Zeb Elsworth
Puxico,MO
Summary
Versatile and results-driven professional with a strong background in manufacturing and engineering, notably at Nestle Purina PetCare. Demonstrated expertise in operational efficiency and product inspection, enhancing product quality and workplace safety. Skilled in fostering team collaboration and adapting to change, with a proven track record of improving production metrics and efficiency.
Experienced with process optimization, quality control, and equipment maintenance in manufacturing settings. Utilizes strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues efficiently. Knowledge of safety protocols and teamwork to maintain high operational standards. Experienced with labor relations, conflict resolution, and collective bargaining. Utilizes strong negotiation skills to advocate for fair treatment and workplace improvements. Track record of effective communication and collaboration in union settings.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Manufacturing Process Operator
Nestle Purina PetCare
03.2013 - 04.2024
- Collaborated with team members to meet daily production goals and deadlines.
- Kept machinery operating at optimal performance levels through routine inspections, calibration checks, and timely repairs.
- Enhanced product quality by closely monitoring production metrics and making adjustments to machinery as needed.
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment, adhering to 5S principles for efficient workspace management.
- Safeguarded employee safety by strictly adhering to OSHA guidelines, conducting regular safety audits, and providing thorough training on equipment usage.
- Supported new product development initiatives by assisting engineers with prototype assembly and testing procedures.
- Participated in root cause analysis exercises following incidents or near-misses, helping prevent future occurrences.
- Provided guidance and support to junior operators, fostering a positive team environment conducive to learning and professional growth.
Union Steward
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
11.2020 - 12.2023
- Ensured fair treatment of 400 plus workers through diligent investigation of labor practices and potential violations.
- Leveraged professional networks within the broader labor movement to stay informed about trends, legislation changes, best practices that could impact union membership positively or negatively.
- Collaborated with legal counsel when necessary to address complex issues related to labor laws or contract disputes.
- Promoted a culture of solidarity among workers by organizing social events and opportunities for both union members and non-union employees to engage in team-building activities.
- Protected worker''s rights by advocating for appropriate health and safety measures within the workplace.
- Assisted in the resolution of conflicts involving both union members and non-union employees, maintaining harmony in the workforce.
- Negotiated collective bargaining agreements.
- Educated new employees on their rights, benefits, and responsibilities as union members during orientation sessions.
Lumber Sales Associate
Home Depot
12.2012 - 02.2013
- Increased lumber sales by providing excellent customer service and in-depth product knowledge.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean and organized sales floor, enhancing the overall shopping experience for customers.
- Assisted customers with selecting the appropriate lumber for their projects, resulting in increased satisfaction and repeat business.
- Moved bulk customer orders with safe operation of forklifts.
- Helped customers obtain correct sizes and shapes by using power tools to cut lumber.
Machinist
Specialty Engineering
06.2005 - 05.2011
- Inspected completed parts to verify compliance with specifications and quality standards.
- Utilized micrometers and calipers to measure and verify precise tolerances.
- Operated drill presses, lathes and milling machines to produce required parts.
- Manually set up machinery, lathes, and grinders.
- Demonstrated flexibility in working with various materials, including metals, plastics, and composites, to produce high-quality machined components.
- Used CNC and manual equipment to perform both initial and final machining.
- Adjusted machine settings to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
- Read and interpreted blueprints, technical drawings and schematics to determine parts dimensions.
- Studied daily work instruction, sketches, drawings, blueprints, and manuals to determine dimensions and tolerances accurately.
- Optimized tooling performance through regular inspection, cleaning, sharpening or replacing worn tools as needed.
- Achieved tight tolerances by carefully calibrating machines before beginning each job.
- Performed preventative maintenance on machines regularly to minimize downtime due to breakdowns or malfunctions.
- Increased precision of manufactured components by implementing quality control measures and using advanced measuring tools.
- Minimized material waste, calculating optimal cutting paths and material usage in advance.
- Mastered various machining operations, including milling, drilling, and turning, to expand production capabilities.
Vulcanizer
Gates Rubber
05.2003 - 06.2005
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- 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.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
Armor Crewman
United States Army
05.1999 - 05.2003
- Operated armored vehicles with precision and efficiency during combat operations, contributing to the overall success of the unit.
- Maintained high standards of physical fitness to meet the demands of operating in a combat environment.
- Improved crew readiness by conducting comprehensive training sessions on vehicle operations and tactics.
- Participated in numerous joint exercises with allied forces, enhancing cooperation and interoperability between units.
- Streamlined vehicle maintenance processes, resulting in fewer mechanical failures during critical missions.
- Reduced maintenance downtime for armored vehicles by performing regular inspections and repairs.
- Increased mission success rate with thorough pre-mission planning and coordination efforts.
- Engaged in reconnaissance, security, and search operations.
- Handled ammunition safely, minimizing risk to fellow crew members and weapon systems.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, MO05-2025
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Three Rivers Community College
Poplar Bluff, MO05-2012
High School Diploma -
Twin Rivers High School
Broseley, MO05-1997
Skills
- Adaptable to change
- Operational efficiency
- Product inspection
- Problem solving skills
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Leadership qualities
- Time management
- Multitasking skills
Timeline
Union Steward
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers
11.2020 - 12.2023
Manufacturing Process Operator
Nestle Purina PetCare
03.2013 - 04.2024
Lumber Sales Associate
Home Depot
12.2012 - 02.2013
Machinist
Specialty Engineering
06.2005 - 05.2011
Vulcanizer
Gates Rubber
05.2003 - 06.2005
Armor Crewman
United States Army
05.1999 - 05.2003
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Southeast Missouri State University
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Three Rivers Community College
High School Diploma -
Twin Rivers High School
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