TLT: How long have you worked in a lubrication-related field, and how did you decide to pursue a career in the lubricants industry?
Garcia: I’ve been in the industrial CNC manufacturing sector for over 10 years, starting as an operator and gradually specializing in coolant management due to the growing needs of facilities. My interest in lubrication grew from hands-on experience and seeing the direct impact of effective coolant management on employees, machine efficiency and longevity.


Temporary coolant transfer setup using an air-operated pump and IBC tote during tank overhaul operations. This image shows how Garcia managed coolant reclamation and transfer between machines while performing deep clean maintenance.

TLT: What has been your most rewarding accomplishment throughout your career in the lubricants industry?
Garcia: Launching and managing a full-time coolant system role in our shop has been highly rewarding. I led a major project to clean and replenish all 50-plus CNC machines and sump tanks, which have an average capacity of 300 gallons. Completing this massive task with only one other person within four months and reducing machine downtime to just eight hours annually for sump cleaning maintenance stands out as a significant achievement.

TLT: What is the No. 1 piece of advice you would give to a person who might be interested in starting a career in the lubricants industry?
Garcia: Stay hands on and involved at every level. The best way to understand and improve lubrication systems is through direct interaction with the machinery and processes you’re managing. This hands-on experience is invaluable for problem solving and innovating in real time. Always keep learning and stay updated on new technologies and practices in the field. The industry is always changing, and keeping up with these changes can help you make significant contributions to your workplace.


Contaminated filter plate removed during the overhaul process. Years of residue from cast iron machining and inadequate filtration led to rust, blockage and reduced coolant flow.


Close-up of tank interior before cleaning, revealing heavy biofilm and metallic sludge formations. These stalactite-like buildups are signs of stagnant coolant and lack of proper circulation.

TLT: Throughout the different segments within your career, which one has been the most interesting, challenging and/or rewarding?
Garcia: The transition from machine operator to coolant system manager has been the most interesting and challenging. It involved a steep learning curve, especially when we introduced new conveyor systems and began testing various coolants to tackle issues like foam formation and filter blinding. This phase also has been incredibly rewarding, as it has allowed me to shape the role and directly see the impact of my work on operations.

TLT: What are some of the most technical lubrication-based concepts or topics that you have encountered throughout your career?
Garcia: Working with advanced filtration conveyor systems and different types of metalworking fluids to accommodate specific materials like painted cast iron has been technically challenging. Each adjustment in the process requires careful consideration of how changes affect everything from machine cleanliness to tool life and overall production efficiency.

TLT: How do you ensure environmental compliance and safety in your coolant management practices?
Garcia: Ensuring compliance involves integrating ISO 14001 environmental management standards into every aspect of the coolant system operations. Regular audits and monitoring waste disposal are crucial, but so is proactive staff training. I develop and oversee training programs and create operational work instructions (OWIs) that guide operators in maintaining safety standards. These instructions cover everything from filter changes, coolant housekeeping, keeping the tanks properly filled and spill control. This comprehensive approach ensures that everyone not only understands the how of their tasks but also the why behind them, reinforcing the importance of compliance and safety in day-to-day operations.


Coolant tank in mid-cleaning phase, showing accumulated sludge, tramp oil and sediment. This buildup reduces coolant efficiency and contributes to bacterial growth if not addressed through regular maintenance.

TLT: What are some issues you face in managing coolant systems for such a large shop?
Garcia: The biggest challenge is maintaining consistency and precision across all 50-plus machines since not all are the same, some systems are 30 years old and some are less than a year. Each system has its unique quirks, and even minor deviations in coolant concentration or pH can impact machine performance and product quality. Balancing these nuances while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations requires constant vigilance and adaptation.

TLT: What is the one thing you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?
Garcia: I wish I had understood the importance of environmental compliance and certifications earlier in my career. Realizing how critical these elements are to sustainable operations has reshaped my approach to managing the coolant systems and has driven me to seek out advanced training and certifications actively.

You can reach Guillermo Garcia at will@accurategauge.com.