Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Interests
Timeline
Generic

Steven Shepard

Erie

Summary

Innovative Tool Maker skilled in CNC programming and precision machining. Known for strong problem-solving abilities and meticulous attention to detail, contributing to streamlined production workflows and high-quality outcomes.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Tool Maker

Lake Erie Tool Works
05.2025 - 12.2025
  • Executed fabrication of components using precision tools as per established specifications.
  • Fabricated and verified tooling fixtures to enhance quality assurance processes.
  • Coordinated with team members to identify and resolve production challenges.
  • Oversaw tool inventory and enforced proper equipment storage protocols.

CNC Programmer/Setup Operator

Munot Tool & Design
04.2023 - 05.2025
  • Developed CNC programs to produce high-precision components for diverse manufacturing projects.
  • Operated CNC machinery, ensuring adherence to quality standards and specifications.
  • Collaborated with engineering teams to troubleshoot and optimize machining processes.
  • Conducted regular maintenance on CNC equipment to minimize downtime and enhance productivity.
  • Applied accepted geometric dimension and tolerance (GD&T) standards to projects to maintain sound structural integrity.
  • Checked completed programs by running simulations and tests while preparing geometric layout of designs using task-specific software.
  • Collaborated with engineering teams to design and execute precise CNC programs for new product prototypes.
  • Adapted quickly to new CNC technologies and software, ensuring company remained at forefront of manufacturing innovations.
  • Improved product quality by refining CNC programming parameters based on feedback and testing results.
  • Collaborated with engineering team to optimize CNC machining processes.
  • Identified required reference points, paths and hole locations for pieces.
  • Maintained detailed records of setup procedures, documenting any changes or modifications made during operation for future reference.
  • Regularly inspected machinery for wear and tear, initiating repairs when needed to extend equipment lifespan.
  • Reduced machine downtime through timely troubleshooting and problem-solving techniques.
  • Maintained organized work area by cleaning and removing hazards.
  • Made sure that products were produced on time and are of good quality.
  • Met production targets and tight deadlines by collaborating closely with team members.

Tool Maker/Programmer

Knox Western
03.2022 - 04.2023
  • Interpreted blueprints and technical drawings to ensure accurate fabrication.
  • Assembled tool parts using hand tools and machinery to meet quality standards.
  • Collaborated with engineers to optimize design specifications for tooling projects.
  • Conducted routine maintenance on equipment to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Implemented quality control measures to identify and rectify defects in tooling processes.
  • Assisted in training new team members on safe operation of machinery and tools.
  • Participated in continuous improvement initiatives to streamline production workflows.
  • Ensured accurate measurements for tool making with the use of micrometers, calipers, and other precision measuring instruments.
  • Utilized expertise in materials science when selecting appropriate raw materials for tool making, optimizing performance, and durability in various applications.
  • Maintained clear communication with team members throughout projects to ensure all requirements were met accurately and efficiently.
  • Developed new project tooling to meet exact tolerances.
  • Improved production efficiency by maintaining and repairing precision tooling components.
  • Reduced downtime and increased productivity by promptly troubleshooting and resolving technical issues in the manufacturing process.
  • Requisitioned replacement tools, parts, and equipment.
  • Participated in cross-functional teams to develop solutions for complex manufacturing challenges that improved workflow speed while maintaining high-quality standards.
  • Implemented continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing current processes and suggesting enhancements for greater efficiency.
  • Utilized CAD software to create detailed drawings of parts before manufacturing them using CNC machines or manual methods as required.
  • Collaborated with engineers to design, build, and test new tools for better performance in various applications.
  • Conducted root cause analysis on recurring issues within the production process leading to targeted improvements which resulted in minimization of defects produced.
  • Inspected final products for quality and functionality.
  • Read and stuck to detailed production schedules.
  • Managed proper storage, handling, and labeling of hazardous materials.
  • Assembled, maintained, and operated drill presses to drill holes in products throughout assembly.
  • Measured and scribed plastic and metal stock with extreme accuracy to prepare for automated machine production.
  • Assessed need and resourcefully designed jigs, fixtures, and templates to aid in production efficiency.
  • Conceptualized and designed new products using computer software and 3D imaging to assess validity.
  • Computed dimensions, shapes, and specific sizes for dies based on design outlines.
  • Polished and refined tool surfaces, both flat and contoured using abrasive stones, power grinders, and emery cloths.
  • Coordinated and planned operation sequences based on blueprint and model schematics.
  • Created blueprints for new tool designs.

Tool Maker

Lamjen
10.2021 - 03.2022
  • Operated precision tools to fabricate components according to specifications.
  • Assembled and tested tooling fixtures for quality assurance processes.
  • Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot and resolve production issues.
  • Maintained tool inventory and ensured proper storage of equipment.
  • Assisted in the setup and calibration of machinery for production runs.
  • Participated in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance workflow efficiency.
  • Kept track of material and supply inventories.
  • Adjusted and ground dies, tools, and parts after production to assure quality control and usability.
  • Ensured accurate measurements for tool making with the use of micrometers, calipers, and other precision measuring instruments.
  • Requisitioned replacement tools, parts, and equipment.

CNC Machinist

Machining Concepts
04.2019 - 10.2021
  • Operated CNC machinery to produce precise components according to specifications.
  • Interpreted technical drawings and blueprints for accurate machining processes.
  • Monitored machine performance, adjusting settings to maintain quality standards.
  • Conducted routine maintenance on CNC equipment to ensure operational efficiency.
  • Implemented process improvements that enhanced precision and reduced waste.
  • Led troubleshooting efforts to resolve complex machining issues swiftly and effectively.

Automation Technician

Plastek Group
01.2017 - 04.2019
  • Operated and maintained automated machinery to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
  • Troubleshot technical issues, minimizing downtime and enhancing production continuity.
  • Implemented preventive maintenance protocols to extend equipment lifespan and reduce repair costs.
  • Trained junior technicians on operational best practices, fostering skill development within the team.
  • Conducted regular inspections of automated systems, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations.
  • Collaborated with engineering teams to identify process improvements and optimize automation workflows.
  • Documented maintenance procedures and system updates to maintain accurate records for auditing purposes.

Machinist & Toolmaker

GE
02.2007 - 05.2016
  • Operated CNC machines to produce precision components adhering to strict quality standards.
  • Interpreted technical drawings and specifications for accurate part fabrication.
  • Conducted routine maintenance on machinery to ensure optimal performance and reduce downtime.
  • Collaborated with engineering teams to troubleshoot production issues and implement solutions.
  • Read and interpreted blueprints, technical drawings and schematics to determine parts dimensions.
  • 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.

Tool Maker

Suburban Tool & Die
08.2001 - 01.2007
  • Trimmed blocks and blanks to outlined dimensions with rules, hand saws, and power shears.
  • Selected specific metals and other materials for tools depending on heat tolerance and durability, according to tool functions.
  • Developed new project tooling to meet exact tolerances.
  • Improved production efficiency by maintaining and repairing precision tooling components.
  • Utilized CAD software to create detailed drawings of parts before manufacturing them using CNC machines or manual methods as required.
  • Inspected final products for quality and functionality.

Toolmaker Apprentice

Precision Polymers
08.1995 - 08.2001

Attended night classes at the Erie County Vo-Tech.

Received the hours required on all manual machines.

Bridgeport, Harig surface grinders, Okuma surface griders,

Assembled tools for the plastics industries. Trouble shot when molds didnt run properly.

Education

Tool & Die

Erie County Vocational School
Erie, PA
06-1999

Skills

  • Hand tool safety
  • Measuring
  • Precision machining
  • Mill operation
  • Deburring operations
  • Surface grinding
  • Machine setup
  • Quality inspection
  • Polishing techniques
  • Manual machining
  • CNC programming
  • Lathe operation
  • Metalworking techniques
  • Bench fittings
  • Jigs
  • Blueprint creation
  • Injection molding
  • Material selection
  • Fixture design
  • Geometric dimensioning
  • Use of Micrometers, calipers, Depth Mics, Dial Indicators
  • Height gauges, Scopes
  • Component turning
  • Tool repair history
  • Computer skills
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Reliability
  • Organizational skills
  • Machine operation
  • CNC machine operation
  • Team building
  • Tooling design
  • Self motivation
  • Analytical thinking
  • Parts assembly
  • Quality control

Certification

Certified Toolmaker

Interests

  • Getting involved in local advocacy groups to promote positive change in the community
  • Participating in fundraising events to support local charities, schools, or community projects
  • Offering time and support to shelters for the homeless, women, and animals

Timeline

Tool Maker

Lake Erie Tool Works
05.2025 - 12.2025

CNC Programmer/Setup Operator

Munot Tool & Design
04.2023 - 05.2025

Tool Maker/Programmer

Knox Western
03.2022 - 04.2023

Tool Maker

Lamjen
10.2021 - 03.2022

CNC Machinist

Machining Concepts
04.2019 - 10.2021

Automation Technician

Plastek Group
01.2017 - 04.2019

Machinist & Toolmaker

GE
02.2007 - 05.2016

Tool Maker

Suburban Tool & Die
08.2001 - 01.2007

Toolmaker Apprentice

Precision Polymers
08.1995 - 08.2001

Tool & Die

Erie County Vocational School
Steven Shepard