Bright Lights: STG Texas Team
In our Bright Lights series, we showcase our brilliant employees and their experience of working here at STG Aerospace. This time, we spoke to Andrew Gonzales, Operations Manager of STG – US site. STG is a Heads Up Technologies Company, based in Texas.
Since joining STG in July 2024, Andrew has been instrumental in developing strong teams across both our photoluminescent (PL) and LED cabin lighting systems (CLS) US production lines. With a background of running his own business for over two decades, Andrew was introduced to STG by a customer and quickly found the challenge and reward he had been looking for in his career. Now, his days are filled with supporting his teams and collaborating with STG’s main operation in the UK.
Andrew describes STG’s US hub as an additional version to its UK counterpart in Cwmbran, South Wales, to support US customers. Noting that while there are some differences in certifications and regulations, the operational setup and ambitions are aligned with the wider Group.
He explains: “My goal has always been to be a little more like the UK team, because the innovations came from there, and our UK team have a lot of experience to draw on. So far, I think we’re doing really well.”
Can you tell us about the PL Team?
The PL production line currently consists of four team members Prum Seyma Hang, Loretta Mercadel, Mariyah Mercadel, Virginia Paris, Kevin Philman and Sandy Vazquez.
Andrew said: “The process begins with Kevin preparing materials for the line. These are then passed to Virginia and Sandy, who each work on separate production orders and carry out the initial assembly before handing parts over to Mariah and Prum. They complete the process with testing and packing. Final quality checks are then completed by me or Emma Cheatham , a member of the quality team.”
Andrew explained that flexibility plays a key role in how the PL team operates as shifts are staggered between 6am and 8am and run to mid-late afternoon. Andrew checks in with the team at the start of each day to ensure they have what they need and that the day’s goals are clear and achievable. While some team members enjoy the consistency of their roles, others are taking advantage of opportunities to branch out into new responsibilities, including support with packing and the CLS line to expand their skills.
Tell us about the CLS Assembly Team
The CLS Team is currently made up of Kevin and Loretta . To foster greater collaboration and camaraderie on site, they recently joined the PL Team in a shared space. Labelling and stock management are key parts of the CLS process, and both teams are praised by Andrew for being proactive and well-prepared.
“We keep good levels of stock on the shelf so we’re ready when orders come in, especially for customers who might request next-day shipping.”
Andrew explains that while most production is planned and forecasted, the team also focuses on ensuring a sufficient level of safety stock, to be prepared for any orders that come in at short notice.
“Right now, we’re building up stock to stay ahead. That way if we get an unexpected order, we can turn it around fast without it impacting our flow.”
Collaborating with the UK team
Despite the six-hour time difference with the UK, Andrew feels they manage this well without any impact on operations. He prioritises UK communications first thing in the morning to ensure that he and his teams have all they need for the day and that goals are agreed and aligned.
He said: “The geographic separation is not a problem for the team, it’s just a factor for me to manage as part of my day to day, as it is for any international operation. I start quite early and make sure I get everything I need from the UK teams first thing. On occasion when I have needed something a little later in the day, the UK team are extremely supportive..”
As STG’s footprint in the US continues to grow and evolve, Andrew plays a central role in building an aligned operation. His enthusiasm, attention to detail and team-first approach have already made a significant impact, and the future is exciting for Andrew and the growing team in Texas.