Jason Foster
Columbus,IN
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven manufacturing leader with 20+ years of experience optimizing operations, leading multi-disciplinary teams, and exceeding performance targets across automotive, aerospace, and defense sectors. Proven success in implementing lean strategies, securing regulatory certifications, and elevating plant productivity — now seeking to lead a high-performance manufacturing team as Plant Manager.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Production Manager – Aerospace & Defense Division
PWR North America
01.2025 - Current
- Lead daily operations for CNC machining, vacuum brazing, heat treating, anodizing, chemical processing, quality control, and assembly for aerospace and defense manufacturing.
- Oversee cross-functional teams to ensure productivity, safety, and compliance.
- Successfully completed NADCAP audits for heat treat and chemical processing within first six months.
- Drive operational improvement projects enhancing throughput and precision.
Vice President of Operations
Mesco Manufacturing
01.2023 - 01.2025
- Streamlined processes and improved key KPIs.
- Managed cost-saving initiatives and vendor relationships.
- Oversaw budgeting and strategic planning for operational growth.
- Led cross-functional teams focused on process excellence.
General Manager
Mesco Manufacturing
01.2019 - 01.2023
- Directed a 50+ person team to reach record sales figures.
- Optimized multi-million dollar budgets to increase profitability.
- Developed strategic vendor partnerships to expand market reach.
- Championed change management and boosted employee engagement.
Supply Chain Manager
Mesco Manufacturing
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Reduced inventory costs by 20% through system improvements.
- Led initiatives to improve supplier reliability and cut lead times.
- Negotiated transport contracts yielding $500K annual savings.
- Consolidated vendors to improve efficiency and cut costs.
Plant Manager
Mesco Manufacturing
01.2016 - 01.2017
- Implemented lean manufacturing strategies to reduce waste.
- Maintained high quality standards while meeting production goals.
- Led team development efforts that strengthened performance culture.
Production Supervisor
NTN Driveshaft
06.2015 - 01.2016
- Managed a team of 80+ employees in a fast-paced
manufacturing environment - Conducted training sessions to ensure team
members understand production goals and
expectations - Collaborated with other departments to ensure
smooth operations and meet production
deadlines
Operations Manager
CL Tech
04.2011 - 06.2015
- Led a team of 50+ employees to achieve 25%
increase in productivity. - Enhanced customer satisfaction by streamlining
processes and improving service levels. - Implemented cost-saving measures resulting in
15% reduction in operational expenses.
Education
Certificate of Technical Studies - Automotive Technology
Lincoln College of Technology
Indianapolis, IN04-2011
High School Diploma -
Columbus North High School
Columbus, IN05-2000
Timeline
Production Manager – Aerospace & Defense Division
PWR North America
01.2025 - Current
Vice President of Operations
Mesco Manufacturing
01.2023 - 01.2025
General Manager
Mesco Manufacturing
01.2019 - 01.2023
Supply Chain Manager
Mesco Manufacturing
01.2017 - 01.2019
Plant Manager
Mesco Manufacturing
01.2016 - 01.2017
Production Supervisor
NTN Driveshaft
06.2015 - 01.2016
Operations Manager
CL Tech
04.2011 - 06.2015
Certificate of Technical Studies - Automotive Technology
Lincoln College of Technology
High School Diploma -
Columbus North High School
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