At Talos Automation, we’re proud to work with contractors who not only bring immense talent and dedication to their roles but who also remain part of our extended family for years. One such standout is Tiago Barrios, a seasoned professional whose international career journey and long-standing commitment to Talos exemplify what it means to be a modern contractor.
Grant Horsham, Tiago’s long-standing Consultant and Associate Director at Talos, sat down with Tiago to learn more about his background, his journey into contracting, and what keeps him inspired after nearly a decade with Talos.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m originally from São Paulo, Brazil. I’m 47 years old, married, and have a daughter and a stepdaughter. I began working very young – as an apprentice electrician at Ford Motor Company when I was just 14.
Over the years, I gained experience in maintenance roles across several major companies in Brazil, including Ford, Renault, Valeo, GM and Hyundai. Eventually, I moved into more technical roles, working as a PLC Programmer with Talos at Tesla, GM, Kuka, Knapp and Walbusch in the U.S., Germany and Austria.
How did you get into contracting, and what attracted you to it?
I started contracting in 2017. At the time, I was looking for a new challenge and felt ready to explore opportunities beyond Brazil. Contracting offered me that chance – not just to grow professionally but also to improve my English and experience different cultures and ways of working.
That combination of professional challenge and personal development was the perfect mix for me.
Why have you stayed in contracting rather than moving into a permanent role?
As a contractor, you’re constantly exposed to the latest technologies: new hardware, new software, new methods. We’re often the first to apply emerging automation ideas in real factory environments. Plus, there’s more flexibility. I can plan holidays and spend quality time with my loved ones, which is a big advantage.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a long-term contractor?
Being away from home can be tough. That feeling of being homesick never completely goes away, but you learn to manage it and to really cherish the time you do get with family and friends.
Visa processes can also be stressful; they’re time-consuming and expensive. That said, Talos has always supported me through it, which has made a big difference.
How many contracts have you worked on with Talos and is there one you’re particularly proud of?
I’ve worked on three contracts since I joined, and all of them have been long-term, but the BinPick application system at the GM plant in Fort Wayne is the standout for me! I was involved from the very beginning; from commissioning the system with the team to the final startup at the customer site.
We had a very tight timeline, right in the middle of the Christmas holidays, which made it extra challenging. But we pulled it off, and it was a huge success.
How has your experience with Talos been over the years?
I’m truly grateful. Working with Talos for the past eight years has meant consistency, trust, and a sense of purpose. Even in uncertain times, Talos has remained steady, always putting the wellbeing of the team first and ensuring we’re placed in roles that suit us well.
Grant has been central to this. His professionalism, empathy, and ability to align our skills and aspirations with client needs have been exceptional. He’s always fostered an environment of trust and personal growth.
Celebrating dedication
Tiago’s journey is a testament to the global possibilities that come with contracting and to the importance of strong relationships, both within teams and with clients. At Talos, we’re proud to have people like Tiago shaping the future of automation, one innovative project at a time.
Want to connect with top-tier talent like Tiago? Reach out today and Grant or one of his specialist automation colleagues will be in touch to discuss how we can move your project, and company, forward.
