Professional Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline

AUSTIN NIELSEN

3M/Solventum
Eugene,OR
34
years of professional experience

Lean manufacturing professional with experience in optimizing production processes and driving continuous improvement. Skilled in implementing Lean methodologies, enhancing operational efficiency, and reducing waste. Strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results, adaptable to changing needs. Renowned for effective problem-solving, leadership, and fostering culture of excellence.

Work History

Operations Production Lead

10 Years 9 Months
3M/Solventum | 01.2016 - Current
  • Assist in the Supervision and support the Tape slitting department and its three separate divisions. (33 different machines and up to 62 people at a time)
  • Ensure that all aspects of company and sitewide Safety requirements are being followed, and take immediate action when they aren't. Explore and facilitate ways for new ideas for safety to be implemented.
  • Assure Quality Control standards are being followed and are being correctly documented.
  • Engage and Lead in Lean and 5S activities to enhance productivity and streamline operations
  • Facilitate daily Tier meetings to keep teams up to date on all aspects pertaining to recent and future production operations.
  • Analyze existing processes to identify opportunities for optimization, recommending changes that can lead to significant cost savings and improved efficiency.
  • Collect, analyze, and organize data pertaining to Production. Output, Input, Quality control, Mechanical issues, Staffing issues, etc...
  • Develop standard operating procedures to maintain consistency across shifts and improve overall performance.
  • Develop and maintain strong rapport with team members while consistently demonstrating leadership to foster a collaborative and productive work environment.

Machine Operator

8 Years
3M/Solventum | 01.2008 - 01.2016
  • Operated various machines throughout the plant over the 8 year period becoming one of the go-to experts when other operators would need help. This expertise carried through to the leadership role that followed.
  • Pioneered the qualification to operate machines as one of the first manpower employees upon full-time hire. I was seen as the most likely candidate due to my quick understanding of the machining process.
  • Was chosen as an outstanding operator involved in the creation of new machines and was consulted on multiple aspects when new machines were being developed.
  • Participated in cross-functional teams focused on achieving company-wide goals related to safety, quality, and productivity improvements.

Furniture Department Manager

3 Years
Wal-Mart | 01.2004 - 01.2007
  • Managed inventory and set up displays, overseeing associates within the Furniture department

Dairy Department Manager

3 Years
Wal-Mart | 01.2004 - 01.2007
  • Directed inventory management, display setup, and team oversight in the Dairy department

Tire Lube Express Associate

3 Years
Wal-Mart | 01.2004 - 01.2007
  • Performed light mechanical work, including oil changes, battery checks, and tire maintenance

Journeyman Carpenter

12 Years
Nielsen Carpentry | 01.1993 - 01.2005
  • Collaborated with a small team to construct and maintain homes, supervising and directing workers on larger jobs when necessary.
  • Demonstrated versatility as a journeyman carpenter with experience in both rough framing and finish work across diverse construction environments.
  • Mentored apprentice carpenters, providing guidance on best practices for improved skill development and work efficiency.

Assembly Worker

1 Year
Daktronics | 01.2002 - 01.2003
  • Assisted in the manufacturing of video products and touchpads, ensuring quality in assembly processes.
  • Collaborated with team members to meet production goals and maintain a safe, clean work environment.

Education

High School Diploma - Major Graphic Design with a Minor in Business Management

South Dakota State University | Brookings, SD | 05-2005

- Major Graphic Design with a Minor in Business Management

Saint Cloud State University | Saint Cloud, MN | 05-2001

High School Diploma

Lake Benton High School | Lake Benton, MN | 06-2000

Skills

Staff Supervision
Workplace Safety and Compliance
Quality Control and Compliance
Adherence to State/Federal Regulatory Standards and Company GMPs
Lean and 5S project coordination. Including
but not limited to: Kaizens
Continuous Improvement initiatives (5S) and monitoring for consistency and upkeep
Tier Meetings and organization.
Production output data analysis and organization.
Inventory monitoring: Consumption data analysis and reconciling with output data
Employee training
Daily reporting
Shift and Team leadership

Timeline

Operations Production Lead

3M/Solventum
01.2016 - CurrentRead More

Machine Operator

3M/Solventum
01.2008 - 01.2016Read More

Furniture Department Manager

Wal-Mart
01.2004 - 01.2007Read More

Dairy Department Manager

Wal-Mart
01.2004 - 01.2007Read More

Tire Lube Express Associate

Wal-Mart
01.2004 - 01.2007Read More

Assembly Worker

Daktronics
01.2002 - 01.2003Read More

Journeyman Carpenter

Nielsen Carpentry
01.1993 - 01.2005Read More

Lake Benton High School

High School Diploma
Read More

Saint Cloud State University

from Major Graphic Design with a Minor in Business Management
Read More

South Dakota State University

High School Diploma from Major Graphic Design with a Minor in Business Management
Read More
AUSTIN NIELSEN