important to know how hard it will be for you to acquire a job in your new career and also how much income you can expect to make in your new profession.

It’s also a good idea to talk to someone who is currently working in the field you are interested in. Conduct an interview to learn more about the person’s daily tasks, goals and objectives of the position, physical requirements, work schedule, etc. It’s one thing to read about a job on paper, but another to actually perform the essential job functions.

What might the future hold for you?

Although my tenure with RTI has only consisted of the past 2-1/2 years, I see myself working at RTI for many years to come. I have managed to professionally grow in my position and I aspire to one day be promoted to an HR Manager. I look forward to increasing my knowledge and involvement in plant operations as well as expanding my responsibilities within my position. At some point in the future, I would also like to pursue an M.B.A.

What do you like about your work location (city, office, etc.)?

RTI Niles is a very diverse place to work. With about 500 employees, it’s the largest location for the company. I like the dynamics of working in a large-scale production facility. I enjoy working with operations as well as the other diverse departments at this location. RTI Niles is also the oldest facility in the company; its history has greatly contributed to the culture of the company.

Justin Niles, OH, USA

Process Engineer - Quality Assurance

Why did you choose to work with RTI?

I started working four years ago for RTI as a graduate student while completing my Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. I chose to start my career with RTI upon graduation because I couldn’t hand pick a better group of professionals to call co-workers. I had a great manager at that time and was fortunate to get the opportunity to work for another fantastic manager. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.

Why have you chosen to continue your career with RTI?

RTI is an international aerospace/defense supplier that offers a variety of products to the largest companies in the industry. This leads to exciting professional growth potential within the organization, both domestically and internationally. I enjoy working on a variety of projects and each day provides a new challenge.

What are some exciting projects you've been able to work on?

RTI has provided me the opportunity to participate in and lead many great projects. I have participated in new equipment purchases, process design and various Heat Treating/Furnace projects for NADCAP.

Do you work with a team?

RTI has a team-oriented work environment that utilizes multi-functional teams to push the limits of manufacturing. Working as a Process Engineer allows me to create and modify manufacturing processes to compete in a global market.

How does RTI invest in your professional development?

Since starting with RTI, I have been given the opportunity to gain a Black Belt in Six Sigma, AS9100c Lead Auditor Training, Lean Manufacturing Training, as well as participate in countless additional opportunities for professional growth. For anyone looking to have a fulfilling career in the titanium industry, look no further than RTI.

What might the future hold for you?

I’m not sure what the future holds for me yet. However, with our leadership team and growth potential, I’m sure it will be positive.

What do you like about your work location (city, office, etc.)?

I was born and raised in Boardman, Ohio; therefore, I’m originally from the Youngstown/Niles area. Our Niles location offers affordable housing, low cost of living and is a wonderful place to raise a family. It is an equally short commute to either the Cleveland or Pittsburgh areas, both of which offer professional sports and entertainment options.

Roxanne Laval, Quebec, Canada

Environmental, Health & Safety

Why did you choose to work for RTI?

I started with RTI Claro as an intern. At the end of my studies, RTI decided to hire me as an Environmental, Health and Safety technician. I chose to work at RTI because of the growth opportunities. RTI offers me the chance to flourish in all aspects of my studies (environment, health, safety and industrial hygiene). This is a rare quality on the labor market. This allows me to gain diverse experience in the field. Since I am early in my career, this is a great advantage.

What are some exciting projects you have been able to work on?

The division I work for is a recently added division to RTI International Metals. The main project which I currently work on is to establish an Environmental, Health and Safety management system as required by RTI. This includes procedure elaboration, implementation, training of personnel involved with these procedures, etc. This is an important project, and it will be valuable for the company in the long term.

Do you work with a team?

We are two employees in the EHS Department: my Supervisor and I. The development and implementation of an Environmental, Health and Safety management system is a project that requires the cooperation and involvement of all the company’s employees. Our daily tasks are centered on teamwork with all employees, team leaders, supervisors and managers.

What is the company Culture/work environment like?

The work environment at RTI is very amicable. Our company organizes several activities outside of working hours such as team sports to promote cohesion development. All the employees support each other and in doing so, they contribute to a common goal -- the success of our company.

How does RTI invest in your professional development?

RTI offers me the opportunity to attend several training courses related to my daily tasks to improve my skills or acquire new knowledge.

What do you like about your work location?

What I like best about my work location is the distance from my home to work. It is a 12-minute drive against traffic!