Career Profile

Results-oriented Design Engineer with a passion for problem solving, innovation, and automation. Seeking a dynamic role in automation, tooling, or design engineering to leverage a comprehensive skill set and exceptional acumen spanning multiple engineering disciplines. Backed by a solid education and a track record of impactful contributions in both academic and professional settings.

Work Experience

Design Engineer

UACJ Automotive Whitehall Industries
2019 - 2021

As a Design Engineer at UACJ Automotive Whitehall Industries, I played a pivotal role in conceptualizing, designing, and implementing advanced production and prototype machines and fixtures. Leveraging my expertise in engineering and automation, I have made exceptional contributions that will enhance multiple product lifecycles. I successfully combined theoretical prowess with hands-on manufacturing skills to drive innovation and efficiency in various projects. Notable accomplishments include:

  • Pioneered Automated Bill of Materials using Visual Basic and SolidWorks API
  • Presented theoretical calculations and simulation results for proposed designs
  • Manufactured precision tooling parts via manual and CNC milling machines
  • Led end-to-end design of production/prototype machines and fixtures
  • Provided IT support and consulted fellow engineers
  • Practiced value added / value engineering (VAVE)
  • Practiced lean manufacturing

Achievements:

Streamlined full-scope CAD workflow for SolidWorks for the Tooling Department that is still in use today! Practiced safe design (zero recorded incidents), and executed good manufacturing practices. Was awarded highly dynamic projects that involved several moving parts and control elements. Designed reliable production and prototype machines/prototypes for both human-interaction, and automation applications.

  • Remedied burden of constant ECNs in automotive industry using SolidWorks API
  • Provided a shared vision between cross functional teams
  • Worked well as both an independent and as a teammate
  • Frequently completed jobs under-budget and on-time

Technologies used:

  • SolidWorks
  • FEA
  • APQP
  • Catia
  • GD&T
  • AutoCAD
  • eDrawings
  • Acrobat Adobe
  • Dies
  • Roll bending
  • Part marking
  • Design for Assembly
  • Design for Manufacturing
  • Sensors
  • Actuators
  • Vision Systems
  • Extrusion press
  • Pneumatics
  • Hydraulics
  • CMM
  • Yaskawa robot
  • Fanuc robot
  • Haas
  • Brother
  • Mazak
  • Trumpf laser
  • MS Office
  • Visual Basic for Applications

Engineering Intern (Product Launch Team)

Viant Medical
2018 - 2019

As an Engineering Intern at Viant Medicalโ€™s medical device manufacturing facility, I contributed to the seamless introduction of new products into the market by authoring comprehensive work instructions and equipment operating guidelines. My role involved meticulous adherence to quality standards and regulations, including ISO 13485. In addition, I played a key role in enhancing product development processes through innovative prototyping methods and rigorous test method validations. Key contributions include:

  • Rapid prototyping
  • Statistical analysis
  • Test method validations
  • Design of experiments
  • Technical writing
  • Critical thinking

Achievements:

As part of the medical device launch team, and in compliance with industry standard, my team and I successfully launched a novel, FDA-approved, closed system transfer device for hazardous chemotherapy drugs. I also completed Lean Academy simulations. I used scrap materials to develop a test method procedure for evaluating hypotube needle retention. Vetted PLC sequence for an in-line manufacturing cell, embodying: needle acceptance, UV adhesive operation, and subcomponent assembly.

Technologies used:

  • Tensile tester
  • Ultrasonic welder
  • Custom tooling
  • Laser welder
  • UV adhesive
  • Fanuc robot
  • Induction heating
  • Optical imaging
  • Micrometer & calipers
  • Minitab
  • MS Office

CAD Designer (Intern Technical II)

Johnson Controls / Hart & Cooley, Inc.
2017 - 2017

As an Intern Technical II at Johnson Controls / Hart & Cooley, Inc., I played a vital role in the creation and design of HVAC equipment, contributing to the companyโ€™s commitment to precision and customer satisfaction. Leveraging my skills in engineering and CAD software, I meticulously crafted both 2D and 3D models, ensuring they aligned with exact customer specifications before shipping for out-of-state assembly. Key responsibilities and achievements include:

  • Compiled / scraped data programmatically
  • Created 2D and 3D models using AutoDesk Inventor
  • Developed engineering drawings for sheet metal production
  • Aided in wireless vent toggle prototype using C programming

Achievements:

I designed flue gas exhaust systems, roof curbs, and roof accessories for the HVAC industry. Engineering drawing packets were created, reviewed, and realeased well prior to due dates. Helped design a control interface for an arduino-driven vent toggle.

Technologies used:

  • AutoDesk Inventor
  • iLogic
  • Engineering drawings
  • Sheet metal
  • Design for Assembly
  • Design for Manufacturing
  • C programming
  • Arduino
  • MS Office

Engineering Technicial (Intern)

Michigan Foam Products, Inc.
2016 - 2016

As an Engineering Technician Intern at Michigan Foam Products, Inc., I contributed significantly to the production process by employing innovative โ€˜zero-scrapโ€™ techniques and low-cost part routing to manufacture expanded polystyrene foam. My role was to route parts throughout the manufacturing plant while ensuring both efficient material removal, and assembly. Key responsibilities and achievements include:

  • Routed parts through manufacturing plant
  • Conducted time studies
  • Prepared work instructions

Achievements:

I used SolidWorks to emulate CNC programs for producing expanded polystyrene foam in a production environment while concentrating on reducing waste. Wrote preventative maintenance logs for block mold machine, steam chamber, hotwire stations, and CNC hotwire machine. Calculated process flow parameters for different jobs.

Technologies used:

  • SolidWorks
  • NiCr wire
  • CNC hotwire
  • Design for Assembly
  • Design for Manufacturing
  • Adhesives
  • Steam chamber
  • Block mold machine
  • MS Office
NR FIRST HHS
2223FRCMentor

Skills & Tools

Design

  • SolidWorks
  • AutoDesk Inventor
  • AutoCAD
  • Catia
  • eDrawings
  • Adobe Acrobat
  • OnShape
  • Fusion 360

Controls

  • FactoryTalk View ME
  • RS Logix / Studio 5000
  • Ladder Logic
  • PanelView Plus
  • Networking
  • Process Sequence Bits
  • Process Sequence Words

Soft Skills

  • Problem Solving
  • Communicating
  • Leadership
  • Mentoring
  • Adaptability
  • Critical Thinking
  • Motivated
  • Teamwork
  • Creative
  • Listening

Frontend

  • HTML/CSS/SASS
  • Redux
  • JavaScript
  • Node.js
  • React

Backend

  • Python
  • LabView
  • Java
  • Ruby
  • C
  • C++
  • Solidity
  • VBA

Others

  • Teach pendant
  • Inverse Kinematics
  • Tooling
  • LVDT
  • Transducers
  • VFD
  • Wiring
  • CAN bus
  • Encoders
  • Vision systems
  • Troubleshooting
  • Xilinx
  • Speed controllers
  • Gearboxes
  • Servos
  • Visual Studio Code
  • GMAW
  • SMAW
  • TIG welding
  • Laser welding
  • Ultrasonic welding
  • Investment casting
  • Tensile tesing
  • Pneumatics
  • Hydraulics
  • Control systems
  • Thermal systems
  • Fluid systems
  • Material science
  • Biomedical materials
  • Manual Mill
  • CNC
  • Git
  • GitHub
  • Jekyll
  • Markdown
  • Truffle
  • HardHat framework
  • Blockchain / Web3
  • Smart contracts

Education

  • B.S.E. Product Design & Manufacturing Engineering
    Grand Valley State University
    Padnos College of Engineering and Computing, ABET
    2014 - 2019
    • Materials Science
    • Biomedical Materials
    • Principles of Physics I & II
    • Lin Algebra and Diff Equas
    • Statistical Modeling for EGR
    • Materials for Energy Storage
    • Manufacturing Control Systems
    • Dynamic System Model/Control
    • Robotic Systems Engineering
    • Thermal and Fluid Systems
    • Manufacturing Processes
    • Mechanics and Machines
    • Circuit Analysis I
    • Digital Systems
  • B.S.E. Concurrent Enrollment
    Grand Rapids Community College
    2017 - 2018
  • HS Dual Enrollment
    Muskegon Community College
    2013 - 2014
  • HS Dual Enrollment
    West Shore Community College
    2012 - 2014

Interests

  • Robotics ๐Ÿฆพ
  • Botany ๐ŸŒน
  • Gardening ๐Ÿ
  • Programming ๐Ÿ’ป
  • Snowboarding ๐Ÿ‚
  • Running ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ
  • Reading ๐Ÿ“–
  • Blockchain / Web 3.0 ๐ŸŒ
  • Smart Contracts ๐Ÿ“ฑ
  • Kayaking ๐Ÿšฃโ€โ™‚๏ธ
  • Physics โš›๏ธ
  • Investing ๐Ÿ’ธ
  • Electronics ๐Ÿ“ก
  • Vintage Cars ๐Ÿš—
  • Cybersecurity ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ
  • Aritificial Intelligence ๐Ÿง 
  • Modeling & Simulation ๐Ÿ“Š

Projects

I have undertaken an array of initiatives, from coaching and mentoring a local high school's FIRSTยฎ Robotics Competition Team to providing freelance IT and engineering support to a local farmer. I have self-taught web development and financial investing fundamentals, delved into blockchain development and web3 programming, deployed smart contracts on Ethereum blockchain, and assisted in launching a family construction business. Engaging in competitive cybersecurity events and freelancing in website development have further enriched my skill set.

Automotive Design Engineering

Showcasing my work history portfolio of machines and fixtures that served to supply Tier 1 and Tier 2 parts to the automotive industry. I specilized in designing production and protype machines and fixtures for emerging electric vehicle manufacturers. Press 'View' to enter my photo gallery!

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Mechatronics

Designed and implemented a custom, three-wire safety circuit for an off-the-shelf linear actuator. Performed equipment maintenance on a diesel truck and a backhoe/loader. Troubleshooting relevant circuitry, including: fuses, wiring, rocker switches, solenoids, relays, ignition switch, thermocouple, ECU, and pressure switch. Fixed 2-stroke engine for an outboard boat motor after troubleshooting ignition system and impeller. Designed, programmed, built, tested and 'tuned' a self-balancing robot.

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Oceana County Robotics Website

A dedicated work-in-progress (CI/CD). I built a starter website to help teach high school students about web development fundamentals. Check it out!

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Local Farm Workflow Mapping

A flow diagram that served as an algorithm for a traceable and sustainable processing solution for a commerical asparagus packing plant.

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Family Construction Business

A. Rombach & Sons is a wholesome, family owned and operated company serving West Michigan's residential and commercial construction and excavating needs. Proudly serving Lake, Mason, and Oceana counties.

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Cryptocurrency Arbitrage Trading Bot

An automated trading program that uses a web3 algorithm to leverage 'flashloans.' This program autonomously analyzes price differences between different exchanges, and executes profitable trades on my behalf via smart contracts.

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Cryptocurrency Exchange Application

A decentralized app (or 'dApp') for trading permissionless cryptocurrencies on Ethereum blockchains. Personal use only: currently unavailable for public use (due to Know-Your-Customer and Anti-Money Laundering regulations, and overall legal restrictions).

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Personal Website

Personal website that embodies my digital alter-ego! Explore my trials and tribulations as a self-taught web developer as you browse through my about me, portfolio, resume, and socials. If you are feeling generous, smash the 'Buy Me a Coffee' button and support the cause! โ˜•๏ธ.

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Non-fungible Token (NFT) Powered Application for Agriculture

Currently working on a decentralized finanace (DeFi) project that exemplifies a 'farm-to-table' sales model. This application enables direct-to-consumer sales (less the fees of using credit cards). It features tokenized (fractional) ownership of a company. The proposed benefits of this dApp are sustainability/tracability of both perishable and non-perishable assets, increased liquidity, increased funding and productivity, and global market access.

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