NICHOLAS WELDON
Talladega,AL
Summary
Experienced in machine operation, maintenance, and fabrication with a strong focus on precision and workflow optimization. Bringing expertise in equipment calibration, problem-solving, and adaptive learning to ensure efficiency and reliability in various mechanical and production settings. Offering skills in teamwork, attention to detail, and communication to support operational success.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
CNC Machine Operator
Alabama Specialty Products Inc.
Munford, AL
03.2026 - Current
- Maintained equipment by performing regular inspections and basic troubleshooting.
- Operated CNC machines to produce precision components for various applications.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline production workflows, enhancing overall efficiency.
- Ensured adherence to safety protocols in the machine shop environment.
- Loaded materials into machines, preparing setups for production runs.
- Adjusted machine settings according to specifications, ensuring consistent quality output.
- Documented production data and machine performance for quality control purposes.
- Inspected parts for conformance to specifications using precision measuring instruments, upholding quality control standards.
- Operated multiple CNC machines simultaneously while adhering to safety protocols at all times.
- Kept parts within close tolerances of design standards to maintain optimal quality.
- Verified settings by measuring positions, first-run parts and sample works with micrometers, calipers or other measuring instruments.
- Adjusted machine feed and speed, changed cutting tools, adjusted machine controls as necessary during the run cycle.
- Updated tooling components to ensure optimal production efficiency.
- Set-up and operated lathes, mills and grinders to cut raw materials.
- Troubleshot issues related to tooling or programming errors using problem solving techniques.
- Ensured that all components met customer requirements before being packaged for shipment.
- Worked from layout and work order, created programs and set up machines to produce required parts.
- Conducted routine inspections to ensure product quality standards met specifications.
- Developed and maintained documentation for quality control processes and protocols.
- Collaborated with production teams to address quality concerns and implement solutions.
- Reviewed product samples for adherence to regulatory guidelines and client requirements.
- Monitored and upheld safe operating procedures and clean area mandates to meet regulatory requirements.
Water jet operator/shipping receiving
AAM
Talladega, AL
06.2024 - 02.2026
- Operate Maxiem 2040 water jet with Omax software.
- Operated water jet cutting machines to cut metal, stone, and other materials with precision accuracy.
- Implemented strategies that reduced waste material during cutting processes, enhancing resource efficiency.
- Developed an in-depth understanding of CAD and CAM software applications related to water jet operations.
- Loaded and unloaded materials, and created basic parts for production.
- Shipping and receiving steel products for the shops and jobs out of town.
- Operated forklifts and overhead cranes to transport materials safely.
- Rebuilt high-pressure pumps and performed maintenance to ensure optimal machine performance.
- Maintained detailed records of all production activities, parts used, and quality checks.
- Drive and deliver packages and freight in a transit van and a 26 ft flatbed Penske truck.
Mechanical Technician I and Painter
Elbit Systems of America
Talladega, AL
01.2018 - 06.2024
- Constructed test fixtures per drawings, executing fabrication and machining to ensure quality standards.
- Performed bench teardown and buildup, troubleshooting hydraulic gun drives for military aircraft to enhance operational reliability.
- Applied enamel, epoxy, and urethane-based paints part-time using hlvp paint guns to achieve high-quality finishes.
- Preparing surfaces: remove outlet and switch covers, scrape, sand, or wire brush surfaces, and fill holes and cracks with putty or plaster.
- Applying paint: sprayers to apply paint, varnishes, stains, or other finishes.
General Maintenance Technician and Welder, Fabricator
Talladega Pattern and Aluminum
Talladega, AL
01.2012 - 01.2018
- Adjusted, repaired, and replaced malfunctioning components and assemblies with hand tools.
- Performed regular maintenance on mechanical systems.
- Maintained a safe work environment by adhering to safety protocols and standards while working on machines.
- Troubleshot and repaired complex mechanical issues.
- Updated colleagues on project status and changes, fostering clear communication and collaboration.
- Exercised sound judgment when making decisions in order to complete tasks efficiently.
- Developed and implemented mechanical maintenance plans to prevent costly equipment breakdowns.
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of mechanical systems and components, including hydraulics, pneumatics, pumps, valves, motors, and other related equipment.
- Conducted detailed tests on parts using various tools such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
- Operated heavy machinery safely following all safety regulations and guidelines.
- Repaired defective parts by disassembling them manually or utilizing automated equipment.
- Maintained detailed records of maintenance activities, ensuring traceability of part numbers and serial numbers.
- Provided training sessions for team members on proper use of tools and equipment.
- Collaborated effectively with customers to identify needs and develop appropriate solutions.
- Removed rough spots from work pieces with portable grinders, hand files and scrapers.
- Communicated effectively with colleagues regarding project updates or changes in plans.
- Employed advanced problem-solving techniques to resolve challenging mechanical issues promptly.
- Oversaw inventory levels for spare parts, ensuring readiness for maintenance tasks and minimizing downtime.
Education
High School Diploma -
Munford High School
01-2010
Skills
- Machine operation
- CAD/CAM software
- Equipment calibration
- Blueprint reading
- Water jet cutting
- Facilities Maintenance/Shop
- Tool selection
- Equipment maintenance
- Production scheduling
- Workflow management
- Safety compliance
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Effective communication
- Adaptive learning
Accomplishments
- Outstanding Employee Award Nominee - Elbit Systems of America (2019)
- Employee of the month March (2020) - Elbit Systems of America
- Employee of the month January (2021 & 2022) - Elbit Systems of America
- Employee of the month August (2023) - Elbit Systems of America
Timeline
CNC Machine Operator
Alabama Specialty Products Inc.
03.2026 - Current
Water jet operator/shipping receiving
AAM
06.2024 - 02.2026
Mechanical Technician I and Painter
Elbit Systems of America
01.2018 - 06.2024
General Maintenance Technician and Welder, Fabricator
Talladega Pattern and Aluminum
01.2012 - 01.2018
High School Diploma -
Munford High School