Derek Opblinger
Sylvania,OH
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in program management, global quality, and plant manufacturing quality and engineering. Demonstrated expertise in developing and optimizing quality systems, leading cross-functional teams, and implementing impactful process improvements. A robust background in vehicle launches, supplier operations, and international markets enhances my ability to drive effective initiatives. I am Committed to driving sustainable quality improvements to our vehicle lines that improve the experience for our customers and drives profitability and market share for the corporation.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
PROGRAM TECHNICAL SPECIALIST LEAD
Stellantis
Auburn Hills, MI
01.2026 - Current
- Directed efforts to revitalize retrofit program, ensuring overdue projects were resolved and processes were clearly defined.
- Managed and evaluated performance of technical specialists to ensure alignment with project objectives.
- Facilitated process alignment and standardization for technical specialists, ensuring consistent practices
- Supported development and deployment of new engineering and management tools to improve efficiency.
- Assisted in resolving technical issues by collaborating with tech managers and PMO technical leaders. Coordinated communication between teams to facilitate problem-solving.
North America Race Lead
Stellantis
Auburn Hills
01.2024 - 12.2026
- Identified obstacles and communicated significant quality concerns to RACE governance to facilitate swift action.
- Analyzed and prioritized design issues with significant customer impact to prepare nominations for process consideration.
- Led comprehensive process training sessions for issue champions.
- Work with Meta Functions to ensure adequate Champions are nominated and trained, and for complex issues, that all key contributors are identified and engaged.
PQE Lead- BCI
Stellantis
Toledo
03.2022 - 12.2023
- Oversaw daily operations and task delegation for team of four salary engineers.
- Serve as the plant key point of contact for all China, MEA, and EE issues and warranty tables.
- Present finished and ongoing projects to senior leadership.
- Lead the implementation of Product/Process Changes through Risk Assessment and station readiness activities.
- Collaborate and lead internal and external resources with both reactive and proactive process improvements.
- Drive problem solving on complex issues related to both internal and external signature.
Plant Quality Engineer
Stellantis
Toledo
08.2015 - 03.2022
- Key member of multiple launches. Including Jeep Gladiator, Wrangler PHEV, Wrangler 392 (FEW Lead), Wrangler 24 MCA.
- Lead projects and held positions in multiple meta functions including Interior, BSR, STE, VCP, Body, HVAC, Restraints, and Powertrain.
- Managed supplier table program launch for JT, facilitating skill development and process understanding among new engineering team members.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
The University of Toledo
Toledo, OH01-2014
Skills
- GIMs/Sirius
- Palantir
- Quantic
- RSU / Qdapis
- International Market Experience
- QA Network
- FEW/Vehicle Launches
- DVx
- SCA / Deferrals
- Teamcenter/NX
- STV
- WebCN
- EBOM
- PDP
- Retrofit
Websites
Timeline
PROGRAM TECHNICAL SPECIALIST LEAD
Stellantis
01.2026 - Current
North America Race Lead
Stellantis
01.2024 - 12.2026
PQE Lead- BCI
Stellantis
03.2022 - 12.2023
Plant Quality Engineer
Stellantis
08.2015 - 03.2022
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
The University of Toledo