Managing Director
Hotend Works, Inc.
In this position, I currently serve as Managing Director for an additive manufacturing (AM) company. This company was founded to address an underserved market for advanced materials (advanced ceramics, CMC’s). The company has been responsible for the development of an innovative AM system and the materials used with it in order to serve markets such as aerospace / defense, nuclear, and the high technology business sectors.My role in this company was that of translating the design from concept to manufactured system. This included detailed input on design of the mechanical and electrical systems, leading operating firmware development, testing prototype sub-assemblies for feasibility, as well as utilizing the in-house machine shop for prototype manufacturing.Documentation was created to detail specific manufacturing methods and techniques, bill of materials, and preliminary user manuals/operating guides.Budgetary estimates created and tracked through prototype and final versions.3D solid modeling was used to evaluate dynamic and static performance of structural components as well as their thermal cycling response. The solid models were also utilized for tolerance stack up analysis for critical assemblies and mechanics and for drawing creation for parts and assemblies. GD&T was utilized for part and assembly tolerancing.Preliminary systems were evaluated for key operating requirements such as film deposition performance and reliability, long duration cycle times, overall life estimation of critical mechanisms, as well as operating software stability.Interfaced with external suppliers in order to improve design manufacturability and to lower costs. Also lead the development of supplier relations to facilitate a smooth transition from prototypeproduction runs to higher volume production.I was also the Principal Investigator and external liaison for a DoD STTR Phase I Grant.