At Water Valley, we’re all about creating a place where people feel empowered and valued.
Tom Tkach, Plant Manager
Meet Tom Tkach, Plant Manager
Tom Tkach has been leading the Water Valley plant for over six years, and with 21 years of experience in the automotive, aerospace, and electrical industries, he brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership. His 33 years in management have helped steer the team through both growth and challenges. Tom’s leadership style is all about fostering a positive, collaborative environment where everyone can thrive, from overseeing production to ensuring maintenance and supporting his team.
What makes Solero Water Valley special?
“Since we opened in 1972, our Water Valley plant has been more than just a workplace—it’s become a pillar of the local community. As the town’s largest employer, we’ve created a family-like atmosphere where many employees aren’t just colleagues—they’re family. In fact, lots of people are related! A deep sense of camaraderie runs through the plant, and it’s not uncommon to see coworkers meeting up outside of work. With 435 employees and nearly 12 million parts produced annually, we play a key role in Solero’s global success, and we’re proud to call Water Valley home.”
How does the plant contribute to Solero’s global success?
“Our Water Valley plant is the largest and highest-volume facility in the Solero family, producing over 120 SKUs across seven key product families. Nearly 50% of Solero’s global production comes from our team, serving OEMs, service providers, and aftermarket customers all over the world. We’re a crucial part of Solero’s operations, and we help fuel the company’s ongoing growth.”
What’s the focus of operations here?
“At Water Valley, we’re all about creating a place where people feel empowered and valued. We’re committed to delivering high-quality products on time, with customer satisfaction at the heart of everything we do. We’re also deeply invested in our people, which is why we proudly hold certifications like ISO 14001, ISO 45001, IATF 16949, and OSHA VPP to ensure we meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.”
How would you describe the team culture and community impact?
“The culture at Water Valley is built on trust, collaboration, and a true sense of family. Many of us have been working together for years, and there’s a lot of mutual respect and friendship. Coworkers often hang out outside of work, and we take pride in knowing each other both personally and professionally. Beyond the work we do, we’re also passionate about giving back to the community, whether through volunteering, charity events, or other initiatives. We’re more than just a plant—we’re an integral part of Water Valley, and we’re proud of the positive impact we make both at work and in our community.”
How does the facility reflect Solero’s values?
“At Water Valley, we truly live Solero’s values. We blend operational excellence with a commitment to our community and our people. While we meet global production needs, we stay grounded in local initiatives that help us make a meaningful difference at both the global and community levels.”
What’s next for the team?
“The future looks incredibly bright here in Water Valley. We’re preparing for some exciting growth, including the addition of new product lines like active suspension and thermal management systems. These innovations will expand our capabilities and strengthen our role as a key contributor to Solero’s success for many years to come. We’re excited about the opportunities ahead, and we’re ready to take on whatever comes next!”
