James Cross
Akron,OH
Summary
Accomplished Manufacturing Technologist and CNC Programmer with over 25 years in precision machining and CNC programming. Expertise in implementing manufacturing equipment, developing routings, and optimizing processes in collaboration with cross-functional teams. Skilled in capital equipment projects, process improvement, Mastercam, Mitutoyo CMM programming, and first article inspection. Pursuing a Production Manager or Manufacturing Technologist role to enhance operational performance and productivity.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Manufacturing Technologist/CMM Programmer
Ariel Corp
Akron, OH
10.2007 - 06.2026
- Created complete manufacturing routings for new parts, determining the most efficient machining sequence, operations, tooling, and production processes.
- Evaluated engineering drawings and manufacturing requirements to develop optimal manufacturing methods that balanced quality, cost, and throughput.
- Evaluated, purchased, and implemented new manufacturing equipment, enhancing production capabilities.
- Managed equipment installation projects by coordinating with Maintenance, Engineering, and the Methods Group to ensure successful startup and production readiness.
- Collaborated with Engineering, Quality, Production, Maintenance, and the Methods Group to improve manufacturing processes and workflow efficiency.
- Supported production by troubleshooting machining and manufacturing process issues.
- Optimized tooling, machining methods, and production processes to reduce cycle times and improve product quality.
- Analyzed production data to identify trends, driving decisions for continuous improvement projects.
- Developed and implemented process improvement initiatives that minimized waste and streamlined operations.
- Reviewed production schedules and streamlined processes.
- Collaborated with maintenance to verify repaired equipment met required tolerances for manufacturing at Ariel.
- Set up and programmed CMM to inspect first article and production orders, ensuring measurement accuracy.
- Maintained a strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance manufacturing processes and increase operational efficiency.
- Streamlined production workflows, reducing waste and improving output quality through process optimization.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to integrate innovative solutions into existing manufacturing systems.
- Conducted regular audits of production processes to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Spearheaded initiatives that aligned manufacturing strategies with organizational goals, enhancing overall productivity.
- Contributed significantly to reducing lead times by optimizing scheduling practices for better resource allocation within the facility.
- Increased output with the introduction of advanced automation technologies in manufacturing operations.
- Optimized workflow by redesigning production floor layout and streamlining assembly processes.
- Enhanced production efficiency by implementing new manufacturing processes and techniques.
- Improved product quality, implementing stringent quality control measures and thorough inspections.
- Inspected products and machines to maintain quality and efficiency.
- Evaluated employee performance and equipment organization to assess and improve plant operations.
- Developed and implemented CMM programming procedures to enhance measurement accuracy.
- Trained team members on CMM operation and software usage, ensuring compliance with quality standards.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to refine designs based on inspection data, driving continuous improvement initiatives.
- Established best practices for CMM programming, resulting in improved workflow efficiency and consistency in output.
- Optimized measurement accuracy by routinely calibrating and maintaining the reliability of CMM equipment.
- Reduced manufacturing defects by implementing precise measurement techniques and monitoring CMM equipment regularly.
- Enhanced CMM programming efficiency by streamlining code and optimizing inspection routines.
- Provided technical support for production staff, troubleshooting issues related to CMM equipment and software functionality.
- Studied orders to determine required machine sequences and tools to achieve desired results.
CNC Lathe Machinist
Die Components
Akron, OH
04.2003 - 10.2007
- setup and Operated CNC lathes using Mastercam to produce precision components according to technical drawings and specifications.
- Monitored production processes, identifying and resolving issues to maintain workflow efficiency.
- Implemented process improvements that increased production speed and ensured high-quality output.
- Conducted routine maintenance on CNC equipment to minimize downtime and extend machinery lifespan.
- Mitigated defects by inspecting finished components using CMM programming and various measurement tools, ensuring adherence to specifications.
- Streamlined production schedules by managing work orders and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.
- Collaborated with customers' engineers to refine product designs, optimizing manufacturability and reducing costs.
- Supported new product development efforts with prototype creation, providing valuable feedback to engineers for design modifications.
- Assisted in training new employees on CNC lathe operation techniques, fostering a culture of teamwork and skill sharing.
- Ensured timely completion of projects through effective time management skills and efficient multitasking capabilities.
CNC Lathe Machinist
Allen Aircraft Products
Ravenna, OH
1999 - 2002
- Operated Mori Seiki CNC lathes with live milling and bar feeder to produce precision components according to technical drawings and specifications.
- Set up and calibrated machines for optimal performance, ensuring adherence to quality standards.
- Machined priority parts overnight for aircraft on ground, ensuring timely shipment to minimize downtime.
- Collaborated with quality control to verify compliance with specifications, enhancing product reliability.
- Collaborated with quality assurance teams to address non-conformance issues promptly, maintaining customer satisfaction.
- Mitigated defects by carefully inspecting finished components using various measurement tools like micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
- Exceeded daily production goals by troubleshooting machinery and programming issues, contributing to operational success.
Education
1 Year Machinist Training Certificate - Setup, Program And Calibration of Various Machine
Akron Machining Institute
Barberton, OHSetup, Programming And Calibration
Mititoyo Cmm Use Level 1,2, And 3
Cincinnati, OHLevel 1 And 2 Basic Mastercam Use - Machining
Fastec Incorporated
Findlay, OHSkills
- Process automation
- Robotics integration
- Manufacturing processes
- Production planning
- Lean manufacturing
- Quality control
- Product inspection
- Inspection reporting
- Equipment calibration
- Process improvement
- Project management
- Assembly procedures
- Cross-training initiatives
- Task prioritization
- Problem-solving aptitude
Certification
Toastmaster
negotiating for success
crucial conversations , accountability
Disc workshop
Timeline
Manufacturing Technologist/CMM Programmer
Ariel Corp
10.2007 - 06.2026
CNC Lathe Machinist
Die Components
04.2003 - 10.2007
1 Year Machinist Training Certificate - Setup, Program And Calibration of Various Machine
Akron Machining Institute
Setup, Programming And Calibration
Mititoyo Cmm Use Level 1,2, And 3
Level 1 And 2 Basic Mastercam Use - Machining
Fastec Incorporated
CNC Lathe Machinist
Allen Aircraft Products
1999 - 2002