Jack VanLoon
Spring Lake,Michigan
Summary
Detail-oriented engineer skilled in process development and optimization. Known for strong analytical thinking and effective communication, contributing to successful project outcomes and continuous improvement initiatives. 30 years of injection molding management and Engineering process development.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Molding Engineer
Magna Mirrors
Newaygo, MI
11.2024 - Current
- Developed and implemented design specifications for automotive mirror systems.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance product quality and performance.
- Conducted root cause analysis to resolve engineering issues effectively.
- Utilized 3D modeling and simulations of mirror components.
- Assisted in testing and validation procedures to ensure compliance with standards.
- Streamlined production processes, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced waste.
- Provided technical support during product development phases to meet customer requirements.
- Participated in continuous improvement initiatives to optimize engineering workflows.
- Established strong working relationships with clients through exceptional communication skills, fostering trust and collaboration.
- Wrote, reviewed and edited technical document in accordance with template requirements.
- Developed positive working relationships with stakeholders to effectively coordinate work activities.
- Achieved successful project outcomes by maintaining accurate documentation and meeting strict deadlines.
- Reduced project completion time with efficient resource allocation and effective communication strategies.
- Optimized engineering processes by implementing innovative solutions and streamlining workflow.
- Developed cost estimates and project specifications for proposals.
- Conducted rigorous quality assurance tests, identifying areas of improvement for product optimization.
- Provided input to team lead regarding areas for process and procedural improvement.
- Collaborated on interdisciplinary teams to develop creative, cost-effective solutions for complex projects.
- Reviewed technical drawings developed by CAD technicians and drafters.
- Presented technical findings to stakeholders, ensuring clear understanding of project status and goals.
- Enhanced product performance by conducting thorough failure analysis and recommending improvements.
- Supported junior engineers through mentorship, offering guidance on complex problem-solving and technical skills development.
Process Engineer
Belmont Engineered Plastics
Belmont, MI
09.2018 - 09.2024
- Led process optimization initiatives, reducing waste and improving efficiency across production lines.
- Developed and implemented quality control procedures to ensure compliance with industry standards.
- Conducted root cause analysis for production issues, driving corrective actions and preventive measures.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance product design, resulting in improved manufacturability.
- Mentored junior engineers on best practices in process engineering and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Streamlined workflows through automation, increasing throughput while maintaining product quality standards.
- Presented findings and recommendations to management, supporting strategic decision-making processes regarding production improvements.
- Provided technical assistance to production team when issues arose.
- Evaluated new technologies and equipment upgrades to enhance overall process capabilities, ensuring market competitiveness.
- Optimized manufacturing processes by implementing continuous improvement initiatives and lean methodologies.
- Participated in project reviews to enable ongoing status tracking and reporting.
- Implemented standardized work instructions, enhancing operator understanding of critical tasks and improving workflow consistency.
- Reduced production downtime by conducting thorough root cause analyses and implementing corrective actions.
- Conducted root cause analysis to identify, prioritize and eliminate process losses.
- Coached newly hired employees and interns while observing progress and delegating tasks.
Plant Manager / Process Engineer
Lakeshore Diversified Products
Spring Lake, MI
02.1989 - 08.2018
- Directed production operations to optimize efficiency and reduce downtime.
- Implemented continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process workflows and productivity.
- Managed cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
- Developed training programs for staff to elevate skill levels and promote safety compliance.
- Utilized Lean manufacturing principles to streamline processes and eliminate waste.
- Analyzed production metrics to drive strategic decision-making and operational enhancements.
- Oversaw budgeting and resource allocation for multiple projects, ensuring cost-effective solutions.
- Increased production efficiency by optimizing plant layout and implementing process improvements.
- Reduced costs by eliminating materials waste and unnecessary labor hours.
- Directed employees and related programs to maximize team productivity and facility output.
- Provided direction and leadership to all levels of employees and managers.
- Boosted employee morale and productivity through effective leadership and motivational techniques.
- Monitored and evaluated plant performance to identify areas for improvement and take corrective measures.
- Led, trained and coached plant staff to facilitate high levels of productivity and quality.
- Balanced labor needs with production schedules to optimize workforce utilization while maintaining output targets.
- Oversaw daily operations of 30000 sq. ft. manufacturing plant.
- Created plant policies and procedures for safe and productive operations.
- Mentored and developed staff members, promoting professional growth opportunities within the organization.
- Maintained quality of product with robust inspections and assessment team.
- Managed direction and planning for plant with focus on optimization of daily functions, exceeding customer expectations, and achieving KPIs.
- Collaborated with sales team to align plant capabilities with customer demands, fostering long-term business relationships.
Education
Associate of Science - Injection Molding Theory
Ferris State University
Big Rapids, MI05-1990
Skills
- Critical thinking
- Project management
- Project planning
- Data analysis
- Technical reporting
- System troubleshooting
- Root-cause analysis
- Time management
- Process improvement
- Process development
- Manufacturing processes
- Failure analysis
- Team collaboration
- Budget management
- Process automation
Timeline
Molding Engineer
Magna Mirrors
11.2024 - Current
Process Engineer
Belmont Engineered Plastics
09.2018 - 09.2024
Plant Manager / Process Engineer
Lakeshore Diversified Products
02.1989 - 08.2018
Associate of Science - Injection Molding Theory
Ferris State University