Brian Schwandner
Grandville,MI
Summary
Dynamic CNC Team Lead at Howard Miller with expertise in CNC mill programming and machine setup. Proven track record in optimizing workflows, enhancing efficiency, and implementing quality control measures, resulting in reduced defects. Strong collaborator and mentor, fostering team development while driving continuous improvement initiatives. Committed to delivering precision and excellence in manufacturing processes.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
CNC Team Lead
Howard Miller
01.2024 - Current
- Led CNC team in executing production schedules, ensuring timely completion of projects.
- Trained and mentored new operators on CNC programming and machine setup procedures.
- Optimized workflow processes to enhance efficiency and reduce downtime across operations.
- Implemented quality control measures, resulting in consistent product standards and reduced defects.
- Collaborated with engineering to refine designs for manufacturability, improving production output.
- Analyzed production data to identify trends and recommend process improvements for increased productivity.
- Collaborated closely with engineering teams to troubleshoot issues quickly, minimizing disruption to production schedules.
- Managed multiple high-priority tasks, ensuring deadlines were met consistently.
CNC Programmer
Howard Miller
06.2023 - Current
- Programmed CNC machines to produce precision components for various projects.
- Interpreted technical drawings and specifications to ensure accurate machining operations.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to optimize machining processes and reduce waste.
- Assisted in troubleshooting machine malfunctions, improving downtime response times.
- Maintained organized library of CNC programs, ensuring version control and easy access for all team members involved in the production process.
- Designed work paths for custom projects, selecting appropriate parameters for speed, feed rates and tool selection.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to design and implement efficient manufacturing processes for new products.
- Optimized existing programs for better performance while maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines.
- Inspected finished products to verify compliance with production tolerances.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives by actively participating in process review meetings, offering valuable insights based on hands-on experience with CNC programming tasks.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to design and execute precise CNC programs for new product prototypes.
- Optimized tool paths to improve surface finish and dimensional accuracy, resulting in higher client satisfaction.
- Collaborated with engineering team to optimize CNC machining processes.
CNC Setup Specialist
Howard Miller
02.2019 - Current
- Set up CNC machines according to specifications, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to interpret blueprints and adjust machine settings for precision.
- Troubleshoot machinery issues promptly, reducing potential production delays and maintaining workflow efficiency.
- Train new operators on CNC setup procedures, fostering skill development and adherence to safety protocols.
- Monitor production processes closely, implementing adjustments as needed to meet quality standards consistently.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, contributing insights to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.
- Contributed towards cost reduction initiatives by evaluating existing setups and proposing alternative methods or tools that would lead to increased savings without compromising on quality.
- Ensured adherence to safety protocols, maintaining a clean and organized workspace at all times.
- Collaborated with quality control team members to identify areas of improvement in manufacturing processes.
- Assisted with employee training on proper CNC setup procedures, leading to a more knowledgeable workforce.
- Managed inventory of tools, fixtures, and replacement parts needed for smooth execution of daily tasks.
- Utilized calipers and other measuring tools to increase accuracy of parts.
- Trained and coached new team members on proper machine set-up procedures.
- Assisted other machinists with set-up and troubleshooting of CNC machines.
- Inspected parts to meet customer specifications and quality standards.
- Completed manual adjustments and tooling changes in absence of automatic programming.
- Measured completed pieces to identify product irregularities and specifications non-conformance; adjusting machines to correct issues.
- Moved finished work to correct staging area for disposition.
- Instructed new employees on operation of CNC machines.
- Collaborated with other departments to meet customer requirements.
CNC Operator
Howard Miller
05.2013 - Current
- Operated CNC machines to produce precision parts according to specifications.
- Monitored and adjusted machine settings for optimal performance and accuracy.
- Conducted routine maintenance checks to ensure equipment reliability and safety.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to troubleshoot and resolve production issues.
Machine Operator
Howard Miller
07.2004 - Current
- Operated machinery to ensure efficient production and adherence to safety protocols.
- Monitored equipment performance, identifying issues and implementing corrective actions swiftly.
- Trained new operators on machinery usage, safety procedures, and workflow efficiency.
- Conducted routine maintenance checks to optimize machine functionality and reduce downtime.
- Operated various types of machinery, contributing to the successful completion of diverse projects.
- Set up and ran machinery to produce exceptional products for industrial needs.
- Streamlined workflow by maintaining a clean and organized workstation, adhering to safety protocols.
- Monitored machines during operation to detect sounds of malfunction or excessive vibration and adjusted machines to eliminate problems.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize production processes and improve overall performance.
- Maintained open communication lines with supervisors regarding project status updates, potential delays, or any concerns affecting production timelines.
- Followed detailed instructions to operate machines with accuracy and produce quality products.
- Set up and adjusted equipment and properly configured machines for daily operation.
- Loaded raw materials into machines and unloaded finished products to keep manufacturing process running smoothly.
- Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning how to operate new machinery and implementing newly introduced processes within the production environment.
- Reduced downtime by conducting regular equipment inspections and identifying necessary repairs.
- Adhered to strict quality control measures, guaranteeing consistent product output that met or exceeded customer expectations.
- Provided feedback on equipment performance issues, enabling engineers to develop effective solutions for recurring problems.
- Participated in cross-functional teams focused on achieving company-wide goals related to safety, quality, and productivity improvements.
- Managed inventory levels by tracking material usage and coordinating timely replenishment orders with suppliers.
Education
Mastercam University
Online Grandville High School
Grandville, MI05.2002
Skills
- CNC programming
- Machine setup
- Fast learner
- Attention to detail
- Precision measurement
- Blueprint reading
- Setting up machines
Additional Information
References
John Taylor: Howard Miller plant manager
(616) 334-5911
Ken Mast: Howard Miller supervisor
(616) 836-2041
Chris Vogel: Howard Miller supervisor
(616) 460-3291
Referred by Casey Harrington
Timeline
CNC Team Lead
Howard Miller
01.2024 - Current
CNC Programmer
Howard Miller
06.2023 - Current
CNC Setup Specialist
Howard Miller
02.2019 - Current
CNC Operator
Howard Miller
05.2013 - Current
Machine Operator
Howard Miller
07.2004 - Current
Mastercam University
Grandville High School
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