Efren Gregory Mercado
Clermont,FL
Summary
Dynamic individual with hands-on experience in manufacturing, jewelry, and music, and talent for navigating challenges. Brings strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and a results-oriented mindset.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner
Musical Instruments Solutions
01.2025 - Current
- Manage day-to-day business operations.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Implement marketing strategies to increase business awareness and attract new customers.
- Complete partial or full dismantling of brass and woodwind musical instruments to repair or replace defective components and restore functionality.
- Conduct testing and quotes to determine the root cause of customer problems and provide accurate repair recommendations.
- Reduce repeat repair rates by thoroughly testing musical instruments after repair to confirm the resolution of all issues.
- Custom work and fabrication of necessary parts and tools.
Owner
Gregory Jewelry
08.2007 - Current
- Enhanced jewelry designs by incorporating innovative techniques and materials.
- Established a loyal clientele base through consistent delivery of exquisite jewelry pieces that exceeded expectations in design and execution.
- Developed unique, high-quality jewelry pieces by mastering various crafting techniques, such as soldering, sawing, cold forging, anticlastic, and stone setting, among others.
- Assisted customers with repair inquiries by evaluating damage or wear-and-tear issues, providing accurate quotes for restoration services.
- Participated in trade shows and industry events to showcase workmanship and build brand recognition.
- Performed regular quality control checks on finished products to maintain exceptional craftsmanship standards.
- Worked with individual clients to design unique pieces, communicating effectively to establish vision and specifications.
- Fabricated pieces by hand and using specialized equipment.
- Designed and fabricated special/custom tools for high-end jewelers and recognized brands like Tiffany Co.
Owner
Taller De Artes Y Viejos Oficios
01.2017 - 06.2019
- Offered workshops and courses to train apprentices to create materials and effectively learn Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced jewelry skills and techniques.
- Courses and workshops on how to design and manufacture tools.
- Mentored junior craftsmen, sharing knowledge of specialized techniques and fostering professional growth.
- Developed strong relationships with fellow artisans and industry professionals, fostering a collaborative environment for shared learning and growth.
- Maintained equipment in good working order, completing adjustments and repairs to promote longevity.
Laboratory Technician
Universidad De Puerto Rico
06.2000 - 09.2009
- Developed the mechanical component of the Chemical Engineering PhD Program.
- Initial setup of the machine shop.
- Evaluated equipment, quotes, and materials for initial and ongoing inventory.
- Monitored inventory levels and placed orders for tooling, raw materials, and consumables to ensure uninterrupted production flow.
- Conducted routine assessments of machinery for compliance with industry regulations, as well as identifying areas of potential improvement.
- Reviewed blueprints and technical specifications to develop accurate job plans that achieved desired results.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to optimize designs for manufacturability, improving product quality and functionality.
Repair Technician
Taller Musical
05.1988 - 07.2007
- Completed partial or full dismantling of brass and woodwind musical instruments to repair or replace defective components and restore functionality.
- Consistently maintained a clean, organized, and safe work environment to ensure the efficient completion of repairs and the well-being of customers.
- Completed all repair and maintenance activities promptly and to high-quality standards.
Tool Die Maker
Wallace International (a Tiffany Co. Division)
02.1995 - 05.2000
- Contributed to successful product launches by working closely with cross-functional teams during the development process.
- Optimized machining operations using advanced techniques such as wire EDM, CNC milling, and grinding machines.
- Developed expertise in various materials properties, including steel alloys, aluminum, brass, and plastics, allowing for appropriate selection based on project requirements.
- Developed cost-effective solutions for tooling projects, optimizing materials usage while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Polished and refined tool surfaces, both flat and contoured, using abrasive stones, power grinders, and emery cloths.
- Reduced machine downtime by performing regular maintenance and repairs on die sets and equipment.
- Selected specific metals and other materials for tools depending on heat tolerance and durability, according to tool functions.
- Adjusted and ground dies, tools, and parts after production to assure quality control and usability.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Tool And Die Maker
Escuela De Troqueleria Y Herramentaje Del Caribe
Bayamon, PR08-1995
High School Diploma -
Lola Rodriguez De Tio High School
San German, PR05-1992
Skills
- Small business operations
- Customer relations
- Project management
- Service quality assurance
- Customer service
- Problem-solving abilities
- Problem-solving aptitude
- Attention to detail
- Extensive knowledge in the use of different tools, techniques, and equipment
- Bilingual (Spanish / English)
Timeline
Owner
Musical Instruments Solutions
01.2025 - Current
Owner
Taller De Artes Y Viejos Oficios
01.2017 - 06.2019
Owner
Gregory Jewelry
08.2007 - Current
Laboratory Technician
Universidad De Puerto Rico
06.2000 - 09.2009
Tool Die Maker
Wallace International (a Tiffany Co. Division)
02.1995 - 05.2000
Repair Technician
Taller Musical
05.1988 - 07.2007
Associate of Applied Science - Tool And Die Maker
Escuela De Troqueleria Y Herramentaje Del Caribe
High School Diploma -
Lola Rodriguez De Tio High School
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