Sean Kirkpatrick

At Bal Seal, I manufactured platinum-iridium microsprings designed for use in medical devices. For this, I used proprietary coiling machines, running two to three machines daily. These machines were very hands-on, requiring manual setup of all parts, as well as frequent manual adjustment. To ensure quality, I was trained to use custom optical machines to verify all measurements of the coil, as well as perform visual checks under a microscope. I utilized this information to make motor-speed adjustments, ultimately refining the coil produced. Due to the proprietary nature of this job, I was expected to maintain confidentiality, never being allowed to bring in any devices with cameras or recording capabilities, including phones.

At the TCA, I worked as a marching band percussion coach, mentoring both the drumline and the front ensemble. I was expected to prepare them for upcoming performances, as well as for competitions. This involved working with both individual students and the overall group to achieve the best possible musical experience the group could offer. I also worked hard to make all students feel important and heard, listening to and answering any suggestions or questions they had. Ultimately the TCA marching band went on to earn best band at the regional competition that season.

I was trained to use pneumatic palm sanders to shape and finish the edges and corners of granite and quartz countertops. This involved a creative and careful eye, requiring me to hone my subjective view to insure the best product possible.

My primary duties consisted of running 3-5 5-axis Hasegawa CNC Machines daily to manufacture titanium and stainless steel, medical grade screws for orthopedic surgery. I was expected to inspect random parts many times throughout each order, typically using tools such as micrometers, comparators, microscopes, and go/no-go gauges, as well as performing a final check of a predetermined amount of parts (AQL). I was also expected to maintain paperwork traceability throughout all processes, including recording scrap created along with scrap codes. I was also expected to maintain a clean and organized workspace at all times (6S), as well as perform light maintenance on my machines, including refilling fluids, emptying chip bins, and replacing filters. Additionally, I was trained to use ultrasonic cleaners, rock tumblers, and handheld sandblasters. Beyond these expectations, I also assisted the 3D printing team in designing custom tool holders for various machines, culminating in hand-drawn design and measurement sheets for each holder, which the team used to recreate in CAD software. Additionally, I checked and refined prototypes provided by the 3D printing team.