NWP Employee Spotlight: Catarino Oviedo

NWP Employee Spotlight Series:
Illuminating Stories from the People of Northwest Pipe

At Northwest Pipe Company, our team members are the foundation of our success, and we take pride in our skilled and talented workforce. This series shares the inspiring stories and career journeys of employees from different departments and locations. In each installment, we interview one of our team members and delve into their experiences, challenges, and accomplishments, and discover why they choose to build their career with Northwest Pipe Company.

Spotlight on: Catarino Oviedo

Supervisor I – Assembly | Ferris, TX

Catarino Oviedo recently celebrated 20 years with ParkUSA, where he serves as Supervisor I – Assembly for the Water Distribution department in Ferris, TX. He brings two decades of experience in precast production, assembly, and field service—expertise that fuels his focus on safety, teamwork, and efficient problem-solving. A true example of Northwest Pipe Company’s lean manufacturing mindset, Catarino is committed to daily continuous improvement, always driving quality forward while keeping safety front and center.

How did you find your way to your current role?

I worked for a company in California that manufactures computer circuits for about 10 years. We decided to move to North Texas for better opportunities for our family. I applied for a position at the ParkUSA Ferris plant in the concrete department and did everything from helping run the mixing machine to building rebar. I took every opportunity to learn something new and move up. I had a field service role and now I supervise the Water Distribution Assembly team.

Looking back at when you first applied, what made you want to join ParkUSA?

I had manufacturing experience but wanted to do something different. The schedule was reliable with weekends off. And the plant is just five minutes from my house, so it’s an easy commute!

After 20 years, what makes you want to stay with the Company?

I love my job and the work I do. The benefits are good, it’s close to home, and it’s just a great company to learn and grow with.

Tell us about the Water Distribution Assembly team at the Ferris Plant.

There are four of us in the Water Distribution area. My team is responsible for producing water meter vaults and backflow preventers, including assembly, testing, and patching. We also put together the aluminum enclosures.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

I make the schedule for my team, start the day with a safety briefing, and go over what projects need to be completed that day. Throughout the day, I work with my team to solve any problems and make sure we are on track with our production schedule. Keeping inventory organized in our area is very important to make sure that we have the parts we need when we need them. But, the most important thing I do each day is care for my team and make sure everyone goes home safely.

How does your previous experience in the field help you in your current role?

Doing service calls and visiting job sites gave me a good understanding of how our products perform in the field. That experience helps me spot potential issues early and fix them during production. It’s definitely helped me stay ahead of problems before they happen, which makes things run smoother for everyone.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I’ve been with ParkUSA for 20 years, and each day I try to do my job a little better—because when you enjoy the work and take pride in what you do, you want to keep improving.

Which of the Northwest Pipe Company ACT Values (Accountability, Commitment, Teamwork) resonates most for you in your role?

Teamwork is so important. If you need a hand with something, someone’s always there—and they know they can count on you, too. When everyone’s willing to help and be helped, you get the job done faster, easier, and safer.

What advice do you have for someone starting a career in your field?

Think “safety first” and look out for your teammates. Focus on doing your job well and improving a little each day. Stick with it, and the opportunities will come.

Name something that always brightens your day outside of work.

My family – I’ve been married for 37 years, and I’ve got three grown kids and a grandson. I hope to have at least two more!

What do you like to do to unwind, and how does working at NWP help you maintain a work-life balance?

I like to travel to Mexico for vacations with my family at the beach. It’s nice to relax and unwind, so when I go back to work, I’m refreshed and able to think better. On weekends at home, I like working on my house doing plumbing projects, framing, and just keeping busy.