Michael Bolas
Troy,MI
Summary
Experienced professional engineer with a strong background in technical sales and program management. Demonstrated success in fostering team collaboration and achieving tangible results. Recognized for adaptive problem-solving abilities, effective communication skills, and technical proficiency in complex environments. Dependable team player excelling in dynamic settings and consistently delivering on customer requirements.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Sales Engineer
THE FEDERAL GROUP USA
11.2021 - 10.2024
- Collaborated internationally with industrial OEMs and aftermarket manufacturers
- Program manager for all projects from RFQ through launch
- Evaluated various 2D drawings and engineering specifications from RFQ package
- Assisted in optimizing international procurement of metallic components
- Broadened client base across multiple industries
- Evaluated potential applications by coordinating with engineering departments
- Professional knowledge of forging, stamping, castings, machining, cold heading, and metal forming processes
- Implemented innovative lead generation tactics which resulted in an expanded pipeline of potential customers.
- Increased sales revenue by identifying new market opportunities and implementing targeted sales strategies.
- Developed strong client relationships for long-term business growth and customer satisfaction.
- Negotiated favorable contract terms with clients while maintaining strong working relationships for future business opportunities.
- Established credibility with clients by demonstrating deep industry expertise and technical knowledge during engagements.
- Worked closely with internal departments such as finance, legal, and logistics to ensure smooth transactions for clients during the sales process.
- Provided exceptional customer service throughout the entire sales cycle, resulting in increased client retention rates.
- Thrived in fast-paced environment, constantly re-prioritized and maintained relentless focus on sales process.
- Delivered technical presentations matching audience level of expertise to explain products and services to customers.
- Utilized creative problem-solving skills to overcome technical challenges in the sales process.
- Tracked sales data for analysis and forecasting.
R&D Engineering Manager
MARTINREA INTERNATIONAL
08.2017 - 06.2020
- Spearheaded the next-generation capless fuel technology
- Ensured strong design principles through detailed validation reviews of prototype and production tools
- Evaluated quality data of purchased components, ensuring compliance with requirements
- Presented new product features and validation results to seven OEMs worldwide
- Supervised team of 9 engineers across North America
- Built strong rapport with OEM's clients, establishing reputation as an innovative trusted supplier
- Program manager for all R&D projects
- Designed gate system enabling streamlined tracking of R&D projects
- Maintained budget adherence throughout project lifecycle
- Assisted on VA/VE teams across OEM and Tier suppliers to integrate new products for savings
- Led cross-functional teams for successful product development, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to specifications.
- Coordinated with sales, marketing teams and client to identify needs and develop customized engineering solutions.
- Evaluated project requirements to identify and mitigate risks.
- Evaluated vendor proposals to ensure high-quality materials were sourced at competitive prices while maintaining strong relationships with suppliers.
- Presented progress reports to executive leadership, demonstrating success in meeting project milestones on time and within budget constraints.
- Managed crisis situations, quickly implementing solutions to address unexpected challenges and maintain project momentum.
- Drove successful completion of key projects, coordinating with stakeholders and ensuring alignment with business objectives.
- Presented project information and status updates to customers and fielded concerns.
- Prepared, checked, and coordinated documentation to support component design and application.
Director of Engineering
ELIO MOTORS
07.2016 - 08.2017
- Program Manager for 266 Class A and B body component Stampings
- Identified and documented issues effectively
- Designed various body closures, fascia, and rear spoiler components
- Oversaw fuel system components such as Fuel lines, filler tube assembly and tank assembly
- Worked with the powertrain group to complete the selection of the radiator, fan, and cooling hose routing
- Conducted design reviews to align product design with manufacturing standards ensuring consistent quality
- Oversaw DRE for door and body seals, glass and lighting
- Supported the management team in planning organizational structure, launch timing, and validation test plans
- Obtained necessary components for inaugural build phase
- Resolved prototype build issues to maintain manufacturing continuity
- Engaged in digital design evaluations
- Assisted in developing documentation for Department of Energy's ATVM loan
- Championed innovation, encouraging new ideas from team members and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Took ownership of assigned department-wide projects, presenting regular updates to senior leadership on progress and status.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations through regular audits of systems, processes, and documentation efforts.
- Worked closely with vendors and internal sourcing to establish relationships, fostering new opportunities, solutions and cost savings.
- Created innovative solutions to architectural problems, enabling successful project completion.
Account Manager
TI AUTOMOTIVE (SUN CAPITAL, CROWNE)
03.2001 - 07.2016
- Maintained an Account Manager role for Vari-Form hydroforms while adding additional sales responsibility for Crowne products (low carbon steel tube, stainless steel tube, perforated tubes, and mechanical form tubes)
- Supervised operations for an inside sales employee within the North American market
- Conducted market analysis globally using IHS data to confirm sales potential
- Program Manager conducting APQP meetings internally and at the OEM's for the launch of hydroform structures
- Spearheaded strategic planning efforts to manufacture in India over a 2-year period
- Fostered relationships with OEMs and joint venture partners
- Contributed to the creation of a new lightweight frame for three-wheelers in India (Bajaj and Piaggio)
- Pioneered hydroform applications in automotive BIW, off -highway, agriculture, industrial, and recreational sectors
- Established and managed tier two market with clients such as Magna, Tower, Multimatic, Bayloff and Gestamp
- Directed cross-functional VA/VE teams to meet annual cost-reduction goals for OEM and Tier one client
- Responsible for $231 million in awarded contracts
- (FCA-$181M, GM-$8M, and $42M at tier one suppliers)
- Increased client satisfaction by building strong relationships and addressing their needs promptly.
- Maintained high client retention rate by providing exceptional customer service and anticipating client needs.
- Negotiated contract terms with clients, securing favorable agreements for both parties.
- Actively participated in networking events within the industry, expanding professional connections and generating leads.
- Cultivated long-term relationships with key stakeholders in assigned accounts, fostering trust and loyalty among clients.
- Developed targeted presentations for key accounts, effectively communicating value proposition and securing commitments.
- Promoted conversion of casual shoppers into customers through product knowledge and product solutions to meet customer needs.
Engineering Manager
TI AUTOMOTIVE
01.1996 - 03.2001
- Established German-based team to enhance engineering of brake and fuel lines, HVAC lines and multilayered hose
- Directed engineering teams across North America, Europe, and Asia to achieve company metrics consistently
- Oversaw development of BMW Z4 brake and fuel system applications in North American market
- Managed the closure of a Hanover, Germany facility and transferred team members to Heidelberg, Germany
- Member of R&D team for developing nylon-coated brake tubes
- Led successful validation process for new OEM customer products
- Targeted OEMs included GM, Ford, Chrysler, BMW, Mercedes, Nissan, and Toyota
- Engineered a pioneering application for stainless-steel crossover tubes used in Corvette saddle fuel systems
- Successfully reduced prior tube emissions by 95%
- Led cross-functional teams for successful product development, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to specifications.
- Enhanced overall team productivity with continuous training and mentoring of junior engineers.
- Reviewed technical documentation for accuracy, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Managed risk assessments during project planning phases, proactively mitigating potential issues before they arose during execution stages.
- Coordinated with sales and marketing teams to identify client needs and develop customized engineering solutions.
- Fostered a culture of innovation and continuous improvement by encouraging the sharing of ideas, leading to increased creativity and problem-solving capabilities within the team.
- Evaluated project requirements to identify and mitigate risks.
- Optimized resource allocation, effectively managing budgets and manpower for multiple simultaneous projects.
Senior Application Engineer
TI AUTOMOTIVE
06.1994 - 01.1996
- Directed team members to achieve AQP objectives related to platform duties
- Directed workflow and projects for a team of 4 in North America
- Elevated morale through effective mentorship
- Tasked with setting up the multilayer hose program for the Chrysler Business Unit, including validation testing, shed testing, and customer presentations
- Monitored project timelines consistently
- Managed timely completion of tasks leading to successful launches
- Conducted assessment meetings with Chrysler to confirm alignment with their standards
- Guided engineers in producing Engineering BOM, DVP&R, and design FMEA's
- Provided technical guidance to junior engineers, improving overall team efficiency and skill levels.
Application Engineer
TI AUTOMOTIVE
09.1993 - 06.1994
- Fostered stronger ties with Chrysler
- Pilot build support for 110 part numbers across various OEM plants
- Increased sales from 12 million to 45 million within two years
- Designed fuel and brake systems for Chrysler's DR Ram pick-up truck
- Create Engineering BOM, DVP&R, and design FMEA's
- Conducted lab submissions of sample parts to ensure accuracy
- Reviewed and summarized lab findings to promote safe designs
- Systematically inventoried 60 years of historic brake fittings prints form Bundy's archives
- Eliminated Brake fitting redundancy to achieve an annual savings of more than $40,000
- Assisted sales teams with pre-sales technical support, helping close deals with prospective clients effectively.
- Served as a go-to technical expert within the organization on multiple occasions, providing timely guidance and input during critical decision-making moments.
Project Engineer
ZEXEL CORPORATION
07.1992 - 09.1993
- Monitored and supported fuel injection projects on-site at Ford Motor Co
- Facilitated resolutions for quality-related issues in Ford production plants
- Conducted lab certification testing on fuel injectors for Ford
- Supported sister company Eaton with direct injection pumps for Ford labs
- On-site Engineer supporting Ford with pilot builds, VA/VE, testing samples and quality reviews
- Provided technical expertise throughout all phases of the project, ensuring accurate execution of designs and specifications.
- Maintained records for each project and engineering discipline.
Manager of Engineering Services
EATON PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL (FREUDENBERG LTP)
01.1990 - 06.1992
- Assessed customer filtration requirements and developed appropriate applications
- Supervised press room and laboratory teams to maintain high standards
- Reduced project turnaround time through efficient resource allocation and task prioritization.
- Mentored junior engineers to support their professional growth while enhancing overall team capabilities.
Education
Master of Science - Administration - Concentration in International Administration
Central Michigan University
Mount Pleasant, MI01.2007
Bachelor of Science - Engineering Technology, (concentration Mechanical Engineering)
Lawrence Technological University
Southfield, MI01.1992
Skills
- Patent application
- Team collaboration
- Microsoft Office Suite
- MS Project
- Covisint
- Pricing strategy
- Proposal Development
- CRM and Fresh Sales proficiency
- Sales Engineering
- Engineering Analysis
- Product engineering support
- Automotive sales experience
- Engineering knowledge
- Sales quoting
- Sales and marketing analysis
- Interpersonal skills
- Knowledge of GD&T
- Business Development
- Financial analysis
- Customer Liaison Skills
- Program Management
- Effective Communication
- Business Strategy
- Product knowledge
- Voice of the Customer
- Time Management
- Project Management
- Global Supply Chain Management
- Cross-Functional Leadership
- 2D and 3D Drawings
- Negotiations and Closings
- Problem solving
- Critical thinking
- Cradle to grave responsibility
- Product demonstration
- Customer relationship building
- Sales presentations
- Data analysis
- Account management
- Requirements gathering
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Relationship building
- Self motivation
Certification
- 8662567, Vehicle roof support pillar assembly
- 20100194147, Vehicle roof support pillar assembly
Accomplishments
- Personalysis training
- Dale Carnegie Training
- Karras sales training
- University of Kentucky Lean Manufacturing training
Activities
Boy Scouts - Rank of Eagle Scout
Timeline
Senior Sales Engineer
THE FEDERAL GROUP USA
11.2021 - 10.2024
R&D Engineering Manager
MARTINREA INTERNATIONAL
08.2017 - 06.2020
Director of Engineering
ELIO MOTORS
07.2016 - 08.2017
Account Manager
TI AUTOMOTIVE (SUN CAPITAL, CROWNE)
03.2001 - 07.2016
Engineering Manager
TI AUTOMOTIVE
01.1996 - 03.2001
Senior Application Engineer
TI AUTOMOTIVE
06.1994 - 01.1996
Application Engineer
TI AUTOMOTIVE
09.1993 - 06.1994
Project Engineer
ZEXEL CORPORATION
07.1992 - 09.1993
Manager of Engineering Services
EATON PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL (FREUDENBERG LTP)
01.1990 - 06.1992
Master of Science - Administration - Concentration in International Administration
Central Michigan University
Bachelor of Science - Engineering Technology, (concentration Mechanical Engineering)
Lawrence Technological University
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