Reece Thornton
Normal,IL
Summary
Results-driven and compassionate leader transitioning career focus into the manufacturing realm with a background in clinical research, customer service, and team leadership. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage new product launches, and implement lean manufacturing principles. Recognized for strong interpersonal skills, efficiency, and a collaborative mindset that supports productivity and continuous improvement on the production floor.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Team Leader - New Model Launch Operations
Rivian
Normal, IL
08.2022 - Current
- Team Member - (Aug. 2022 - Feb. 2024)
- Assemble assigned parts onto R1S and R1T vehicles.
- Ensure quality craftsmanship.
- Works with fellow team members to assemble critical elements of the vehicle.
- Level 4 proficiency minimum in 80%+ of stations on the line (Trim 3, GA).
- Train new Team Members in stations where certification is needed.
- New Model Launch Team Member - (Feb. 2024 - Aug. 2024)
- Worked directly with PE for JES creation over several lines.
- Training Team Members, Team Leads, and Group Leads (over 20+ operators/managers at a time) for new launch of vehicles.
- Project management overseeing the line's health and success as Rivian transitions into New Model (Peregrine R1S & R1T).
- Integral operator during launches- with intimate knowledge each and every station having built and deconstructed vehicles front-back.
- Collaborated with several different teams to facilitate training and knowledge disbursement from pre-launch to post launch of peregrine.
- Taught Quality what to look for as new model vehicles were ramping up production after transition.
- Worked with suppliers and other cross functional teams to garner solutions to improve on floor operations.
- Team Leader - New Model Launch Operations (Aug. 2024 - Present)
- Led launch activities for major platform changes of the R1S & R1T, including training 1000+ floor operators of varying levels and dozens of managers across multiple sections of the factory.
- Created Job Element Sheets (JES) for Trim, Chassis, and Final Lines; collaborated with Process Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering and other engineering factions.
- Oversaw prototype builds and FAT (Factory Assurance Testing) for new R2 vehicles; reported and resolved process and fitment issues.
- Facilitated knowledge transfer between teams during launch, including Quality, Engineering, and Operations.
- Supported EDV project (Amazon vans) through process balancing, takt time analysis, and implementation of new chassis variants.
- Built and led training programs for new leads and team members during product ramp-up.
- Integral role in the new R2 Project.
- Creation of JES for several line segments of General Assembly.
- Building of prototypes.
- Prototype issues reporting (process obstacles, ergonomic problems, part fitment, etc.).
- Travel for FAT's (Factory Assurance Test) for assigned segments.
- Creation of training material for operational hierarchy for R2.
- Integral role in Amazon EDV (Electronic Drive Vans).
- Garner and process data for shop rebalancing of takt times.
- Improved takt times from 4mins to 2mins 25secs.
- Training of new chassis and harness implementations for updated variants.
- Validate prototype builds of the R2 to ensure operational success.
Customer Consultant
Beyond Hello
Normal, IL
01.2022 - 08.2022
- Identify and Inform customers about the various ways different products will work within their body.
- Inform customers on the roles in the endocannabinoid system.
- Serve an integral role in all of the areas or retail areas of operation within the store (POS, Online, Sales, etc.)
- Execute excellent customer service to all of the patients.
- Engage in 1-on-1 consultation with a patient who needs more specific information or education on their medicine.
Case Manager
Chestnut Health Systems
Normal, IL
05.2021 - 10.2021
- Conducted assessment evaluations and placed clients in the appropriate level of care with structured guidance and oversight.
- Developed Master Treatment Plans and Continued Stay Reviews with structured guidance and oversight.
- Facilitated educational group and individual sessions utilizing evidence-based practices.
- Supported interventions consistent with the following treatment philosophies: client centered, trauma informed, recovery oriented, and strength based.
Epidemiological Assistant II
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, MD
07.2019 - 03.2020
- Collected data and health metrics from study participants for multi-year research projects.
- Performed health measures on participants (BP checks, blood sample collection for cholesterol and other measures, O2 collection)
- Assessed participants for a myriad of psychological diagnoses (Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Alcoholism, Drug dependence, etc.)
- Ran computer based interventions
- Analyzed and maintained datasets spanning 5+ years of longitudinal health data.
Assistant Branch Manager
Vector Marketing
Normal, IL
06.2016 - 09.2018
- Trained and managed sales team, driving revenue and performance improvements.
- Led recruitment interviews and provided mentorship to new representatives.
- Supported daily operations and collaborated with management on performance evaluations.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology and African American Studies
Saint Louis University
St Louis, MO01.2019
Skills
- Lean Six Sigma - Black Belt
- New model Launch Operations
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- EV Drive Certified
- Production and Process Improvement
- Standard Work/ JES Creation
- Clinical Research & Laboratory operations
- Data Analysis & MURA Studies
- Inventory Management
- Effective Team Leadership and Staff Training
Timeline
Team Leader - New Model Launch Operations
Rivian
08.2022 - Current
Customer Consultant
Beyond Hello
01.2022 - 08.2022
Case Manager
Chestnut Health Systems
05.2021 - 10.2021
Epidemiological Assistant II
University of Maryland Baltimore
07.2019 - 03.2020
Assistant Branch Manager
Vector Marketing
06.2016 - 09.2018
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology and African American Studies
Saint Louis University
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