I help people maintain or regain their freedom of movement.

• Developed, validated and implemented new manufacturing processes and inspection techniques for ceramic medical devices. • Continuously improved existing processes using Lean Manufacturing concepts and Six Sigma methodologies such as 5S, Poka-Yoke, SMED, Value Stream Mapping, DMAIC and statistical analysis to increase product quality, reliability and safety while reducing cycle time and cost. • Characterized and analyzed materials and products using the following tools: coordinate measuring machine (CMM), optical microscopes, contact profilometer and acoustic emission system.• Tested materials, prototypes and finished products using universal test machines (Instron) and strain gages to measure mechanical properties such as strength, fracture toughness and elastic modulus.• Utilized design of experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis software (Minitab) to review experimental data, analyze results and form conclusions. • Designed, analyzed and optimized prototype designs, mechanical test fixtures and apparatuses using CAD (SOLIDWORKS) and FEA (ANSYS) software. • Developed and implemented proof testing of ceramic spinal implants for improved product safety, quality and reliability. • Authored and contributed to test protocols and reports, presentations, standard operating procedures (SOPs), peer-reviewed publications and patents (see below).• Supported regulatory (FDA & ISO 13485) requirements through compliance with the company’s quality management system (QMS).

• Characterized and analyzed raw materials and advanced ceramics using the following analytical tools: scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy, universal test machines, hardness testers and digital image analysis. • Developed and improved ceramic powder processes to optimize properties of dense and porous ceramic bodies. • Operated and programmed various equipment including plasma etcher, hot press, cold isostatic press, and several different types of furnaces.• Authored and contributed to technical reports, memos, presentations, peer-reviewed publications and patents (see below).• Utilized design of experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis software (JMP) to review experimental data, analyze results and form conclusions. • Performed literature and patent searches to explore current areas of development and potential areas for future development.

• Operated and programmed various equipment including curing ovens and filament winding machines.• Measured and inspected finished product to ensure quality requirements were met. • Maintained a safe work environment through the proper use and handling of chemicals.