Daniel Bridgeford
Fond du Lac,WI
Summary
Project and design leader with 8+ years of experience managing complex technical projects involving structural systems, engineering coordination, and multidisciplinary teams. Proven ability to lead projects from concept through fabrication and installation while maintaining budget, schedule, and quality targets.
Former ASME code QA/QC inspector with hands-on knowledge of industrial fabrication standards, now leading large-scale project execution nationwide. Recognized for solving complex technical challenges, coordinating diverse teams, and delivering high-profile projects in fast-paced environments.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Design Manager
Filmwerks
01.2025 - Current
- Lead the strategic direction and operational performance of the design department for a national structural fabrication company supporting major broadcast and live event productions.
- Oversee multidisciplinary teams responsible for design development, technical documentation, fabrication coordination, and installation planning. Implement workflow improvements, CAD standards, and documentation systems that support scalable project execution and high-quality deliverables.
- Completed leadership development training through Momentum Makers – The Professional Skills Series, focused on leadership effectiveness, communication, and professional development.
Account Executive
01.2024 - 01.2025
- Managed key client relationships and supported business development efforts by defining project scope, preparing proposals, and identifying opportunities to expand project value.
- Conducted site surveys and provided technical consultation to translate client concepts into practical structural solutions. Acted as a liaison between clients and internal leadership, ensuring clear communication of project requirements across design, production, and operations teams.
Project Manager
01.2019 - 01.2024
- Managed full lifecycle execution of structural and broadcast infrastructure projects across the United States with project values ranging from $100K – $1.5M.
- Responsibilities included project estimating, design development, engineering coordination, fabrication planning, procurement, scheduling, logistics coordination, and onsite construction management.
- Produced the majority of project design and drafting packages using SketchUp and LayOut while coordinating engineering approvals, permitting requirements, and fabrication timelines.
- Directed field installations crews, including Filmwerks staff, subcontractors and locally sourced labor, while maintaining project budgets, schedules, and client expectations.
Owner / Fabricator
Blackjack Industrial Designs
01.2017 - 03.2023
- Founded and operated a custom fabrication business specializing in wood, metal, and mixed-material installations.
- Managed all aspects of project delivery including client consultation, design, fabrication, installation, estimating, and financial management.
Field Operations Manager
ModTruss Inc.
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Managed project logistics, structural modeling, and installation planning for modular truss systems.
- Produced project models and fabrication drawings while coordinating labor, equipment, travel logistics, and build schedules.
Quality Control Welding Inspector
J. F. Ahern Co.
01.2012 - 01.2018
- Ensured fabrication quality and compliance with ASME codes for industrial piping systems. Conducted weld inspections, hydrostatic testing observation, and nondestructive testing coordination.
- Qualified welding procedures and personnel while supporting annual ASME audits and internal quality assurance programs.
- Recognized as an Ahern Hidden Hero for contributions to implementing new bioprocessing equipment inspection procedures that expanded company capabilities.
Education
High School Diploma -
Fond Du Lac High School
Fond Du Lac, WI06-2009
Skills
- SketchUp, LayOut, and CAD Documentation
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Engineering Interpretation
- Quality Assurance & Code Compliance
- Project Scheduling & Coordination
- Strategic thinking
- Account management
- Stakeholder and client management
- Project lifecycle management
- Cross-functional leadership
- Process improvement and operational efficiency
Websites
Accomplishments
- Led complex national and international projects valued up to $1.5M, directing field teams of up to 30 personnel.
- Promoted to Senior Design Manager to lead the design department and support strategic growth through improved design workflows and team leadership.
- Delivered infrastructure for globally recognized productions/events including (Super Bowls, FIFA, MLB (2 Emmy award winning productions), Formula 1 Miami, and many others.
- Owned the entire project lifecycle including estimating, design, budget, and execution.
- Recognized as an Ahern Hidden Hero for contributions to implementing new bioprocessing equipment inspection procedures that expanded company capabilities.
Certification
- ASME BPV Code Section IX Certification
- ASNT Level II – Nondestructive Testing
Birring NDE Center – Webster, TX - OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification
Timeline
Senior Design Manager
Filmwerks
01.2025 - Current
Account Executive
01.2024 - 01.2025
Project Manager
01.2019 - 01.2024
Field Operations Manager
ModTruss Inc.
01.2018 - 01.2019
Owner / Fabricator
Blackjack Industrial Designs
01.2017 - 03.2023
Quality Control Welding Inspector
J. F. Ahern Co.
01.2012 - 01.2018
High School Diploma -
Fond Du Lac High School