Potain tower crane technician Cyrille Giamello reflects on his 26-year journey in crane support and discusses how the field is evolving with Looking Up.
Meet Cyrille Giamello, a seasoned Potain tower crane technician with an impressive 26-year career at Manitowoc. Based in Niella Tanaro, Italy, Cyrille has grown both personally and professionally since starting with the Company in 1998, following in the footsteps of his father and uncle.
When he's not working, Cyrille enjoys cycling and spending cherished time with his family—a precious balance to his demanding job. In a conversation with Looking Up, he reflects on his global experiences in the crane industry and reveals what it takes to thrive in a constantly changing field.
Looking Up: How did you get into the crane industry? How did your career progress from there?
Giamello: I was only 15 years old when I began working on the production line at the Potain factory. After some time, I chose my specialty and became an expert welder, following in the footsteps of my father and uncle. I then advanced to the jib welding department. From there, I eventually moved on to assembling and welding the Igo 13 and Igo 21 crane prototypes.
Today, I’m a husband, father of three, and a I’ve been a Potain tower crane technician since 2008. In the beginning, I was managing crane updates and handling product improvement programs (PIPS). Over the years, thanks to the extensive training I’ve received, I’ve expanded my skills to include crane assembly, disassembly, maintenance, and carpentry repairs, taking advantage of the expert welder’s licenses that I earned in the past.
LU: How has the crane industry changed over time?
Giamello: Over the years, technological advancements in cranes have significantly improved our work, making problem-solving quicker, safer, and more effective. For instance, accessing documentation has become simpler and more convenient through our smartphones. Manitowoc’s Crane Control System (CCS) feature has also drastically streamlined crane testing operations and Potain CONNECT telematics allows us to remotely connect to cranes in real time, making our jobs easier.
In the past, adjusting the trolley limit, for example, required manually adjusting it at height with a screwdriver. Now, with CCS, everything is done directly from the crane’s cab, which enhances operator safety and reduces intervention times.
LU: What do you enjoy most about being a crane technician?
Giamello: I love traveling around the world, working at heights, and having the freedom to manage and organize my own schedule. With no fixed hours, I need to be available immediately if any issues arise. I’m constantly meeting new people, coordinating with construction teams, and collaborating with people from different areas of the Company and varied backgrounds.
My job is dynamic and fulfilling, packed with lots of responsibility. I help facilitate seamless crane operations to ensure successful projects, and it’s never monotonous; every day brings a new challenge and adventure.
LU: How often do you get to travel abroad and for what purpose?
Giamello: I traveled all over the world in the past, working in Cyprus, Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, and northern Europe. I supported key accounts and large dealer projects, managed difficult crane assemblies and anchoring.... the list goes on. Currently, I’m primarily traveling across Italy.
One of the most memorable work trips was earlier this year to the Gravagna viaduct reconstruction near Genoa, Italy. We assembled four of our largest-ever Potain MDLT 1109 top-slewing cranes. It was an extremely interesting project, and I was honored to be part of it.
LU: What skills do you need to succeed as a crane technician?
Giamello: You must be organized and highly adaptable, as the industry evolves daily with new conditions and rules. Staying informed is crucial. Additionally, you need to be practical, resilient, and ready to face new challenges.
LU: What do you hope to achieve in the future with your career?
Giamello: I’d love to become a “flying doctor,” a role that combines training with technical management on special projects. It would allow me to share the knowledge and expertise that I’ve built over the years, fostering continuous development and product improvement for the Company and for generations to come.