Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Professional Project Experience
Leadership and Involvement
Certification
Timeline
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Atusunje Farai Kawatira

Atusunje Farai Kawatira

Austin,TX

Summary

Results-driven professional with a unique blend of expertise in engineering, finance, and leadership. Proven track record in equipment engineering, controls engineering, and project management, with a commitment to driving operational excellence and delivering impactful results.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Senior Equipment Engineer (Cyber Truck)

Tesla Inc
09.2022 - 04.2024
  • Spearheaded comprehensive equipment upgrade projects, focusing on serviceability, reliability, and process capability enhancements. Ensured seamless integration of new systems, resulting in optimized performance and increased operational efficiency. Implemented advanced technologies and innovative solutions to meet evolving industry standards and customer requirements.
  • Managed aspects of robotics and controls-related operations, ensuring smooth functioning and adherence to stringent performance standards and safety protocols. Supervised the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automated systems, resulting in improved accuracy, productivity, and safety across the production line.
  • Created and disseminated comprehensive training materials, maintenance protocols, service bulletins, and detailed equipment documentation. Empowered staff with the knowledge and resources necessary for efficient operations and maintenance, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development. Conducted training sessions and workshops to ensure thorough understanding and effective implementation of best practices.
  • Acted as a subject matter expert in equipment-related processes, leading continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and minimizing downtime. Conducted thorough troubleshooting and root cause analyses to identify and address underlying issues. Implemented corrective actions and preventive measures, resulting in significant improvements in system reliability and performance. Fostered a proactive approach to problem-solving and process optimization, driving sustained improvements and cost savings.

Controls Engineer

Matthews Automation Solutions
01.2022 - 09.2022
  • Collaborated closely with customers and implementers to facilitate on-site activities, ensuring seamless project execution and client satisfaction
  • Orchestrated effective communication and coordination between mechanical and electrical installers, fostering synergy to streamline installation processes and meet project timelines
  • Developed and implemented PLC code, conducted HMI development, and rigorously verified functionality to optimize equipment operations and enhance system performance
  • Conducted thorough I/O checkout and wiring verification processes, ensuring precision and reliability in equipment installations and configurations.

Automation Engineer

Kautex Textron
06.2018 - 01.2022
  • Directed and supported large-scale projects spanning nine production lines, focusing on enhancing system reliability, upgrading technology, and reducing production costs, driving continuous improvement initiatives to achieve organizational objectives
  • Provided technical assistance to PLC technicians in troubleshooting robots, welders, and other equipment, contributing to swift issue resolution and minimizing disruptions to production processes
  • Demonstrated expertise in supporting advanced technologies such as the Keyence vision system, Banner vibration system, and VMT Camera Technology, ensuring optimal performance and reliability of critical systems.

Accountant

Premium Tama Tobacco Limited
01.2009 - 12.2012
  • Managed financial reporting processes, preparing accurate financial statements for external auditors, and facilitating timely tax filings, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements
  • Conducted comprehensive inspections of account books to ensure efficiency and accuracy, implementing measures to enhance financial transparency and accountability
  • Streamlined salary processes for the company's executive team, optimizing payroll procedures to ensure accuracy and timeliness
  • Established effective communication channels with suppliers to address payment and supply inquiries promptly, fostering strong relationships and ensuring smooth procurement processes.

Education

Master of Business Administration - Finance & Business Analytics

Purdue University
Fort Wayne, IN
05.2020

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology -

Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN
05.2018

Certified Accounting Technician -

Association of Certified Chartered Accountants
Glasgow, U.K.
12.2008

Skills

  • System and Equipment Troubleshooting
  • SCADA Development
  • Problem-Solving
  • Team Collaboration
  • Automation
  • Project Management
  • Continuous and Process Improvement
  • Ladder Logic Programming
  • Robotics Programming

Professional Project Experience

  • Tesla Inc, Austin, TX, 09/2022, 04/2024, Facilitated the seamless integration of user-friendly access buttons into the Human-Machine Interface (HMI), enhancing control over clamp sequences for increased operational efficiency., Devised and executed Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) logic to accurately tally weld counts, enabling the establishment of optimal preventive maintenance schedules for enhanced equipment reliability and longevity., Actively spearheading the integration of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for the Cyber Truck project, leveraging expertise to ensure robust monitoring and control functionalities for streamlined operations., Engaged in a collaborative effort with contractors to refine part manager logic, optimizing inventory management processes and bolstering overall workflow efficiency.
  • Matthews Automation Solutions, Cincinnati, OH, 01/2022, 09/2022, Pioneered the design and development of Graphic Display Units utilizing FactoryTalk Studio, enhancing operational visibility and efficiency for FedEx Grounds' Columbus facility., Orchestrated seamless system upgrades for prominent retailers including TJMaxx in New York, Macy's in West Virginia, and Advance Auto Parts in California, ensuring uninterrupted operations and improved performance.
  • Kautex, Avilla, IN, 01/2019, 03/2020, Collaborated closely with PLC engineers to program and install state-of-the-art tank laser etching equipment, contributing to enhanced manufacturing precision and efficiency across nine installations., Led the strategic implementation of motor vibration sensors throughout the plant, facilitating real-time fault tracking and proactive maintenance initiatives to optimize equipment reliability and performance., Spearheaded the research, installation, and oversight of Zero Down Time (ZDT) applications on production robots, pioneering innovative solutions to minimize downtime and maximize productivity in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Leadership and Involvement

  • Housing Investment & Development Cooperative of Malawi, Homeowners Association President, Malawi, 08/2020, 12/2021, Played an integral role in drafting and implementing the bylaws and house plans for the HIDCOVILLE neighborhood Homeowners Association, ensuring regulatory compliance and community cohesion.
  • Habitat for Humanity, Volunteer, Fort Wayne, Indiana, 07/2018, 03/2021, Contributed expertise and labor to Habitat for Humanity initiatives, actively participating in electrical and construction tasks vital to the organization's mission of providing safe and affordable housing to communities in need.
  • Purdue Mechatronics, Vice President, Purdue University, Indiana, 01/2017, 12/2017, Delivered engaging electronics courses tailored to club members with diverse academic backgrounds, bridging technical knowledge gaps and empowering learners to excel in their projects., Facilitated collaborative efforts among students, fostering teamwork in the development of innovative robotic, mechatronics, and IoT projects, nurturing a culture of creativity and problem-solving.
  • Peace Corps, Volunteer, Lilongwe, Malawi, 05/2008, 09/2009, Provided comprehensive mentorship to four high school seniors, offering academic support in math, science, and English, ultimately guiding them to successful college admissions and academic achievement.

Certification

Fanuc Advanced TPP Programming

Siemens TIAPortal Programming

KUKA Robots Programmig

Timeline

Senior Equipment Engineer (Cyber Truck)

Tesla Inc
09.2022 - 04.2024

Controls Engineer

Matthews Automation Solutions
01.2022 - 09.2022

Automation Engineer

Kautex Textron
06.2018 - 01.2022

Accountant

Premium Tama Tobacco Limited
01.2009 - 12.2012

Master of Business Administration - Finance & Business Analytics

Purdue University

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology -

Purdue University

Certified Accounting Technician -

Association of Certified Chartered Accountants
Atusunje Farai Kawatira