Ryan Dukes
Morganfield
Summary
Mechanical Engineer specializing in manufacturing automation, injection molding, and industrial equipment troubleshooting. Extensive experience designing, implementing, and optimizing production and automated assembly systems, including PLC programming and HMI configuration using Allen-Bradley and FactoryTalk View. Skilled in mechanical design (SolidWorks), tooling development, and process optimization to drive uptime, quality, and efficiency. Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives across mechanical, electrical, and controls systems in high-volume manufacturing environments.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Process Engineer (Injection Molding)
Vibracoustic
Morganfield
07.2025 - 02.2026
- Primary engineer responsible for rubber injection molding processes and production support.
- Developed and optimized molding parameters to improve product quality, consistency, and cycle efficiency.
- Led troubleshooting efforts for production downtime and process issues across molding operations.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives to reduce scrap and increase manufacturing productivity.
- Assisted with implementation and support of automated molding equipment and manufacturing cells.
- Coordinated tooling transfers, process validation, and operator training for new or relocated production tools.
- Continued applying assembly engineering expertise in PLC programming, robotics, machine vision, fixture design, and mechanical troubleshooting of assemblies as needed
Process Engineer(Manufacturing Systems & Assembly)
Vibracoustic
Morganfield
06.2023 - 07.2025
- Troubleshot mechanical, electrical, and sensor faults on automated assembly equipment in a high-volume production environment.
- Programmed and modified PLC ladder logic using Allen-Bradley PLC platforms to support machine improvements and resolve faults.
- Developed and updated HMI screens using FactoryTalk View for improved operator interaction and machine diagnostics.
- Diagnosed machine vision, sensor, and IO issues affecting production performance.
- Designed and prototyped custom tooling using SolidWorks to improve assembly processes and reliability.
- Reverse engineered and modified production tooling to support process improvements.
- Identified and implemented manufacturing process improvements to reduce downtime and increase equipment reliability.
Delivery Driver/Counter Person
Auto Tire and Parts Napa
Metropolis
06.2015 - 06.2024
- Deliver customer ordered parts within a timely manner.
- Determine replacement parts required for particular application.
- Unload, check in, and stock merchandise.
- Operate forklift to load, unload, and position merchandise.
Engineering Intern
Holcim
Joppa
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Develop and manage multiple capital expenditure projects.
- Take a lead role in quoting and writing scopes of work.
- Manage contractors. Ensure contractors do their job safely.
- Attend training and online courses for MSHA Part 46 New Miner Certification and refresher course.
- Communicate and adhere to safety policies.
- Inspect and sign hot work and working at heights permits.
- Take part in root cause analysis.
- Hands-on participation in maintenance and preventive maintenance.
- Project management including CAPEX was a major responsibility of the job.
Enumerator (Temporary)
U.S. Census Bureau
Springfield
08.2020 - 11.2020
- Ask questions in accordance with instructions to obtain various specified personal information.
- Review data obtained from an interview for completeness and accuracy.
- Contact individuals to be interviewed at home or field location, by telephone or in person.
- Keep confidential any personal information provided during interviews.
Education
Bachelor's - Mechanical Engineering
University of Kentucky
Paducah, KYAssociate in Science (AS) - Engineering
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
Paducah, KYSkills
●Automation & Controls
PLC troubleshooting & programming (Allen-Bradley PLC), Ladder Logic development, HMI programming (FactoryTalk View / PanelView HMI), Industrial sensors, Machine vision systems, IO diagnostics
●Manufacturing Engineering
Injection molding processes, Automated assembly systems, Continuous improvement, Root cause analysis, GD&T
●Mechanical Design
SolidWorks, AutoCAD, 3D modeling, Tooling design, Technical drawings, Reverse engineering
●Industrial Systems
Equipment troubleshooting, Process optimization, Preventive maintenance, Production support
Certification
- 3D Modeler, Present
- Welder Helper, Present
- Studio 5000 Logix Designer Level 1, 12/01/24, Present
- Automotive Production Engineering, 05/01/23, Present
Timeline
Process Engineer (Injection Molding)
Vibracoustic
07.2025 - 02.2026
Process Engineer(Manufacturing Systems & Assembly)
Vibracoustic
06.2023 - 07.2025
Engineering Intern
Holcim
05.2022 - 08.2022
Enumerator (Temporary)
U.S. Census Bureau
08.2020 - 11.2020
Delivery Driver/Counter Person
Auto Tire and Parts Napa
06.2015 - 06.2024
Bachelor's - Mechanical Engineering
University of Kentucky
Associate in Science (AS) - Engineering
West Kentucky Community and Technical College