“I try to go out once a week to check in with the crew, see how everything’s going, and make sure any issues are handled quickly,” Kennedy says. With the responsibility of managing hundreds of pieces of equipment across multiple states, Kennedy’s role is crucial for minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.

“One of the team’s key strategies for ensuring equipment reliability is its use of telematics. Sargent uses HCSS Equipment360, which is integrated into most of the equipment and provides real-time data on machine performance, fault codes, and service intervals.

“We’ve been using telematics since 2007, and it’s really starting to show its value in how we maintain our fleet”,” says Tim Richards, equipment manager. Machine data allows the maintenance team to be proactive rather than reactive, helping to prevent major repairs before they become an issue.

Another aspect of Sargent’s maintenance strategy is the use of a dedicated lube truck. One of Kennedy’s team is responsible for traveling across the region to change oil and perform scheduled maintenance on equipment in the field. “Having a lube tech on the road really helps us stay on top of regular service intervals,” Kennedy says. “It reduces the risk of component failures and ensures that machines stay in top condition.”

He used machine data to manage these services. “I use the system to track service intervals and get alerts when equipment is due for maintenance,” Kennedy says. “Every Monday, I print a list of machines that need servicing based on their hour readings and location. Then, I group them together and create a schedule for our lube tech, trying to minimize downtime while covering the most machines in the shortest time.”

Sargent’s maintenance practices are not without their challenges, however. One of the biggest hurdles is balancing tight deadlines with maintenance needs.

“A lot of it comes down to timing,” says Kennedy. “Sometimes equipment is pushed to the limit to meet deadlines, and that can complicate things.” Mace echoes this sentiment: “Communication is always a challenge in any company, but when you’re dealing with so many moving parts and people, it’s even more important.”

Richards credits Kennedy with handling these complexities well. “Ryan understands what can and can’t be done in the field,” he says. He’s good at making quick decisions and adapting to whatever the situation demands.”

As Sargent continues to grow, maintaining equipment reliability and minimizing downtime will remain a priority, according to Kennedy. With strategies like a dedicated lube truck and a consistently updated maintenance schedule, the company is set to handle the demands of a growing fleet while keeping its machines running efficiently across New England.