Belleville, Michigan, United States
I am a craftsman who specializes in systems architecture, systems engineering, and the creation of system models using SysML. I operate the Systems Architecture Guild YouTube channel as a service to the systems engineering and modeling community. To use a quote from IDEO, I am a "T-shaped" person, with a broad span of knowledge coupled with key areas of depth. My background includes systems architecture and engineering, failure analysis, 6 Sigma and quality methodologies, value engineering, test planning and coordination, and the design & release of automotive components. I am passionate about the importance of good systems architecture and engineering to ensure the success of products. I am one of a handful of individuals to have both the Expert Systems Engineering Professional and OMG Certified Systems Modeling Professional-Model Builder Advanced certifications and am committed to helping realize the full potential of the emerging discipline of Model-Based Systems Engineering. My father was a tool & die maker, so I easily relate to most skilled tradesmen (since I am "fairly handy for a college guy") and understand the realities of successfully executing designs. I believe that the craftsman model that worked for centuries in the skilled trades is equally applicable to system modeling; I independently adopted a number of practices that are similar to the software craftsmanship movement (see Mancuso's book on the topic). I am comfortable speaking to large groups (routinely emceeing local events with dozens of dignitaries in attendance) and have excellent written and oral communications skills. I regularly teach systems architecture and engineering to colleagues as well as students (in my role as an adjunct professor).
Visiting Professor for Systems Architecture
• Instructor for MENG 5925 and MENG 5955 (Basic and Advanced SysML Modeling) • Former Instructor for MPD 5050 (Systems Architecture) and MPD 5100 (Systems Engineering) • Co-interviewer and lead video editor for UDM/Keen Technical Entrepreneurship Case Study Program. • Teaching Assistant for Master of Product Development Program. • Taught Engineering Management 570: Systems Architecture and Systems Engineering, part of the Master of Engineering Management Program. • Taught Advanced Electric Vehicle 5060: Architecture and Innovation for Advanced Electric Vehicles.
Lead System Modeler (SysML) for a defense program. I am an advanced user of MagicDraw for modeling systems and architectures in SysML. As of November 2016, I am also the Quality Advisor responsible for the launch of ISO 9001 at Booz Allen's Troy, MI office.
• Developed and executed carpet, floor mat, and interior acoustic components and systems for Ford and Lincoln sedans valued at $1 million annually. • Developed new components by managing Ford studio, seven supplier teams, and Ford Vehicle Operations production personnel resulting in improved quality, brand image, and customer satisfaction. • Launched programs at the Chicago and Oakville, Canada assembly plants resulting in delivery on time and within quality and cost targets.
• Identified, developed, and implemented value engineering design changes for interior trim systems for the Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Town Car, Expedition, and Navigator vehicle lines. • Assured compliance with specifications, regulatory requirements, and value engineering initiatives.
• Developed hard interior trim for the F-150, Ranger, and F-150 Harley-Davidson. • Developed new components by managing design studio, supplier, and production personnel. • Assured compliance with specifications, regulatory requirements, and value initiatives.