Herbert Blanco
Operations Leader, Self-Driving Vehicle Operations
Austin
Summary
Dynamic operations leader with over 25 years of experience in cross-functional management, process optimization, and technology integration. A proven track record in leading high-performing teams, scaling operational efficiency, and fostering innovative solutions. Hands-on experience with autonomous vehicles including Tesla's FSD, Cruise, and Waymo. Adept at bridging operations with technical development to support rapid growth environments. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
4
4
Certifications
2
2
Languages
Work History
Autonomous Vehicle Testing & UX Contributor
01.2022 - Current
- Daily user of Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta in urban and highway environments; submitted over 100 issue reports through Tesla’s in-car incident system to support model improvement.
- Participated in Cruise and Waymo early access programs in Austin; evaluated ride performance, safety behavior, and UX across various conditions, submitting in-app feedback during beta rollout.
- Over 100 rides, 194 miles, and 888 minutes of interaction with Waymo AV.
- Informally benchmarked AV systems for responsiveness, navigation quality, and UX consistency, supporting personal insights into comparative system strengths and failure modes.
Owner & Operations Manager
TapSnap Central Texas
01.2015 - Current
- Built and scaled a successful event technology business, servicing major clients like HEB, University of Texas at Austin, UTSA, Austin FC, St. Davids Healthcare, and Comcast.
- Implemented lean and continuous improvement methodologies to enhance service delivery and profit margins.
- Managed full-cycle operations including logistics, team supervision, sales strategy, and client relations.
- Launched green screen innovations and photo technology initiatives to drive engagement.
Operations Manager – JIT Plant (Seats & Overhead Components)
Johnson Controls
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Directed a cross-functional team of 20+ salaried staff—including engineering, HR, safety, maintenance, production supervisors, and over 140 operators—driving plant efficiency, regulatory compliance, and team development.
- Led day-to-day operations for a just-in-time automotive interior plant serving Toyota’s Tundra and Tacoma platform.
- Collaborated cross-functionally to ensure timely delivery, cost savings, and high quality.
Quality Engineer – Tacoma & Tundra Interiors
Johnson Controls
01.2010 - 01.2012
- Conducted audits, root cause analysis, and implemented corrective actions.
- Ensured compliance with Toyota’s high levels of quality standards.
Quality Engineer – Special Project: Tacoma Line Relocation
Johnson Controls
01.2009 - 01.2010
- Oversaw quality operations during the relocation of the Tacoma production line from Livermore, CA to San Antonio, TX.
- Ensured continuity of quality standards through relocation and re-launch phases.
Operations Supervisor
Johnson Controls
01.2007 - 01.2009
- Supervised production for Toyota Tier 1 supplier operations at TMMTX.
- Managed teams to achieve production, safety, and quality KPIs.
Operations Supervisor / Manufacturing, Process & Quality Engineer / Field Liaison Engineer
Various Tier 1 Suppliers for General Motors
01.1998 - 01.2007
- Held multiple roles supporting General Motors Arlington as a Tier 1 manufacturing supplier, progressing from operations engineer to supervisor.
- Oversaw manufacturing processes, led process improvements, and ensured quality compliance.
- Served as liaison engineer to GM Arlington, ensuring alignment between supplier output and OEM requirements.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Industrial Engineering
Jose Maria Vargas University
01.1997
Skills
- Cross-functional Team leadership
- Continuous Improvement and Lean Methods (Kaizen)
- Entrepreneurial and creative
- Collaborator and persuasive
- Strategic systems-thinker
- Proactive problem-solver
- Great sense of urgency
- AV UX for Tesla, Waymo, and Cruise
Certification
Lead Engineering Certification, 2006
Awards
- Ambassador of the year – San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, 2016
- Ambassador of the year – Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, 2019
- 2025 Businessman of the year - Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Timeline
Autonomous Vehicle Testing & UX Contributor
01.2022 - Current
Owner & Operations Manager
TapSnap Central Texas
01.2015 - Current
Operations Manager – JIT Plant (Seats & Overhead Components)
Johnson Controls
01.2012 - 01.2015
Quality Engineer – Tacoma & Tundra Interiors
Johnson Controls
01.2010 - 01.2012
Quality Engineer – Special Project: Tacoma Line Relocation
Johnson Controls
01.2009 - 01.2010
Operations Supervisor
Johnson Controls
01.2007 - 01.2009
Operations Supervisor / Manufacturing, Process & Quality Engineer / Field Liaison Engineer
Various Tier 1 Suppliers for General Motors
01.1998 - 01.2007
Bachelor of Science - Industrial Engineering
Jose Maria Vargas University
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