40 Under 40: Luis Godinez
Welding Manager; Blue Ox; With company: 13 years | Industry experience: 13 years
Luis Godinez demonstrates outstanding leadership through his hands-on approach, technical expertise and genuine commitment to the people he leads.
As welding manager at Blue Ox, Luis oversees both robotic and hand welding operations for towing products, ensuring his team maintains high standards for quality, safety and productivity.
Luis started at Blue Ox as an assembly tech and moved into welding when a position opened a few years later. In 2021, he was promoted to welding manager.
“Luis’s leadership is especially meaningful because he started his career as a hand welder and worked his way up through the organization,” his nominator says says. “His experience on the shop floor gives him a strong understanding of the challenges his employees face and allows him to lead by example. He remains very hands-on and approachable, taking the time to listen to his employees and understand their concerns and ideas. This has earned him the respect of his team and made him a well-liked and trusted manager.”
Luis has played a significant role in helping Blue Ox overcome challenges and improve its operations over the last several years.
“Whether it’s been identifying and implementing cost reduction initiatives or increasing production volume, Luis has never been one to shy away from a challenge,” his nominator says. “His willingness to collaborate with other departments to help find better ways to build a product while maintaining high-quality standards and productivity is what separates Luis from others.”
Luis’ leadership and creativity have helped the company increase robotic welding capabilities by 300% and reduce production cycle times by 65%.
And his leadership extends beyond managing daily operations. He’s also committed to sharing his knowledge and investing in the next generation of welders.
“One of Luis’s greatest strengths is his ability to bring out the best in his employees,” his nominator says. “Over the years, he has played an important role in training and developing many younger welders, helping them build their skills and confidence while preparing them for greater responsibilities.”
Outside of work, Luis also serves as an E-7 Sergeant First Class in the Nebraska National Guard. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, golfing and cheering on the San Francisco 49ers.
Luis’ advice for up-and-coming leaders in the RV industry:
Never ask your team to do something you are not willing to do yourself. Learn the work, listen to the people closest to the process, stay consistent, and invest in helping others grow because strong teams and strong leaders are built the same way: one day and one decision at a time.
What it means to Luis to be a 40 Under 40 honoree:
Being named a 40 Under 40 honoree is a meaningful reflection of the people who have invested in me throughout my career: my family, mentors, coworkers and the Blue Ox team. I’m proud to represent a company and industry that help people enjoy the freedom and experiences that come with the RV lifestyle, and I hope to keep earning opportunities to lead and give back.
