Meet the Maker Rodney Fannin

At Milliken, the dedication and expertise of our associates form the foundation of our success. We’re spotlighting the resilient individuals behind our products, who carry forward a proud history of excellence and commitment in manufacturing. Today, we highlight Rodney Fannin, a vital member of our Engineering Services team in Flooring at the Live Oak Plant in LaGrange, Georgia. Celebrating 50 years at Milliken on October 8th this year, his service stands as a testament to his loyalty, expertise, and mentorship.

A Legacy of Dedication

Rodney Fannin’s journey with Milliken began in 1974, straight out of high school. Encouraged by his cousins who worked at Milliken, Rodney decided to join the company. "They suggested it would be a good place to start working, and they were right," Rodney recalls. Starting as a material handler and then moving to a machine operator, Rodney quickly showed a knack for understanding equipment, leading him to the maintenance department.

The People Behind the Success

Throughout his 50 years at Milliken, Rodney has valued the relationships he's built with his colleagues. "It's like a family to me," he says. "Everybody works together, and there's a real interest in safety and advancement." The camaraderie and mutual support among his coworkers have been instrumental in his long and successful career. Rodney’s close friendships with colleagues like Gary Johnson and George William, with whom he worked for over 45 years, have been particularly meaningful. "We motivated each other and worked as a team," Rodney shares.

Mentorship and Training

One of Rodney’s most rewarding roles has been as a mentor and trainer for new associates. "It’s special to see someone take to what you’re instructing them in and excel," he says. Rodney’s experience and knowledge make him the go-to person for training new team members, helping them understand the intricacies of their roles and encouraging them to advance within the company. "Seeing them go on to higher positions makes me proud," he adds.

Ensuring Safety and Quality

Rodney's dedication to safety is unwavering. "Safety comes first. Each one of us has a family, and it would devastate me to see someone get hurt," he emphasizes. Daily safety meetings and job safety analyses (JSA) are integral parts of his routine, ensuring that every task is approached with caution and care. This focus on safety not only protects the associates but also ensures the quality and reliability of the products they produce.

A Day in the Life

Rodney's day begins with a safety meeting, followed by tackling work orders and preventive maintenance tasks. "We try to find problems before they become issues in the production area," he explains. His meticulous approach to maintenance helps keep the plant running smoothly, contributing to the production of high-quality carpet tiles and area rugs that meet customer specifications.

A Pillar of the Community

Rodney's influence extends beyond his technical expertise. He is known for his willingness to help and his ability to foster a positive work environment. "Milliken takes suggestions seriously and is always looking to improve processes. That’s what I like about working here," he says. This open and collaborative culture is a key reason why Rodney has stayed with Milliken for half a century.

Join Us in Recognizing These Remarkable Individuals

Rodney Fannin’s 50 years of service are a remarkable achievement, reflecting his dedication, expertise, and commitment to his colleagues. We’re spotlighting Rodney and all our associates who make Milliken an exceptional place to work. Their dedication and expertise are the foundation of our continued success.

As we continue to innovate and solve problems, driven by curiosity and collaboration, we invite you to join us in recognizing the incredible people behind our products. At Milliken, our associates are our greatest asset, and their stories inspire us to keep pursuing a better tomorrow.

To read more associate stories, visit here.

Want to join #TeamMilliken? Visit our careers webpage to learn more about your next opportunity.