Obadiah Kilonzo
Shelby,NC
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in enterprise-wide excellence and cost-saving initiatives. Proven expertise as a Process Control Subject Matter Expert and in leading continuous improvement initiatives as a Six Sigma Black Belt. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, combined with a solid background in engineering, administration, and cross-functional team collaboration. Proficient in creating dynamic Power BI dashboards, driving data-driven decision-making and actionable insights Skilled in data analysis, data visualization, process research, and report design.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Process Control Specialist
Nippon Electric Glass (NEG)
07.2019 - 11.2024
- Led data-based decision making, developed and coached on best practice tools
- Delivered cutting-edge, cost-effective technological solutions on process control
- Troubleshot and resolved complex process problems using Root Cause Analysis
- Applied Six Sigma DMAIC techniques for process optimization
- Created presentations and technical reports for stakeholders
- Used statistical analysis methods and tools for continuous improvement opportunities
- Automated data mining and analysis with scripting
- Analyzed and designed studies on business processes for future strategies
- Chartered efforts to resolve process data collection and visualization issues
- Documented and led projects for Power BI and other dashboards
- Participated in business forecasting to align production with market demands
- Enhanced process understanding and data-based decision making
- Worked with other departments and vendors to achieve holistic business solutions
Sr. Batch and Furnace Engineer
PPG/NEG
11.2016 - 06.2019
- Generated energy reports for management and EHS/CO2 reduction tracking
- Utilized statistical analysis tools (JMP, Excel) along with SQL databases and PLC data
- Recommended control modifications and operational changes to optimize furnace and process performance
- Collaborated with Instrumentation and vendors to apply automation tools (model predictive control, boundary control, adaptive control) to the process
- Build knowledge of best practices through benchmarking and coordination with the Enterprise Excellence and Glass Manufacturing Team
- Developed reporting systems, led and trained on data mining tools
- Conducted audit observations, took direct measurements, and interpreted existing data from sources like Process Historians, batch records, logs, and technical staff
- Analyzed Batch flow calculations and demand forecasting
Sr. Project R/D Engineer
PPG
08.2015 - 10.2016
- Conducted process tests, gage R&R, regression analysis, and capability studies
- Collected data, analyzed, and compiled reports for various business processes
- R/D project management and training in JMP
- Participated in projects involving graduate student research related to Glass Process Control
- Researched process methodologies, product management methods, and patents
- Engaged in cross-SBU business meetings, R/D project management and technology transfer training
Automation Engineer
Carolina Automation Systems
07.2011 - 04.2015
- Involved in system integration tasks such as automation design and programming for plant startups and upgrades
- Developed HMI graphics and coded for PLCs, SCADA, and DCS systems
- Provided automation support, project management, and created electrical drawings
- Generated reports, conducted data collection and trend analysis
- Solved computer, network, and backup issues
- Conducted training sessions for team members and clients such as Introduction to HMI, Alarming and PLC Communication (Garner, NC 2013), Introduction to ABB CODESYS Programming and Troubleshooting Tips (Fort Smith, AR 2012) and ABB PLC SD Card Retention's Practice (Fort Smith, AR 2012 and Grand Rapids, MI 2012)
Administrator
Stewart Acoustical Consultants
01.2007 - 07.2011
- Increased consultants' billable time by over 10% through efficient management of office tasks, project management, financial and database reporting, troubleshooting, and event planning for NCASA
Education
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - Mechanical Engineering
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC 09.2006 - 12.2010
Master of Science (MSME) - Mechanical Engineering
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NY 09.2003 - 05.2005
Bachelor of Science (BSME) - Mechanical Engineering
University of Nairobi
Skills
Data Analysis
Data Visualization
Data Driven Decision Making
Continuous Improvement
Six Sigma Black Belt
Statistical Analysis
Power BI
Process Automation
Microsoft Suite
Analytical Skills
Historians
Cross-Functional Teamwork
Process Development
Instrumentation Knowledge
Training and mentoring
Reporting skills
Excellent Communication
Performance Improvement Tracking
Research and Teaching Experience
Conducted research and taught at NC State University and Rochester Institute of Technology, focusing on process control modeling, error compensation, and hands-on instrumentation. Published and presented at various conferences on topics including SCADA control and real-time friction error compensation.
Timeline
Process Control Specialist
Nippon Electric Glass (NEG)
07.2019 - 11.2024
Sr. Batch and Furnace Engineer
PPG/NEG
11.2016 - 06.2019
Sr. Project R/D Engineer
PPG
08.2015 - 10.2016
Automation Engineer
Carolina Automation Systems
07.2011 - 04.2015
Administrator
Stewart Acoustical Consultants
01.2007 - 07.2011
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - Mechanical Engineering
North Carolina State University
09.2006 - 12.2010
Master of Science (MSME) - Mechanical Engineering
Rochester Institute of Technology
09.2003 - 05.2005
Bachelor of Science (BSME) - Mechanical Engineering
University of Nairobi
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