Nicholas Dickerson
Three Rivers,MI
Summary
Accomplished Journeyman Tool Maker and Tool Room Lead at Shiloh/Bentler, skilled in precision machining and fixture design. Enhanced productivity through innovative tooling solutions and effective team collaboration. Recognized for implementing quality control measures that improved product reliability and reduced downtime, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and mentorship among junior staff.
Pursuing full-time role that presents professional challenges and leverages interpersonal skills, effective time management, and problem-solving expertise.
Innovative technology professional with several years of diverse experience. Skilled in enhancing systems and aligning technical solutions with business objectives. Proven success in leading projects from start to finish and contributing to organizational growth and success.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Journeyman Tool Maker/ Tool Room Lead
Shiloh / Bentler
Galesburg, MI
08.1999 - Current
- Operated precision machining tools to fabricate components for automotive applications.
- Interpreted engineering drawings and specifications to ensure product compliance.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to develop prototypes and improve tooling processes.
- Implemented quality control measures to enhance product consistency and reliability.
- Trained junior tool makers on equipment operation and safety protocols.
- Developed new project tooling to meet exact tolerances.
- Managed inventory of materials and supplies, ensuring timely availability for production needs.
- Led troubleshooting efforts for complex tooling issues, reducing downtime significantly.
- Analyzed production workflows to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to develop innovative designs for improved manufacturing efficiency.
- Reduced machine downtime by troubleshooting and resolving tool-related issues promptly.
- Enhanced productivity by designing and fabricating custom tooling for manufacturing processes.
- Enabled seamless transitions between shifts by documenting all relevant information related to ongoing operations and tool status.
- Supported cross-functional teams during new product development processes from concept design to final production stages.
- Sustained a high level of craftsmanship, adhering to industry standards and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of advancements in tool making technology.
- Assisted in cost reduction efforts by recommending alternate materials and fabrication methods for tooling projects.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors, negotiating favorable pricing on raw materials without compromising quality requirements.
- Streamlined workflow by organizing tools, equipment, and materials for easy accessibility in the workshop.
- Optimized tool performance through meticulous maintenance, inspection, and repair of production tools.
- Promoted a positive work culture that fostered teamwork, open communication, and continuous improvement among team members.
- Contributed to quality assurance initiatives by conducting thorough inspections on finished tools before deployment in production lines.
- Boosted operational efficiency with timely completion of assigned projects while maintaining high-quality craftsmanship.
- Monitored production and made improvements for quality and productivity.
- Read and stuck to detailed production schedules.
- Requisitioned replacement tools, parts, and equipment.
- Inspected items for safety and operability.
- Inspected final products for quality and functionality.
- Trimmed blocks and blanks to outlined dimensions with rules, hand saws, and power shears.
- Conceptualized and designed new products using computer software and 3D imaging to assess validity.
- Measured and scribed plastic and metal stock with extreme accuracy to prepare for automated machine production.
- Assessed need and resourcefully designed jigs, fixtures, and templates to aid in production efficiency.
- Selected specific metals and other materials for tools depending on heat tolerance and durability, according to tool functions.
- Assembled, maintained, and operated drill presses to drill holes in products throughout assembly.
- Polished and refined tool surfaces, both flat and contoured using abrasive stones, power grinders, and emery cloths.
- Computed dimensions, shapes, and specific sizes for dies based on design outlines.
- Adjusted and ground dies, tools, and parts after production to assure quality control and usability.
- Implemented lean manufacturing principles to minimize waste within the workshop environment while maintaining optimal production levels.
- Mentored apprentices in the art of tool making, sharing expertise on various machining techniques and best practices.
- Achieved financial savings through efficient inventory management that prevented stock shortages or excesses of raw materials needed for daily operations.
- Increased accuracy in production by implementing precision measuring instruments and techniques.
- Updated technical knowledge continuously through industry research, trade publications, seminars, and workshops.
Education
Journeyman's Certificate - Tool And Die Maker
Kellogg Community College
Battle Creek, MI03-2021
High School Diploma -
Three Rivers High School
Three Rivers, MI05-1995
Skills
- Manual milling
- Precision machining
- Surface grinding
- Milling
- Press breakdown
- Mechanical press operation
- Lathing
- Manual turning
- Component turning
- Tool repair history
- Geometric dimensioning
- Fixture design
- Forging techniques
- Material selection
- Heat treatment
- Welding techniques GMAW, GTAW, and oxy-acetylene
- CNC operation
- Pneumatic tools
- Jigs
- Bench fittings
- Press inspection
- Welding techniques
- CNC programming
Timeline
Journeyman Tool Maker/ Tool Room Lead
Shiloh / Bentler
08.1999 - Current
Journeyman's Certificate - Tool And Die Maker
Kellogg Community College
High School Diploma -
Three Rivers High School