James Ellis Browning
Alvarado
Summary
Dependable, safety-driven metalworking professional with 13+ years of fabrication, machining prep, materials handling, and production support experience. Brings strong attention to detail, proven precision workmanship, and hands-on operational knowledge aligned with Lockheed Martin’s standards for quality, aerospace manufacturing readiness, and mission-critical reliability. Experienced in shop equipment operation, electroplating processes, CNC saws, and mechanical problem-solving. Dedicated to supporting production teams through accurate material flow, disciplined process execution, and adherence to safety and quality protocols.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Shop Assistant
Alpha Oil Tools
06.2025 - Current
- Operates forklift, CNC chop saw, and CNC band saw in daily production support.
- Stages materials for machinists and ensures accurate workflow sequencing.
- Loads, unloads, stacks, and organizes materials using safe handling practices.
- Operates the 7-stage electroplating system, maintaining process consistency.
- Performs general shop support and assists with equipment readiness and housekeeping.
Owner / Master Metalworker
Browning & Son Custom Knives
01.2012 - 01.2025
- Designed and fabricated custom knives using full-process metalworking methods.
- Performed grinding, shaping, heat treating, polishing, and assembly to precise specs.
- Managed orders, customer communication, and quality control.
- Developed deep expertise with metals, alloys, equipment, and precision tools.
- Ensured consistency, durability, craftsmanship, and production efficiency.
Furniture Assembler
Hodges Custom Cabinets
05.2008 - 04.2012
- Constructed custom furniture pieces utilizing hand tools and power equipment.
- Analyzed blueprints and technical drawings to ensure precise assembly specifications.
- Facilitated collaboration with design team to uphold quality standards and meet client specifications.
- Facilitated training and mentorship for junior assemblers on safety protocols and assembly techniques.
Custom Automobile Fabricator
Paint Your Wagon
09.2001 - 04.2012
Oversaw the fabrication of custom parts tailored to client specifications through advanced techniques such as welding, grinding, and metal bending. Managed comprehensive custom paint processes, including preparation, masking, sanding, and spray painting. Led the development of custom-built vehicles from inception, ensuring the precise fabrication and installation of roll cages, frames, and suspension systems. Directed the preparation of surfaces for paint, including bare metal and fiberglass, to achieve high-quality finishes.
Lead Fabricator
Marshall Pre Cast Aerobic Septic Systems
07.1998 - 09.2001
- Oversaw fabrication processes for precast aerobic septic systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Managed team workflows, optimizing production efficiency and reducing material waste
Education
High School - undefined
Joshua High School
Joshua, Texas01.1998
Skills
- Achieved high-quality metal fabrication and finishing through effective process management Enhanced production timelines by streamlining operations and fostering team collaboration Contributed to improved product quality and customer satisfaction through diligent oversight
- Oversaw setup and calibration of CNC saw equipment for accurate and timely project completion
- Conducted routine forklift operations, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and optimizing loading processes
- Achieved streamlined material handling and staging processes, resulting in improved operational efficiency Drove initiatives to enhance safety and effectiveness in material management Fostered collaboration among team members to elevate staging outcomes
- Calibrated and maintained precision measurement tools to support engineering projects and improve operational efficiency
- Achieved enhanced material performance through effective heat treating techniques Improved product appearance and longevity via meticulous surface finishing Contributed to overall project success by implementing best practices in treatment processes
- Achieved high-quality finishes through effective management of electroplating systems Improved operational efficiency by implementing streamlined maintenance procedures Enhanced team productivity by fostering a collaborative work environment
- Managed daily shop operations with a strong emphasis on safety practices and risk mitigation
Lockheed Focused Skills Summary
- Strong understanding of precision metalwork and fabrication processes
- Experience supporting production teams in high-accuracy, safety-critical environments
- Skilled in CNC saw operation, cutting prep, and material readiness for machinists
- Knowledge of process discipline, quality checks, and documentation best practices
- Skilled in electroplating systems and surface preparation procedures
- Experienced in forklift operation, inventory movement, and structured material handling
- Ability to read measurements, follow technical instructions, and support machining workflow
- Reliable, teamwork-oriented, and focused on meeting production targets and schedule demands
Timeline
Shop Assistant
Alpha Oil Tools
06.2025 - Current
Owner / Master Metalworker
Browning & Son Custom Knives
01.2012 - 01.2025
Furniture Assembler
Hodges Custom Cabinets
05.2008 - 04.2012
Custom Automobile Fabricator
Paint Your Wagon
09.2001 - 04.2012
Lead Fabricator
Marshall Pre Cast Aerobic Septic Systems
07.1998 - 09.2001
High School - undefined
Joshua High School