Gustavo Figueroa: A journey of dedication, technical expertise, and leadership at Matco Cat

Photo courtesy of Gustavo Figueroa.

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From technician to supervisor: A journey of growth and mastery

Gustavo Figueroa’s career in the mining and heavy equipment industry began in 2007, and over the years, he has risen through the ranks at Matco Cat, a leading provider of Caterpillar machinery and services. What started as a humble beginning working as a technician in the mining operations of La Herradura, Sonora, has now evolved into a leadership role, where he manages and supervises teams of technical professionals.

His story is one of resilience, continuous learning, and personal growth. “I started with the basics—lubricating mining equipment,” Gustavo reflects. “As time passed, I moved up step by step, taking on new challenges and responsibilities.”

After mastering the fundamentals of machine lubrication and preventive maintenance, Gustavo transitioned into more complex roles. By 2009, he was promoted to oversee a team of 20 technicians in the preventive maintenance department. a role he held until 2012. That year, he moved to Matco’s branch in Obregon, Sonora, marking a shift to a new technical area outside the mining sector.

Certifications: A stepping stone to expertise

Gustavo’s commitment to professional growth led him to pursue numerous certifications, each representing a milestone in his journey. In 2013, he was selected to join a team for an advanced technical evaluation at Caterpillar’s Tinajas Hills Training Center in Tucson, Arizona. There, he was assessed on the D8T tractor model, a challenging process that tested his knowledge and skills in diagnostics, troubleshooting, and system operations. He successfully passed the evaluation, and the following year, he earned another certification for the Caterpillar 320D excavator.

“Certifications are tools to solve every day technical problems. While they demonstrate technical capacity, the real challenge lies in applying that knowledge effectively to resolve issues,” Gustavo explains.

Over time, his role evolved further. From 2014 to 2017, he became a technical specialist, traveling to various Matco branches to solve complex problems that other technicians were unable to resolve. His reputation grew, and he became known as the go-to expert in the company for troubleshooting intricate issues.

The most challenging project: Overcoming obstacles

One of Gustavo’s most memorable and challenging projects occurred in 2016 when he was sent to Cananea, Sonora, to address persistent equipment failures. The technicians there were highly skilled, but despite their best efforts, certain issues remained unresolved. This was an opportunity for Gustavo to prove his capabilities. After successfully diagnosing and fixing the problem, he gained widespread recognition within the company for his technical acumen and leadership.

“The most difficult technical challenges are often electrical and hydraulic failures. These problems can be the trickiest to resolve, and they are what excite me the most,” he says.

The value of adaptability and growth

Looking ahead, Gustavo recognizes the need to diversify his knowledge beyond Caterpillar equipment. He believes that while Caterpillar is a leader in providing technical information and parts, the industry’s broader landscape offers opportunities to work with other equipment brands. The key, he says, lies in understanding the technical specifications and support systems for each brand to ensure reliability and minimize downtime.

“The most important tool is the ability to understand and work with technical information. Whether it’s Caterpillar or another brand, knowing how to access, study, and apply technical manuals is vital to staying ahead,” he asserts.

Advice for aspiring technicians

For those looking to start a career in the heavy equipment industry, Gustavo emphasizes the importance of passion and continuous learning. “Ask yourself if you truly enjoy this work,” he advises. “If you do, focus on training. The more you learn, the more you will realize your technical limits and how to overcome them.”

Despite the demanding nature of the job, Gustavo believes that anyone with a genuine interest in the field can succeed. He notes that some people may not enjoy studying, but there are still opportunities for growth in areas like component installation and removal, which align more closely with traditional mechanics.

A legacy of commitment and dedication

Looking back at his career, Gustavo credits his success to his natural ability to learn quickly, a trait he believes sets him apart. His passion for the job, combined with his talent for problem-solving, has been the driving force behind his rise at Matco Cat.

“Success is not just about technical skills but also about mindset. If you believe something is impossible, that’s when you limit yourself. There are no limits, except the ones we impose on ourselves,” he reflects, offering a powerful message for others striving to overcome challenges in their own careers.