Derek Lofton
Oklahoma City,United States
Summary
Fabrication Technician specializing in custom aluminum and steel components, skilled in CNC machining, welding techniques, and LED installations to ensure precision and quality. Over 7 years of experience in media production and digital content editing, effectively integrating technical skills with creative processes. Proven track record of enhancing project outcomes through innovative solutions and meticulous attention to detail. Committed to driving excellence in every task and consistently exceeding expectations in fast-paced environments.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Fabrication Technician
Signs And Wonders
United States
07.2025 - Current
- Fabricated custom aluminum and steel components for signage projects adhering to CAD design specifications, including CNC machines and welding tools.
- Configured and connected LED systems and transformers for custom illuminated signs, ensuring optimal functionality and compliance with safety standards.
- Applied vinyl graphics, paint, and reflective sheeting to custom signage, performing detailed inspections to ensure adherence to durability standards and project specifications using industry-standard testing methods.
- Fabricated signage components from blueprints and shop drawings, adhering to work orders and meeting project timelines.
- Executed precise operations on CNC routers, saws, welding equipment, shears, and power tools for high-quality sign fabrication.
- Maintained a clean workspace and calibrated and repaired fabrication equipment, including saws and drills, to ensure optimal performance.
Content Director
LoftonMedia
08.2014 - Current
- Lead videographer/editor on major campaigns and initiatives with little direct supervision.
- Edited 30+ video and audio projects to meet client specifications and deadlines, ensuring adherence to project budgets.
- Produced compelling video segments from raw footage and interviews for digital platforms, enhancing storytelling and audience engagement.
Fabrication Technician
Rebel Sign Company, LLC
06.2024 - 07.2025
- Fabricate, cut, route, engrave, shape, trim, and finish signs on a large variety of substrates.
Digital Media Coordinator
MECU
United States
07.2022 - 11.2022
- Direct and produces all multimedia content, including photography, videography, audio, motion graphics, and animation for all credit union promotions, advertising, social media, and internal materials.
- Develop, propose, and implement strategic projects designed to meet the Credit Union's short and long-term marketing objectives.
- Conduct market research and recommendations for new products/services or product/service modifications and improvement.
Photojournalist
KFOR Oklahoma's News 4
09.2019 - 07.2022
- Shoot and edit high-quality, national-level content for use on television and on-line.
- Enhance storytelling through the deliberate use of compelling images, natural sound, and engaging graphics.
- Collaborate with a variety of reporters and producers to ensure the best content is collected with the main focus on accuracy and creativity.
- Operation of camera, live truck, and edit non-liner and/or live events.
- Coordinate and organize all visual elements needed for editing.
- Respond quickly to breaking news while taking direction and interacting with the assignment desk, reporters/anchors, production, control room, and appropriate personnel.
Sous Chef
The Rabbit Hole
Colorado Springs, Colorado
11.2017 - 06.2019
- Utilized my skills as an effective and articulate communicator to create a efficient and effective well operated kitchen, even under stressful conditions.
- Ensured the quality and safety of all food leaving the kitchen.
- Maintained an exceptionally clean, well stocked, and organized kitchen.
- Hired and trained new team members.
- Promoted the importance of a great customer experience while developing team members.
- Developed a strong team dynamic between the back of the house and the front of house.
- Maintained and operated all kitchen equipment including the grill, fryer, did prep, etc.
- Offered backup to all parties so that every person was able to perform their job to best of their capability.
Education
No Degree - Welding
Eastern Oklahoma County Technology Center
04-2023
Associate of Arts - Cinematography and Film/Video Production
Moore Norman Technology Center
12-2016
High School Diploma -
Moore High School
12-2009
Skills
- Video Production
- Video Editing
- Adobe Photoshop
- Final Cut Pro
- Film Production
- Maintenance & Repair
- Photography
- Leadership
- Welding
- MIG Welding
- Project Management
- Metal Fabrication
- Hand and power tools
- Manufacturing experience
Certification
- Certified Welder (CW)
- Avid Media Composer
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178
- OSHA 10
Timeline
Fabrication Technician
Signs And Wonders
07.2025 - Current
Fabrication Technician
Rebel Sign Company, LLC
06.2024 - 07.2025
Digital Media Coordinator
MECU
07.2022 - 11.2022
Photojournalist
KFOR Oklahoma's News 4
09.2019 - 07.2022
Sous Chef
The Rabbit Hole
11.2017 - 06.2019
Content Director
LoftonMedia
08.2014 - Current
No Degree - Welding
Eastern Oklahoma County Technology Center
Associate of Arts - Cinematography and Film/Video Production
Moore Norman Technology Center
High School Diploma -
Moore High School