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Mechanical Engineer | Hands-On Problem Solver | Maker at Heart

Engineer turning ideas into reality with CAD, code, and a toolkit full of hands-on skills.

It's a work in progress but we're getting there.

I'm a mechanical and project engineer with expertise in product development, CAD modeling, and detailed engineering documentation. I specialize in transforming complex concepts into practical, high-precision designs through hands-on problem-solving and advanced engineering tools. In personal projects, I apply these skills to create everything from acrylic light-up signs to functional 3D-printed components using additive manufacturing and laser cutting technologies. My long-term goal is to contribute to the advancement of next-generation spacecraft or defense systems, where I can help solve critical engineering challenges and push the boundaries of innovation.

SOLIDWORKS CAD Mechanical Design Product Prototyping Project Management Technical Documentation User Manuals Product Simulations Fire Suppression Systems Laser Cutting 3D Printing Programming Python Visual Basic Arduino

Functional Prototyping Analytical Problem Solving Hands-On Rapid Code Fluency Supportive Detail Oriented Mechanical Intuition Technical Adaptability Creative

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Cibolo, TX 78108

512-740-4551

Ethan Smith - LinkedIn

Objective and Summary

To obtain a hands-on engineering role where I can be a part of a hard working team and use my well-rounded experiences to help grow the company and gain new experiences. My Background is in design and development both as a technician and engineer in a professional setting across various multimillion dollar projects. 10 years of experience in 3D modeling and CAD software, with another 10 years of experience in subtractive and additive manufacturing skills to bring those designs to life.

Certifications

CSWA, working on CSWP

Experience

Project Engineer - Boss Products July 2024 - Present

Serve as the sole engineer overseeing 3-4 simultaneous projects, including the redesigning fire suppression systems, developing water boosting applications for spark extinguishing, custom tube-fitting solutions, and designs of valves for vacuum systems.
Designed, R&D, prototyping and manufacturing of a water pressurizing pump system from the ground up, to supply high pressure water to spark extinguishing devices.
Redesigned a CO₂ fire suppression system for dust collectors, enhancing fire prevention and explosion protection. Including learning associated codes such as NFPA12, etc.
Created and updated technical documentation across all product lines, including CAD models, STEP files, detailed drawings, installation manuals, and specification sheets, ensuring alignment with NFPA standards.
Delivered both customer-facing equipment and internal process improvements to streamline production efficiency.
Accelerated development cycles through prototyping and testing with 3D printing and in-house fabrication, reducing design bottlenecks.
Assist technicians and warehouse staff, providing engineering input that guides decisions across multiple product lines, assemblies, and installation processes.
Manage projects end-to-end, from concept, compliance, and prototyping through final deployment and documentation.

Design Engineering Technician 2 - Flex, Austin catalyzing Innovation June 2023 - April 2024

Played a pivotal role in the design and development of many multi-million dollar projects by collaborating closely with engineering teams to ensure integration of products and design concepts.
Utilized CAD to create detailed technical drawings, schematics, and models, aiding engineers in the design process.
Conducted testing and analysis of prototypes, resolving design flaws to optimize performance and reliability. Participated in design review meetings by providing insights and recommendations to enhance product functionality and manufacturability.
Maintained documentation of design specifications, test results, and engineering changes, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, quality assurance, and supply chain management to support successful launches of new products and product updates.
Actively contributed to continuous improvement initiatives, implementing process enhancements and best practices to streamline design workflows and increase efficiency.

Education

Louisiana Tech University, Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering 2016 - 2022

Drafting class experience, Caddo Career & Technology Center 2015 - 2016

Machine shop class experience, Caddo Career & Technology Center 2013 - 2015

Relevant Skills

Qualifications and Certificates

Finite Element Analysis
NIMS Measurement, Materials, and Safety Cert

Mechanical Design

Industrial Product/Equipment Development

Fabricating and Prototyping

Additive - SLA / FDM / SLS 3d printers
Subtractive - CNC lathes and mills
Laser cutter engraver / Vacuum Former
Power / Hand tools
Machine Design and Development
PCB Design

Project Management & Documentation

NFPA Standards & Compliance Awareness

Cross-functional Collaboration

SOLIDWORKS / Fusion360 / Sketchup / Blender 3D

Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint

Various 3D printing software

Arduino / Python / Batch / Visual Studio / Solidworks Macros / HTML

MathCAD and MATLAB

Static local website hosting and programming, no AI, wix, or squarespace here.

These are the machines I have sitting around my garage or office room. I use them for some of the projects depicted below.

Harbor Freight Mill

I have a harbor freight mini mill i use for modifying parts. Its been used a few times to aid in finishing the large laser cutter, specifically modifying the glass CO2 laser tube mounts and the gantry.

Omtech K40+

I have an Omtech K40+ for small projects and sales. Used to make keychains, cutting board engravings, flasks. Also used to make cool light up acrylic signs for my dog Musubi.

Redsail 5070 Clone

This is a fixer upper machine, it functions, but not the best. I used the mini mill to modify the Y axis gantry cross beam, and the mounts for the glass CO2 laser tube. Rewiring this was fun. The lights look awesome!

CNC Router

Bought this with the intention of rapid prototyping printed circuit boards for projects like my custom keyboard. Still in development but working good so far. At the time of writing, I am prototyping a Boost PCB design for use in a custom split keyboard for a coworker.

P1S 3D Printer

My Bambu Labs P1S printer used for many things.

MSLA Resin 3D Printer

This is a cool printer. Used it for minis mostly. Doesnt get much use but I've had similar experiences with Formlabs SLA and SLS printers.

Staggered Ortholinear Split Keyboard

Taking inspiration from keybaords I've seen online, I came up with this! its a staggered ortholinear split keyboard. More ergonomic, but I have to relearn how to type.

Washtank

A wash tank for the tube bending operation at my current employer. Designed based on specifications given to me. Holds 500 gallons of water and detergent to remove grease and chips from bent tubes.

Water Pressure Boosting Pump

This is the booster pump mentioned in my resume. I designed, tested, refined, and redesigned for manufacturing. Built from the ground up by me. Worked with other teams such as marketing, purchasing, operations to finish job.

Tyler

This is Tyler, my girlfriend and best friend. She’s funny, caring, and always there for me. I wouldn’t be where I am without her. We like trying new food and playing video games together.

Musubi

Musubi, also called Musu or Moose. He’s independent, energetic, intelligent, and adventurous, and is not a fan of cuddling. He loves wrestling with his sibblings and occasionally redecorating the house with shredded belongings.

Brisket

This is Brisket. Hes a cuddler and loves laying in his beanbag all day. When he’s not doing that, he likes chewing on expensive pillows.

Sesame

Sesame is the newest family member. She's a parvo survivor but we think it fried her brain a little bit, so shes a slow learner. She likes eating rocks and mulch. We can't stop it. We'll take any suggestions to help it. Please.