Heidi Penrod

• Developed and designed finished parts and fixtures using Solidworks for multiple Aerospace companies. Complete understanding of the ITAR guidelines and staying compliant.
• Outlined key responsibilities in project management meetings.
• Developed standard naming conventions to enhance traceability of aerospace components.
• Established best practices for high quality in adherence to Aerospace guidelines.
• Develop standard naming conventions that allow for traceability.
• Review all drawings from other designers for accuracy and compliance.
• Develop fixtures to ease the machining of various Aerospace components.

• While working globally, I saw a huge need for time management and streamlining, taking it upon myself, I took on the responsibility of developing a set of standards and best practice guideline for all designers that were implemented and are currently used. I am responsible for the development and design of various types of gaskets for unique sealing areas for multiple customers using UGNX 8 thru NX2306. Coaching my team of designers in several countries to maximize their abilities while fulfilling customer and corporate deadlines.
• Developed and reviewed global design standards and best practices to ensure alignment and quality across projects.
• Ensured adherence to automotive and government quality guidelines.
• Reviewed and marked up drawings before submission to meet standards and uphold quality.
• Review all drawings from other designers for accuracy and compliance.
• Facilitated communication between the customer and the design department regarding cad deliverables.
• Author and / or co-author performance reviews of direct employees.
• Involved in the hiring process of new designers.
• Track direct employees' attendance and overall performance.
• Report to various department management leaders on the status of projects.
• Travel internationally to support both the customer and company needs.
• Assign work requests to direct employees.
• Manage and track designer workload in order to ensure customer timing is met.
• 6/2013 to 8/2025

• Developed and designed 3D end effectors and holding stations for GM while following company standards and exceeding customer quality.
• Led CAD design development for automotive components, ensuring manufacturability and design intent alignment.
• Modeled complex parts and assemblies using CATIA and NX, supporting program release requirements.
• Reviewed engineering drawings for accuracy, GD&T compliance, and downstream production readiness.

• In multiple contract positions, led senior design reviews for various components, aligning concepts with engineering and manufacturing requirements.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to refine designs, resolve technical issues, and support timely release cycles.
• Directed prototype iterations, incorporating test feedback to improve product performance and manufacturability.
• Prepared detailed design documentation, supporting clear communication across engineering and production teams.
• Mentored junior designers on CAD practices, drawing standards, and design review preparation.

• Interfaced directly with customers to address needs promptly; developed bill of materials, design failure mode and effects analysis, and design verification plans and reports, contributing to APQP and control plans.
• Supported customer application requirements for automotive safety products, ensuring compliance with design specifications and enhancing product reliability.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to resolve technical issues during product development and launch phases, facilitating timely project completion.
• Evaluated component fit, function, and packaging constraints to confirm application feasibility.
• Design and development of component and component assemblies of Seatbelts to meet customer requirements.

Fundamentals and techniques of Drafting and Mechanical Engineering.

Efficient use of time and materials, elimination of waste.