Craig Leighton
Aurora
Summary
Dynamic CAD Manager with expertise in leading design teams and streamlining processes. Proven ability to enhance quality control and foster collaboration, driving significant project turnaround improvements.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
CAD Manager
Salco Products Inc.
Lemont, IL
01.1999 - 08.2025
- Led CAD team in developing innovative design solutions for product enhancements.
- Streamlined design processes, reducing project turnaround time significantly.
- Mentored junior designers, fostering skill development and teamwork.
- Implemented quality control strategies to ensure accuracy in technical drawings.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align design goals with production capabilities.
- Managed CAD software updates and integration, enhancing system performance and user experience.
- Conducted training sessions on best practices for CAD tools and methodologies.
- Developed comprehensive documentation standards for design projects, improving knowledge retention and accessibility.
- Implemented drafting standards and coordinated software and hardware upgrades.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of relevant industry advancements, incorporating new technologies into existing workflows as appropriate.
CAD Drafter
Seal Master
Aurora, IL
01.1996 - 11.1998
- Developed detailed CAD drawings for new product designs to enhance manufacturing efficiency.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to ensure design accuracy and compliance with specifications.
- Utilized AutoCAD and SolidWorks for creating 3D models and technical documentation.
- Reviewed and revised existing drawings to improve functionality and reduce production errors.
Education
High School Diploma -
Waubonsee Community College
Sugar Grove, ILSkills
- Time management capabilities
- Quality control processes
- Continuous improvement mindset
- Data management expertise
- Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing
- Change management
- 3D modeling proficiency
- Advanced drafting skills
- CAD library management
- Drawing template creation
- Teamwork and collaboration
Accomplishments
- Supervised team of 4 staff members.
Timeline
CAD Manager
Salco Products Inc.
01.1999 - 08.2025
CAD Drafter
Seal Master
01.1996 - 11.1998
High School Diploma -
Waubonsee Community College