SMRP: A Proven Path to Excellence in Maintenance & Reliability

The Society for Maintenance and Reliability Professionals (SMRP) was founded in 1992 to support those in the maintenance and reliability function. A review of its website, www.smrp.org, reveals a clear mission:

• Facilitate the exchange of information through a structured network of maintenance and reliability professionals.
• Support maintenance and reliability as an integral part of business management.
• Advocate for maintenance and reliability issues and advance innovative practices.
• Promote education for people, production, and quality processes to improve the work environment.

I first encountered SMRP at the 1998 conference in St. Louis. The depth of research, the quality of presentations, and the commitment of seasoned practitioners immediately convinced me of its value. I have since attended every annual conference—my 10th consecutive attendance in 2007—earning insights that directly addressed challenges at work.

Over the past decade, Cargill and I have leveraged SMRP in three critical ways: learning, networking, and certification.

Learning—the annual conference is just the start. SMRP workshops, executive meetings, and other events have provided ongoing education. I have met leaders such as Jack Nicholas, Doc Palmer, Howard Penrose, Tom Byerley, John Moubray, John Schultz, and Ron Moore, whose advice has shaped our approach to maintenance and reliability.

Networking—these events foster relationships that evolve into professional allies and friends.

Certification—Cargill’s early 1990s push to keep maintenance and reliability leaders grounded in fundamentals led me to champion the Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP) designation. As a SMRP Certification Organization (SMRPCO) board member, I helped set policy and direction for the certification program. Today, more than 200 Cargill associates hold the CMRP credential, and the certification has tangibly improved operations across our facilities.

SMRP’s executive meetings—held quarterly at member company sites—offer a deeper dive into best practices. After a networking reception, participants hear case studies from host companies, tour facilities, and return home equipped with actionable ideas.

My involvement with SMRPCO, executive meetings, and board sessions has culminated in my election as chairman of SMRP’s board of directors. In this role, I guide the organization in delivering products and services that benefit the entire membership.

I encourage all maintenance and reliability professionals to get involved with SMRP. Volunteer on committees, share your expertise, and join a community that empowers you to excel in your career and in improving your organization.

Tim Goshert is the worldwide reliability and maintenance manager for Cargill, one of the world’s largest food and agricultural processing companies, with more than 1,000 facilities worldwide. He leads Cargill’s global reliability and maintenance initiatives and chairs the company’s Worldwide Reliability and Maintenance Steering Committee. Tim is an active SMRP board member. Contact him at tgoshert@hotmail.com or Timothy_Goshert@cargill.com.