Mark B Rhea

• Enhanced laboratory efficiency by implementing and maintaining an effective inventory management system.
• Reduced chemical waste by optimizing disposal processes and training technicians on safe handling procedures.
• Improved quality control measures by developing and implementing standardized testing protocols for all products.
• Increased accuracy in results by calibrating and maintaining sensitive analytical instruments regularly.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop new product formulations, resulting in successful market launches.
• Mentored junior technicians, providing guidance on best practices and fostering professional growth within the team.
• Troubleshot complex equipment issues, ensuring minimal downtime and preventing costly repairs or replacements.
• Conducted root cause analyses of non-conforming products, identifying areas for improvement to reduce future incidents.
• Performed rigorous quality assurance testing to ensure compliance with industry standards and customer specifications.
• Optimized laboratory layouts for maximum productivity, organizing workspaces efficiently while maintaining a clean environment.
• Managed project timelines effectively, consistently meeting deadlines while balancing multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Coordinated with external vendors to manage supply chain logistics effectively, ensuring timely delivery of raw materials needed for production.
• Served as a subject matter expert in chemistry, providing technical support and consultation to colleagues in need of assistance.
• Efficiently organized and maintained equipment to keep laboratory productive and safe.
• Recorded test results using variety of chemistry-specific software programs.
• Tracked experimental results, coordinated data reviews and produced detailed reports.
• Applied chemistry knowledge and expertise to enhance metallic seal performance applications.

In 1981 I started as an Electroplating Operator Assistant for about two years, I received my certification as a Certified operator calculating surface areas, processing parts, and becoming proficient at inspection. As time went on, I moved to the wet lab and eventually became the company chemist. At the time all plating bath samples were sent out to be checked, by the time we got the results back the bath chemistry had already changed. I performed this procedure in-house avoiding having to send out the chemistry. I was sent to Technic, Fidelity Chemical to work in their labs and learn chemical analysis, how to run AA machine, check surface tension ph. etc. As time went on, I helped to build several new plating shops from the ground up. I learned how to manage people and was supervisor for 2nd and 3rd shift. I was responsible for operating and troubleshooting the industrial waste treatment systems. During this time, I went to school to become a Class 6 Industrial Wastewater Operator and received my license. I became proficient during this period in shipping and receiving, driving the forklift, ordering and storing the chemicals and supplies necessary to maintain a large plating shop. I was also involved in the environmental reporting such as Tier II reports, Iso 14001 audits NADCAP (aerospace audits), MDE and EPA audits and many others.