Juli 1, 2025

Fuel for Thought Newsletter, Volume 1

Safety Observation Identification: Documenting safety observations in a structured and transparent manner is crucial for effective site management and fostering a safety-conscious culture.

Safety, Stanadyne’s #1 Priority

Welcome to this quarter’s edition. As we continue to prioritize the well-being of our teams and the environment, this quarter’s issue brings you a spotlight of our EHS leads, safety observation best practices, and success stories from across the organization. Whether it’s enhancing workplace safety, promoting sustainable practices, or staying compliant with local evolving standards, our shared commitment to EHS excellence drives everything we do. Safety encompasses various measures, practices, and precautions taken to prevent accidents, injuries, or damage. At the heart of our operations are the environmental, health and safety leaders who champion a culture of safety across all our plants. Their commitment goes beyond compliance; it’s about embedding safety into every task, every shift, and every team interaction. Our plant spotlight this newsletter is our EHS leads at our plants across Stanadyne.

Success in EHS:
Our most recent success is from our SIPL team who completed their ISO 45001 & ISO 14001 external audits in April. The team prepared for the audit and passed with ZERO nonconformities, this includes Major, Minor, and OFI (opportunities for improvement) which is a tall feat. So, CONGRATULATIONS to the SIPL team!! In closing, all the EHS leads mentioned above drive progress in their field every day, yet Safety doesn’t only reside in their diligence, but in all of us becoming interdependent (ensuring safety of others not just ourselves). We must hold each other accountable and ensure we think safely and act safely every day. Let’s stay Safer Together! — Chris Crisler, Global EHS Manager
Sales:

Ford 6.7L DCR is breaking sales numbers. Monthly sales continue to rise with extra purchase orders coming in from our customer, S&S Diesel Motorsport. April was a new record of 4,000 pumps being shipped on a forecast of 2,500 pumps. Sales and Engineering attended the 2025 ACT Expo held in Anaheim, CA to showcase the new development truck of the Stanadyne LPG conversion system. — Chris Dye, Aftermarket, Performance, and Specialty Sales Manager

Opex:

‘Operational excellence is the systematic implementation of principles and tools to enhance our organizational performance.’ The entire organization is laser focused to deliver results. We are advancing well in 2025, and we expect to do so for the remainder of the year. To continue the trajectory, it is absolutely critical that we continue to follow the processes, apply the standards, and hold each other to an ever higher standard than before. We continue to foster our Kaizen culture and deliver change for the better results. OPEX enables employees (at all levels) to identify, deliver, and enhance the flow of value to customers. The use of the lean tools to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality of products and processes. This year we can recognize all regions for their participation in this step forward lead by our local OPEX leaders.

Jacksonville, US: Xavier Woods SCC, China: Mao Zhijian SIPL, India: Suresh Ranganathan

Success is not possible without all team members. Our 2025 target is for 50% of all employees to be participating in Kaizen events. If the teams are working in your areas, please, get involved. Your ideas and implementation efforts count! Please see some of the teams so far from around the sites. These members are from all levels of our organization which is a clear indicator of the commitment to the application of the Stanadyne Production System and toward continuous improvement.

JAX Employee Spotlight: Phillip Russo

Phil Russo

Mr. Phil began his Stanadyne journey at the Jacksonville plant back in February of 1978, becoming the 252nd employee! Starting on the night shift, Phil worked with diesel pumps for Humvees, Oldsmobiles, and agricultural engines. In his early days, the test stands were hand-cranked until fellow employee, Leno Lewis, was able to design a “Lovejoy” crank to streamline the process and assist the diesel team.

Phil was a constant presence during the focus shift from diesel to gasoline systems, showing an unwavering dedication. He is a great example of Stanadyne’s adaptability and resilience. Outside the technical aspects of the job, he said that he used to roast hogs for events with the diesel team. He loved how they would all donate to the party fund and even bought each other presents every Christmas. He has seen a lot of good people come and go, yet he highlights the high quality of people he’s worked alongside.

Currently, he loves the job he’s on and views the diesel team as its own little family. We appreciate Phil and his invaluable contributions to the Stanadyne team! Thank you, Phil, for your years of service and dedication.

PPT Employee Spotlight: Felicia McDaniels

Felicia McDaniels

This month, we’re proud to spotlight Felicia McDaniels, who was promoted to Team Leader in the Reman room. With over two decades of commitment and experience, Felicia brings energy, resilience, and leadership to her new role. Let’s learn more about her journey.

Introduction & Background

Q: Can you tell us a little about your background and how you first joined Pure Power?

A: I’m originally from Orangeburg, SC, and have been living in Columbia for the last 13 years. I’ve worked in manufacturing for the past 31 years and joined Pure Power—then Siemens VDO— in March of 2004.

Q: What roles have you held here prior to your promotion to Team Lead?

A: I started in Components as a Manufacturing Associate IV. Over the last 21 years, I’ve also worked in Reman, PCR, and I6 Assembly. I’ve even served as a backup MQA.

Promotion Journey

Q: Congratulations on your recent promotion! How did you feel when you learned you were being promoted to Team Lead?

A: I was excited, honored, and thankful—but also very nervous!

Q: What do you think helped you stand out for this leadership opportunity?

A: I think my work ethic stood out by itself and helped pave the way for this opportunity.

Q: Was there anyone who mentored or supported you along the way?

A: Absolutely—I have a whole squad! My former coworker, the former Reman Team Leader, my current supervisor, the Operations Manager, my former engineer, my best friend, my sons, my husband, and my family have all supported and mentored me through this journey.

Leadership & Teamwork

Q: What are you most looking forward to in your new role as Team Lead?

A: I’m looking forward to leading and motivating my team members in a positive work environment so we can achieve our goals together.

Q: How would you describe your leadership style?

A: I lead by example.

Q: What’s one goal you have for your team in the coming months?

A: I want the entire team to become flexible and cross-trained. Reflection & Advice

Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to grow within the company?

A: Be efficient, stay positive, and stay focused! Fun & Personal Side

Q: What do you like to do outside of work to recharge?

A: I love to run, exercise, and read.

Q: What’s a fun fact your coworkers might not know about you?

A: I love to laugh and spend time with my three grandsons—ages 10, 5, and 4. 

Closing Thoughts

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience, your team, or your goals for the future?

A: A year ago, I didn’t expect to be in this role. Although it’s busy, demanding, and challenging, I’m truly enjoying the experience of being a Team Leader in the Reman room.

Congratulations again to Felicia on her well-deserved promotion! Your dedication and positive attitude continue to inspire those around you.

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