Michael Serda Email & Phone Number

Bakersfield, California, United States

I initially served as a general laborer for MTZ engaged in construction projects across various California Elementary and High Schools. Recognizing my adeptness within the construction sphere, my supervisor swiftly facilitated my transition from laborer to specialized positions in plumbing and electrical work. My core duties included operation of heavy equipment, trenching, backfilling, layout and installation of underground water lines and electrical conduit. Moreover, I pulled electrical wire spanning in size from 12 Gauge to MC-500 cable. I also installed breaker panels and industrial transformers. My background in design furnished me with a distinct advantage, enabling me to seamlessly align project execution with engineering plans and fulfill the precise requirements stipulated by County Inspectors for approval. Due to unfortunate circumstances, MTZ closed their doors.

Lost Hills, California, United States

Exclusively utilizing Inventor for 3D modeling, I embarked on this journey with a solid foundation in AutoCAD 2D & 3D but no prior experience in Inventor. As I delved into Autodesk Inventor, I was entrusted with the pivotal task of reimagining a crucial piece of processing equipment known as a detwigger. The result exceeded all expectations, boasting unparalleled advancements in processing speed, capacity, and overall efficiency. This groundbreaking achievement became a cornerstone in our operations, swiftly adopted across all WP&A processing facilities. Following the resounding success of the detwigger project, I spearheaded the design of a revolutionary layout for the pistachio processing facility, Huller 3. Tasked with optimizing efficiency within a $40M budget, we not only delivered a state-of-the-art facility but also exceeded expectations by finalizing the project under budget, totaling $37.8M. Huller 3 set a new standard within the industry, surpassing all previous records in pistachios processed per day, water and electrical efficiency, yield loss reduction, and compact footprint. Subsequently, I collaborated with the Safety team to develop comprehensive Potential Hazard Maps and Safety Equipment Location Maps for WP&A buildings across California. By seamlessly integrating these maps into the Master 2D layout, I produced a detailed updated blueprint of the Lost Hills plant, which proved invaluable for various departments. Recognizing the utility of these maps, I was entrusted with replicating the process for five additional WP&A locations. Additionally, I partnered with the Training Department to create a series of instructional videos covering WP&A design standards, mechanical design principles, and other essential materials for new hires. This initiative aimed to streamline onboarding processes and ensure consistency in training across the organization.

Bakersfield, California, United States

My time at Stantec, transitioning from years in Agriculture to the Oil & Gas Industry, provided me with an opportunity to learn a new industry. Initially serving as a draftsman, I advanced to the role of designer over the course of employment. My primary responsibilities revolved around utilizing AutoCAD & AutoCAD Map to generate Process & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID’s), Process Flow Diagrams (PFD’s), Plot Plans, and intricate 2D maps of Chevron's network of pipelines across multiple sites in California. A fundamental aspect of my role involved venturing into the field to hand draft P&ID’s of every Gauge Setting where various wells converged into the main production lines. Meticulously, I traversed each line, capturing detailed documentation and photographs for future reference. The P&ID’s included critical data such as piping specifications, flow direction, fittings, gauges, pipe pressure ratings, etc. Subsequently, I tediously translated my field sketches into digital renditions using AutoCAD, ensuring precise accuracy of every fitting type and size while including the proper route for each individual pipeline. This process of drafting a detailed P&ID for all Gauge Settings demanded seamless teamwork between project managers, engineers, clients, draftsman and designers. I navigated the intricate workflow by prioritizing efficiency and precision. My commitment to meeting project timelines was unwavering, often necessitating extra hours to ensure timely completion. Throughout this process I gained extensive field experience and underwent rigorous safety training, ensuring compliance within Chevron & Aera regulations. As I transitioned to the mapping team, I began documenting the precise locations of every live and abandoned pipelines running through Coalinga and San Ardo. I accomplished this task by employing aerial image x-references, tape measures, and existing maps. My tenure concluded when oil prices crashed despite my consistent dedication and performance.

Bakersfield, California, United States

My journey with Industrial Design began in a dynamic, family-owned business environment where I initially started as a summer employee during high school. Over the years, my dedication and eagerness to learn propelled me forward, leading me to embrace various roles and responsibilities within the company. Starting as a broom-pusher, I inquisitively immersed myself in the intricacies of fabrication, spending countless hours after work refining my skills in welding and blueprint interpretation. This commitment led to my progression as a skilled metal fabricator, contributing to the construction of essential infrastructure such as catwalks, fumigation chambers, and ducting vital for agricultural operations. Seeking to broaden my expertise, I ventured from the shop into fieldwork, where I played a pivotal role in erecting grain storage silos and grain dryers across multiple agriculture plants throughout California. Through dedication and collaboration with my foreman, I quickly ascended to a leadership position, breaking company records in dryer completion rates. Driven by an opportunity from the company owner and my passion for continual growth, I pursued further education in AutoCAD and Hand Drafting. This academic achievement facilitated my transition to working exclusively in the office, where I played a central role in designing plans for new plants and expansions of existing facilities. Additionally, I navigated the process of obtaining county approvals, ensuring compliance within stringent regulations. My office experience provided invaluable insights into business operations, strategic decision-making and effective communication. My tenure at Industrial Design & Construction has cultivated a diverse skill set including design proficiency, project management skills, and a problem-solving mindset essential for organizational success.