DANE BILLUPS
Wichita,KS
Summary
Engineering Test Lab and Compliance Manager driven by performance and results. Throughout my career, I have always strived to find a way to do it better, faster, or more efficiently. An example of this would be ideating and executing a workflow within our PLM software to streamline the test request/test report process. Additionally, as a leader I work closely with those who need it to improve their abilities through coaching and mentoring. Organized multi-tasker effectively managing multiple projects simultaneously in fast-paced environments.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Research Engineer (Mechanical)
National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) - Environmental Test Lab (Mechanical)
Wichita, KS
01.2024 - Current
- Performed structural fatigue testing via shaker on propellers for OEM manufacturer
- Wires up customer applied strain gauges for data acquisition
- Collected and processed engineering test data
- Generated test reports
- Created automation program using LabVIEW to automate test profile and wired up Daq/automation equipment
- Designed testing equipment as well as working on developing/improving new and existing test stands
- Perform tests to DO-160G standards.
Engineering Testing and Safety Compliance Manager
STANLEY BLACK & DECKER OUTDOOR
Hesston, KS
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Spearheaded multiple small teams (8-12 employees in total), ranging from Senior Engineer to Field Operators in the Engineering Test Lab, Field Test environment, and Safety Compliance
- Managed Engineering Projects (Product Development testing, and Capitol Projects) through completion
- Oversaw resources (financial, staffing, supplies/equipment) to complete tasks according to timeline/budget
- Reviewed all completed test reports for errors and clarity
- Coached team members on methods and best practices
- Communicated with other Engineering managers/leadership discussing testing results and planning
- Collaborated with off-site internal and external groups where testing or certification was outsourced
- Performed employee reviews, hiring, and disciplinary actions as required
- Ensured products met ANSI and ISO safety compliance regulations
- Ideated and implemented a test request/report workflow within the company’s PLM software to streamline the test requesting/reporting and overall documentation process.
Project Test Engineer/Senior Test Engineer
EXCEL INDUSTRIES
Hesston, KS
01.2015 - 01.2022
- Developed automation programs (LabVIEW) for automated testing
- Performed FEA stress and modal analysis in ANSYS to find high stress locations and resonant structure frequencies
- Generated fatigue life estimations from strain gauge data
- Completed vibration analysis in the form of PSD and Waterfall analysis
- Developed best practices and procedures for common testing and analysis performed within the lab
- Coached younger or less experienced Engineers and lab Technicians
- Oversaw ANSI and ISO compliance standards testing.
Test Engineer CO-OP
CASE NEW HOLLAND
Hesston, KS
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Worked within the Structural Test Group and generated test reports for the New Product Development team
- Instrumented equipment with strain gauges for stress and fatigue analysis and performed fatigue analysis.
Service Advising with various Automotive Dealerships
01.2005 - 01.2010
- Headed a team of 3-5 mechanics completing maintenance and repair of customer and internal vehicles
- Communicated with customers and discussed necessary repairs and maintenance needed for their vehicles
- Scheduled and sold maintenance and repair
- Maintained high Customer Service Index scores via manufacturer surveys.
Education
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE, Mechanical Engineering -
Wichita State University
Skills
- Team Leadership
- Troubleshooting
- Innovative Solutions
- Test Method Development
- Process Development
- Design and Manufacturing
- LABView
- Siemens Test Lab/Test Xpress
- ANSYS
- Somat TCE/Infield CREO
- Parametric
- Windchill
- NCode Glyphworks
- Microsoft Suite
- Cost Reduction
- Written/Verbal Communication
- Analytical test methods
- Data Analysis
Timeline
Senior Research Engineer (Mechanical)
National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) - Environmental Test Lab (Mechanical)
01.2024 - Current
Engineering Testing and Safety Compliance Manager
STANLEY BLACK & DECKER OUTDOOR
01.2022 - 01.2023
Project Test Engineer/Senior Test Engineer
EXCEL INDUSTRIES
01.2015 - 01.2022
Test Engineer CO-OP
CASE NEW HOLLAND
01.2012 - 01.2015
Service Advising with various Automotive Dealerships
01.2005 - 01.2010
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE, Mechanical Engineering -
Wichita State University
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