From the ground up

By Jesse Sanchez.

A leader in post-fabrication finishing shares insights on craftsmanship, AI and the future of production.

Fifteen years ago, Everette Hickman stepped into the coatings industry as a general laborer. Today, he plays a pivotal role in business development at Finishing Dynamics, a company known for its expertise in post-fabrication finishing. His journey reflects a blend of hands-on experience, leadership and an eagerness to embrace emerging technologies.

Everette’s start in the industry was a direct result of networking. “A guy that used to work here reached out and asked if I wanted to join the team in general labor,” he recalled. Over the years, he moved through multiple positions, gaining expertise in various aspects of production before advancing into a leadership role. Now, as a key figure in business development, Everette continues to shape the company’s trajectory.

One of the most rewarding aspects of his career is seeing raw materials transform into high-quality finished products. “The process of production is engaging, and no two projects are ever the same,” he said. His work at Finishing Dynamics has contributed to projects spanning multiple sectors, including healthcare, education and sports stadiums.

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, Everette remains optimistic about its potential impact on production. “I think we’re just at the beginning,” he noted. “As time goes on, I think we’ll see tools come online that will make our specific production tasks and jobs easier.” He views AI as an opportunity for efficiency and scalability rather than a disruptive force.

A strong company culture has also played a significant role in Everette’s long-standing tenure at Finishing Dynamics. “I don’t feel like I’m just a number and everyone here feels that way,” he expressed. “We have a tight-knit group that works really well as a team.” This sense of camaraderie fuels a collective dedication to quality craftsmanship.

His transition into business development has brought new challenges and opportunities. “I’ve enjoyed the challenge and the opportunity to expand my horizons,” he said. “It’s opened a lot of doors to new opportunities, relationships and growth.” Through this role, he has gained insight into the built environment process and forged connections with industry professionals.

As an industry leader, Everette has an in-depth understanding of Finishing Dynamics’ core expertise — PVDF (Kynar) coatings. With one of the largest paint lines in the Southeast, the company ensures that every aluminum product undergoes a rigorous pre-treatment and finishing process, adhering to strict AAMA standards. He explained, “We can apply up to four coats and are an approved applicator for Sherwin-Williams and PPG.”

Everette’s journey from an entry-level position to a leadership role is a testament to the value of persistence, expertise and adaptability. As he continues to navigate industry advancements, his passion for quality and innovation remains at the forefront of Finishing Dynamics’ success.

To stay updated on industry advancements and hear more inspiring stories like Everette Hickman’s, follow Finishing Dynamics and explore the latest in post-fabrication finishing.