Trapper Wilcoxson
Keller,TX
Summary
Experienced with designing and optimizing truss structures for various projects. Utilizes problem-solving and technical drawing skills to create effective and safe designs. Knowledge of industry standards and collaboration with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals.
Diligent designer/estimator with solid foundation in truss design and structural engineering. Skilled in developing efficient and robust truss systems, ensuring safety and compliance with industry standards. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and adapt to project requirements, utilizing problem-solving and technical drawing skills.
Diligent designer/estimator with solid foundation in truss design and structural engineering. Skilled in developing efficient and robust truss systems, ensuring safety and compliance with industry standards. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and adapt to project requirements, utilizing problem-solving and technical drawing skills.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Truss Designer/Estimator
UCC/USLBM
East Haven, CT
03.2025 - Current
- Developed efficient design procedures and programs for both in-house and remote truss designers to define the scope of the truss designer role and improve workflow and design efficiency.
- Verified submittal and production-ready designs for accuracy, compliance with structural standards, and submittal expectations.
- Worked closely with sales teams, customers, production leaders, and internal teams to manage project changes, package expectations, and ensure on-time delivery.
- Utilized MiTek Sapphire software to develop and refine truss components and project details, creating 3D models and optimizing truss component design operations.
- Generated detailed quotes, take-offs, and cost estimates for a wide range of construction projects, from single-family homes to complex multifamily structures, supporting production efficiency and production leadership.
- Designed truss systems using advanced CAD software to meet client specifications.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to optimize structural designs for efficiency and safety.
- Conducted material analyses to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
- Streamlined design processes, reducing turnaround times for project completion.
- Implemented quality control measures, improving accuracy in final design outputs.
- Developed training programs for new staff on best practices in truss design methodologies.
- Collaborated with architects and engineers to develop custom truss designs for complex projects.
Senior Truss Designer/Estimator
Struc-Tech
Doswell, VA
03.2021 - 03.2025
- Designed and analyzed truss layouts to meet structural integrity and client specifications.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to optimize design processes and enhance product quality.
- Utilized CAD software to create detailed technical drawings for manufacturing and field installation.
- Reviewed project requirements and provided innovative solutions to improve design efficiency.
- Led cross-functional meetings to ensure alignment on project timelines and deliverables.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced design errors and increased productivity rates.
- Ensured compliance with building codes and regulations throughout the design phase of projects.
- Provided technical support to sales teams during proposal development, ensuring accurate estimates of required materials and labor costs.
- Developed long-lasting relationships with suppliers, negotiating favorable pricing terms for materials used in truss fabrication.
- Enhanced truss design efficiency by implementing advanced software tools and techniques.
- Collaborated with production teams to ensure seamless integration of truss designs into the overall construction process.
- Increased client satisfaction by providing timely and accurate design solutions for their specific needs.
- Assisted clients in selecting appropriate truss systems based on project requirements and budget constraints.
- Delivered comprehensive truss layouts, material lists, and cut sheets to facilitate smooth construction processes.
- Played a pivotal role in successfully completing high-profile projects, garnering recognition and positive feedback from clients and industry peers.
- Consistently met or exceeded annual performance goals set forth by management regarding project completion rates and customer satisfaction.
- Effectively communicated design concepts with non-technical stakeholders using visual aids such as sketches or 3D models when necessary.
Design Manager
PDJ Components
Westchester, NY
09.2019 - 08.2020
- Established design protocols and standards to streamline workflows for designers and sales teams and clarify defined scope and responsibilities.
- Acted as the primary liaison between customers, sales personnel, production leaders, and design teams to coordinate project plans, package expectations, and submittal expectations.
- Trained new designers in trigonometry, structural load calculations, MiTek Sapphire software, and established training paths to support skill progression and production efficiency.
- Led design team to develop innovative product solutions, enhancing market competitiveness.
- Streamlined design processes, reducing time-to-market for new products.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on project objectives and timelines.
- Implemented design reviews, improving quality standards and reducing errors in final products.
- Mentored junior designers, fostering skill development and encouraging creative problem-solving.
- Established design guidelines that improved consistency across product lines and branding efforts.
- Conducted market research to inform design decisions, aligning products with customer needs and trends.
- Oversaw budgeting for design projects, optimizing resource allocation while maintaining quality outcomes.
- Mentored junior designers, providing guidance on design principles, techniques, and best practices to enhance their skill set.
- Spearheaded design process to align with client specifications and budget.
- Managed vendor relationships to source high-quality materials at competitive prices while maintaining budget adherence.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to ensure seamless communication and project delivery, meeting all deadlines and budget constraints.
- Provided cost-effective technical solutions.
- Streamlined creative review process by implementing a centralized feedback system that increased productivity across the team.
- Created materials and designs in MiTek for use in client presentations and communications.
- Delivered high-quality design solutions for various clients, resulting in repeat business and positive testimonials.
- Engaged with design team to mitigate health and safety risks.
- Established performance metrics for the design team that fostered accountability and improved overall results.
Senior Truss Designer/Project Estimator
Associated Truss
Dallas, TX
01.2018 - 09.2019
- Partnered with contractors, architects, and engineers to ensure designs met project specifications and building codes, and to support review processes and check processes.
- Created roof and floor truss designs for commercial and multifamily projects using MiTek Sapphire and AutoCAD, focusing on design optimization and production efficiency.
- Conducted quality assurance reviews and quality control checks, ensuring design accuracy and production leadership in meeting submittal expectations.
- Mentored junior designers, enhancing their skills in truss design and software tools.
- Led cross-functional meetings to align design strategies with project goals and timelines.
- Conducted thorough quality control checks on completed designs to minimize errors and revisions.
- Mentored junior designers, sharing industry knowledge and best practices to improve overall team performance.
- Ensured truss designs adhered to industry standards and building codes for optimal structural integrity.
- Implemented a systematic approach to managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining strict deadlines and high-quality standards.
- Streamlined the design process, reducing project turnaround time through effective communication with team members.
- Optimized material usage in truss designs, resulting in cost savings for both clients and the company.
- Interpreted drawing markups and implemented drawing revisions provided by engineers.
- Drafted required documentation for commercial and residential developments.
- Maintained communication with construction teams to review progress for accurate reflection of initial project intentions.
- Evaluated project sketches and drawings for technical and measurement errors.
Truss Designer
Trussway
Dallas, TX
04.2016 - 01.2018
- Designed roof and floor truss systems for large-scale multifamily projects, developing full 3D structural models using MiTek Sapphire and AutoCAD.
- Provided ongoing technical support to designers in both plant and field environments, supporting staffing and training paths.
- Contributed to production efficiency and design efficiency by refining truss component design operations and implementing check processes.
- Designed truss layouts using advanced CAD software to meet project specifications and building codes.
- Collaborated with engineers and architects to ensure structural integrity and compliance.
- Reviewed and analyzed project blueprints for accuracy, identifying potential design issues early.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks to meet tight deadlines.
- Developed innovative design solutions that improved efficiency in production processes.
- Implemented quality control measures, enhancing overall reliability of truss products delivered to clients.
- Mentored junior designers, sharing industry knowledge and best practices to improve overall team performance.
- Conducted thorough quality control checks on completed designs to minimize errors and revisions.
- Ensured truss designs adhered to industry standards and building codes for optimal structural integrity.
- Enhanced truss design efficiency by implementing advanced software tools and techniques.
- Delivered comprehensive truss layouts, material lists, and cut sheets to facilitate smooth construction processes.
- Implemented a systematic approach to managing multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining strict deadlines and high-quality standards.
- Collaborated with production teams to ensure seamless integration of truss designs into the overall construction process.
- Optimized material usage in truss designs, resulting in cost savings for both clients and the company.
- Effectively communicated design concepts with non-technical stakeholders using visual aids such as sketches or 3D models when necessary.
Senior Structural Designer
Stock Building Supply
Albuquerque, NM
07.2015 - 04.2016
- Communicated directly with builders, inspectors, and engineers to define project requirements, ensure compliance with building codes, and clarify submittal expectations.
- Reviewed blueprints and building plans to ensure compliance and structural integrity, performing load calculations and design optimization.
- Developed detailed estimates and take-offs based on project specifications to support on-time delivery and project cost estimation.
- Led design projects for residential and commercial structures, ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.
- Conducted thorough site assessments to identify structural challenges and propose effective design modifications.
- Utilized advanced design software to create detailed structural drawings and specifications, improving accuracy and efficiency.
- Streamlined design processes by implementing new tools, reducing project turnaround times significantly.
- Reviewed project proposals for structural integrity, providing critical feedback to enhance overall quality of designs.
- Delivered high-quality structural designs for various building types, including commercial, residential, and industrial projects.
- Ensured compliance with relevant building codes, regulations, and industry best practices in all structural designs developed.
- Resolved complex design challenges by applying advanced engineering concepts and creative problem-solving techniques.
- Performed detailed calculations for load-bearing capacities, stress analysis, and other essential aspects of structural integrity on numerous projects.
Roof/Floor Truss Designer/Senior Truss Designer/Project Estimator
Timber Tech
San Antonio, TX
09.2013 - 07.2015
- Transitioned MiTek Sapphire Suite to version 7.4, improving design processes, workflow, and MiTek SAPPHIRE platform adoption.
- Trained new users transitioning from Simpson design software to MiTek, establishing training paths and supporting skill progression.
- Collaborated with engineers and inspectors to refine truss designs for compliance, quality assurance, and meeting package and submittal expectations.
- Designed truss layouts utilizing CAD software for residential and commercial applications.
- Collaborated with engineers to ensure structural integrity and compliance with building codes.
- Conducted material take-offs to optimize resource allocation and reduce waste.
- Streamlined design processes, resulting in improved turnaround times for project delivery.
- Evaluated design proposals to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness of projects.
- Developed custom truss solutions based on client specifications and project requirements.
- Coordinated structural, electrical and mechanical designs and determined best method of presentation to graphically represent building plans.
Drafter/Laborer
Town of Saratoga
Saratoga, WY
05.2011 - 03.2013
- Measured and surveyed flood berm heights to calculate material and equipment requirements and support project scheduling and on-time delivery.
- Developed architectural floor plans and performed blueprint reading and building plan interpretation for municipal construction projects.
- Designed sewer, drainage, and easement systems, coordinating with city planners and engineers to meet defined scope and regulatory expectations.
- Developed detailed architectural and engineering drawings using AutoCAD software.
- Collaborated with project managers to ensure compliance with local codes and regulations.
- Reviewed designs for accuracy and consistency, implementing revisions as necessary.
- Coordinated with contractors to clarify design specifications and resolve issues.
- Streamlined workflow processes by integrating new CAD technologies into daily tasks.
- Enhanced documentation procedures, ensuring all drafts were properly archived for future reference.
- Used computer-aided design software to prepare project blueprints.
- Supported project managers in generating accurate estimates for materials, labor, and equipment needs based on drafted plans.
- Created, printed, and modified drawings in AutoCAD and Revit.
Contract Drafting & Design
Independent Contractor (Freelance)
Sacramento
09.2007 - 05.2011
- Created topographical maps, sewer layouts, and plat designs for civil and structural projects, coordinating with engineers and city planners on project scope.
- Drafted architectural blueprints and technical drawings, ensuring compliance with building codes and production requirements.
- Coordinated directly with engineers and city planners to refine designs, prepare submittals, and support on-time delivery.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions, and make decisions.
Roof/Floor Truss Designer
Universal Forest Products
Berlin, NJ
09.2006 - 09.2007
- Designed and optimized roof and floor truss systems for commercial and residential construction, developing design protocols and standards for trainees.
- Implemented design optimization practices to improve production efficiency and ensure compliance with submittal expectations and package expectations.
- Led cross-functional teams in troubleshooting design issues during construction phases.
- Continuously updated professional knowledge by attending industry conferences, workshops, and seminars related to truss design technologies.
- Contributed to business growth by identifying potential new clients through networking at industry events or online research.
- Visited contractors on job sites and provided advice on how to correct improper implementations.
- Maintained strong knowledge of latest drafting software to create fresh, accurate project drawings.
- Analyzed building codes, space and site requirements and other technical documents and reports to determine effect on architectural designs.
- Crafted detailed drawings that met customer requirements for structures using reinforced steel, concrete, masonry and wood materials.
- Explained drawings to production or construction teams and adjusted as necessary.
- Verified work compliance with contractual requirements by reviewing projects at each stage.
Senior Component Designer
MiTek Industries, Inc.
Citrus Heights, CA
10.2002 - 09.2006
- Spearheaded the development of 3D structural models and architectural designs using MiTek Sapphire, improving truss component design operations and workflow.
- Trained designers and engineers on MiTek software, established best practices, and supported training paths and skill progression.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions for complex design challenges.
- Mentored junior designers, providing guidance on best practices and creative techniques.
- Streamlined design processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing turnaround times for project deliverables.
- Utilized advanced design software to create high-quality visual presentations and prototypes.
- Developed and maintained design standards, ensuring consistency across all digital and print materials.
- Managed multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints.
- Developed innovative design concepts for improved brand recognition and customer engagement.
- Presented creative solutions to client challenges, resulting in high levels of client satisfaction and repeat business opportunities.
- Used Adobe Creative Suite to edit images for use in marketing materials and website content.
- Streamlined design processes, resulting in increased efficiency and faster project completion times.
Education
Associate of Science - Computer-Aided Drafting & Design
ITT Technical Institute
Rancho Cordova01-2001
Skills
- Truss Design, Truss Component Design Operations, Workflow, Design Standards, Design Efficiency, Production Efficiency, Production Leadership, Staffing, Training, Training Paths, Skill Progression, Submittals, Submittal Expectations, Package Expectations, Review Processes, Check Processes, On-time Delivery, Defined Scope of the Truss Designer Role, Communication, Customers / Client Liaison, Sales Collaboration, Production, MiTek Sapphire (MiTek SAPPHIRE Platforms), MiTek Sapphire Software Expertise, AutoCAD (2019), Architectural Desktop, Civil 3D, SolidWorks, Inventor, Simpson Strong-Tie / Simpson Structure, 3D Modeling, Structural Load Calculations, Load Calculations, Blueprint Reading, Building Codes, Estimating, Cost Estimation, Take-Offs, Project Management, Scheduling, Project Cost Estimation, Quality Control, Quality Assurance, Design Optimization, Design Software, Productivity Tools, Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Access, Project), Team Collaboration, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Production Staff Management, Leadership, Team Training, Customer Liaison, Blueprint, Building Plan Interpretation, Estimation, Trigonometry
- Detail-oriented
- Client communication
- AutoCAD proficiency
- Engineering software
- Load calculations
- Material selection
- Structural analysis
- Building codes
- Value engineering
- Structural engineering
- Design optimization
- Mitek software
- Roof trusses
- Truss design
- Construction drawings
Timeline
Senior Truss Designer/Estimator
UCC/USLBM
03.2025 - Current
Senior Truss Designer/Estimator
Struc-Tech
03.2021 - 03.2025
Design Manager
PDJ Components
09.2019 - 08.2020
Senior Truss Designer/Project Estimator
Associated Truss
01.2018 - 09.2019
Truss Designer
Trussway
04.2016 - 01.2018
Senior Structural Designer
Stock Building Supply
07.2015 - 04.2016
Roof/Floor Truss Designer/Senior Truss Designer/Project Estimator
Timber Tech
09.2013 - 07.2015
Drafter/Laborer
Town of Saratoga
05.2011 - 03.2013
Contract Drafting & Design
Independent Contractor (Freelance)
09.2007 - 05.2011
Roof/Floor Truss Designer
Universal Forest Products
09.2006 - 09.2007
Senior Component Designer
MiTek Industries, Inc.
10.2002 - 09.2006
Associate of Science - Computer-Aided Drafting & Design
ITT Technical Institute