ABOUT US
Since 1978, the Filmax team has proudly served the power, natural gas, industrial, mining, and diesel engine markets through our extensive line of industry-specific oil filtration systems and filters. At Filmax, we employ a "listen first" policy in order to better understand the unique needs of each customer.
This method has enabled us to design and manufacture the most reliable, innovative, and proven product line in the industry while also presenting our clients with a permanent solution for reducing costs. Our team is consistently recognized for providing superior product performance, customer service, and technical support. Contact us today – we'd appreciate the opportunity to listen to your challenges and offer a solution that best fits your company's needs.
MEET THE TEAM
Sherman Childers President & Managing Director
Sherman Childers was named President and Managing Director of Filmax, LLC in July 2015 after serving as the V.P. of Marketing and Sales. During his tenure, Filmax has firmly positioned itself as an industry leader in manufacturing filtration systems and filter elements. Sherman credits the growth to superior customer service and tireless efforts to ensure that Filmax manufactures and delivers the most innovative and cost-efficient solutions in the filtration market today. He also recognizes the importance of having a great team and positive work environment. “We are truly blessed at Filmax to have the best staff in the industry. Customers are our highest priority at Filmax, and that starts with the character and dedication of our team,” Sherman states.
Sherman graduated from Tennessee Technological University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration.
While not at Filmax, Sherman enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons. He coaches local youth sports, enjoys playing golf and cheering on his Kentucky Wildcats!
Steve Leath Vice President, Engineering
Steve Leath is a graduate of Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology and is licensed as a Professional Engineer in Ohio and Indiana.
Steve has over three decades of experience in the US Electric Utility industry, serving in technical advisory roles in support of the condition assessment and maintenance of Generation, Transmission, and Substation assets. Prior to joining Filmax, recent roles and responsibilities were to advise and define asset management programs for Power Transformers and Load Tap Changers for one of the largest electric utilities in the US.
Steve has written and presented technical papers on Equipment Condition Assessment protocols and Asset Management directives at conferences, including ABB Power World, ASNT, and the International Conference of Doble Clients. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
Steve is an avid cyclist, hiker/backpacker, and photographer whose imagery and artworks can be viewed at www.steveleath.com.
David Butler Power Industry Consultant
David Butler served as president of Filmax from 1992 until his semi-retirement in 2015. David currently works with Filmax as a consultant for the power industry.
Donnie Erickson Plant Manager
Donnie Erickson has been with Filmax since 2007, and supervises all operations pertaining to the manufacture and technical support of our outstanding filtration systems. Donnie’s breadth of knowledge, skill, and experience with the design and construction of Filmax machines is unmatched, as is his dedication to providing our customers with the ideal system for their needs. No machine is equipped with the Filmax label unless it meets Donnie’s stringent testing requirements.
Donnie came to Filmax from a supervisory position with a national coffee company. His background includes technical services, machine operations, and construction. While living in Nashville, Donnie also served as a member of the quality control team for Gibson Guitars.
In his free time, Donnie enjoys spending time with his family and playing in his band.
Ben Waters Production Engineer
Ben Waters began his career at CCECO in Kent, WA working with hydraulic and oil filtration systems while pursuing his Mechanical Engineering degree from St. Martin’s University. He joined Filmax and relocated to Knoxville in February 2015, and since then has grown steadily in his role with the team.
With over 16 years of experience in the oil industry, Ben’s knowledge and attention to detail are essential in ensuring the quality and innovation that characterize Filmax products. In his position as Production Engineer, Ben is responsible for product development and technical support.
Outside of work, Ben spends his time with his wife and two sons. He enjoys golf, working out, and cheering for the Seattle Seahawks
Traci Leonard Office Manager
Traci Leonard joined the Filmax team in June 2015 and serves as Office Manager. Traci is responsible for HR administration, accounts payable and receivable functions, corporate communications and, as with the rest of the team, providing Filmax customers with exceptional service. Traci came to Filmax from the University of Tennessee, where she served in the Division of Student Affairs and the Office of the Chancellor. She has also held Human Resources Director and Human Resources Generalist positions and has received PHR certification.
Traci holds a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree from the University of Tennessee.
Traci is the proud mom of two pit bulls who are in charge of everything. She is an avid fan of UT athletics (Go Vols!) and Atlanta Braves baseball.
Lacy Berry Business Support Manager
Lacy Berry joined the Filmax team in December 2013. In her current business support role, Lacy is responsible for shipments, serves as production liaison , as well as ensuring Filmax's unparalleled customer service and sales support.
From 2011-2013, Lacy held management positions with Accenture, a global services company, and its affiliate Marriott International, one of the largest hospitality and lodging companies in the United States. She has also held various positions within the banking industry.
Lacy attended the University of Tennessee and holds an Accounting and Business Principles' certification from Pellissippi State Community College.
While not at Filmax, Lacy enjoys spending time with her husband, three kids, and pit bull (Hank).