David L. Clem
*** ********* **** ******* ****, WV 25414 H/C 301-***-****) ***********@*****.*** Summary
Dynamic and highly skilled Senior CNC Programmer with over three decades of experience in precision machining, aerospace, and defense sectors. Expertise in developing and optimizing CNC programs for 3- to 5- axis machining centers, machining aerospace alloys, and maintaining tight tolerances. Adept at interpreting engineering drawings, designing custom fixtures, and reducing cycle times to enhance production efficiency. Proven leader in machine shop management, with a strong track record in equipment maintenance, training personnel, and continuous process improvements. Skilled in Mastercam, FeatureCam, and G-code/M-code programming, delivering consistent, high-quality results in mission-critical environments. Core Proficiencies
• CMMS software
• CNC Programming
• Proficient in Tig Welding
• Mastercam CAD/CAM X9
• Machining Aerospace Alloys
• G-code and M-code Programming
• Engineering Drawing Interpretation
• Machining to Tight Tolerances .001")
• Maintenance and Repair of Machining Equipment
• Feature Cam 2014
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Fixture Design and Setup
• Microsoft Office 2013 Professional
• Engineering Drawing Interpretation
• CAM and Solid Modeling CAD Experience
• Machine Shop Management and Supervision
• Attention to Detail (Machining to Tight Tolerances)
• Setup and Operation of CNC Vertical Machining Centers Professional Experience
Senior CNC Programmer for an Aerospace and Defense job shop contractor 07/2024 to present Pro-Type Inc
As a Senior CNC Programmer for an Aerospace and Defense job shop contractor, I programmed, optimized, and maintained precision CNC machining processes, ensuring high-quality production for complex aerospace components.
Aerospace and Defense job shop contractor:
• Programmed multiple 3- to 5-axis CNC machining centers with pallet tombstone capabilities, delivering precise and efficient production runs.
• Developed and optimized CNC programs for complex aerospace and defense components, reducing cycle times and enhancing part accuracy.
• Provided direct support to machinists by assisting with setups and troubleshooting during production, ensuring smooth operation and minimized downtime.
• Collaborated with the complete machine shop staff, offering technical guidance and expertise throughout the machining process for continuous improvement.
• Ensured CNC programs met engineering specifications and quality standards, resulting in consistently high-quality, precision-manufactured components.
MESO SCALE DISCOVERY specialist 11/2023 to 07/2024 Gaithersburg, MD
As an MESO SCALE DISCOVERY specialist, I focused on developing and optimizing advanced manufacturing solutions for precision components, ensuring high-quality production and adherence to technical standards in the aerospace and defense sectors. efficiency.
• Developed precise CNC programs with Mastercam 2023, reducing production time and improving part accuracy for complex aerospace components.
• Created optimized setup sheets and quick-change solutions, streamlining operations and minimizing machine downtime during part fabrication.
• Interpreted engineering drawings, ensuring correct part fabrication, which resulted in consistent, high- quality production.
• Selected and ordered specialized tooling, improving machining efficiency for parts with non-standard features.
• Trained shop personnel on equipment operations, enhancing team capabilities and improving overall production throughput.
• Maintained machine shop procedures and preventive maintenance protocols, ensuring equipment reliability and smooth operational flow.
Optical Air Data Systems professional 03/2023 to 09/2023 Manassas, VA
As an Optical Air Data Systems professional, I developed and optimized CNC programs, supported production, and ensured precision in aerospace component fabrication.
• Established CNC vertical machining centers using Mastercam 2023, transforming SolidWorks CAD files into production-ready formats, accelerating turnaround times.
• Programmed the HAAS ST 20 slant bed turning center, enhancing machining accuracy and expanding capabilities for intricate components.
• Designed and produced custom fixtures for complex part machining, improving accuracy and reducing setup times by 30%.
• Machined aerospace alloys to precise tolerances, ensuring adherence to industry standards and delivering high-quality products.
• Conducted regular maintenance on all shop machinery, minimizing equipment failures and enhancing overall operational reliability.
• Managed inventory and daily operations as the sole machinist, optimizing stock levels to ensure a seamless workflow.
CACI Contractor 01/2023 to 03/2023
CARDEROCK West Bethesda, MD
As a CACI Contractor, I contributed to advanced engineering projects by developing and optimizing systems and processes to meet mission requirements.
• Set up CNC vertical machining centers, ensuring efficient production and on-time project completion for complex components.
• Designed and fabricated custom machining fixtures, improving accuracy and reducing setup times for high-precision parts.
• Programmed CNC controls using G and M codes, optimizing fixture construction and improving CAM-generated program efficiency.
• Operated prototype shop machine tools, delivering flexibility and high-quality results across diverse machining tasks.
• Maintained dimensional accuracy within +/- .001” tolerances, ensuring parts met exact specifications using precision measurement tools.
• Interpreted blueprints and applied GD&T specs, ensuring compliance with industry standards and delivering reliable, high-quality products.
KIRA Government Contractor 2022 to 2023
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD
As a KIRA Government Contractor, I supported the development and implementation of advanced aerospace systems, ensuring operational excellence and mission success.
• Delivered project support for machining tasks, ensuring timely completion of walk-in requests and enhancing overall workflow efficiency.
• Analyzed customer step files to determine setups, utilizing FeatureCAM and Mastercam to consistently meet production deadlines.
• Machined space alloys to precise specifications, guaranteeing high-quality standards for critical flight components and enhancing aerospace reliability.
• Developed innovative machining methods for silicon crystals, advancing production capabilities for the Optics Lab and improving component quality.
• Assisted in launching the GSFC Mobile Machine Shop, providing essential support for robotics part repairs during competitions, contributing to event success.
• Operated various CNC machines and provided sole Wire Room support, ensuring consistent high- quality output across multiple critical projects.
ATA Aerospace Contractor 2016 to 2022
Greenbelt, MD
As an ATA Aerospace Contractor, I supported the design, testing, and implementation of advanced aerospace technologies, enhancing operational capabilities for critical missions.
• Machined space alloys with high precision, maintaining strict compliance with aerospace quality standards for critical flight parts.
• Developed innovative methods for machining silicon crystals, significantly enhancing production efficiency for the Optics Lab.
• Supported multiple same-day machining projects, improving workflow efficiency and reducing turnaround times for urgent component needs.
• Analyzed customer files to determine setups, consistently meeting fabrication deadlines with FeatureCAM and Mastercam.
• Assisted in launching the GSFC Mobile Machine Shop, providing essential robotics part repair support during competitions.
• Operated various CNC machines, ensuring high-quality output and efficient manufacturing of critical aerospace components.
Oceaneering International, Inc./ Contractor 2010 to 2016 Greenbelt, MD
As a Contractor at Oceaneering International, Inc, I facilitated the execution of aerospace projects, ensuring adherence to quality standards and contributing to innovative solutions.
• Reviewed electronic files to establish machining setups, ensuring on-time fabrication of parts and meeting customer deadlines.
• Machined space alloys with precision, producing critical flight components that met stringent aerospace quality standards.
• Operated CNC machines, providing sole EDM Wire Room support and maintaining consistent high- quality production output.
• Developed technologies for machining silicon crystals, enhancing efficiency and precision in the Optics Lab.
• Completed emergency jobs promptly, aiding the Shop Lead with quoting wire features and ensuring timely project completion.
• Led the GSFC Mobile Machine Shop implementation, providing essential support for robotics part repairs during competitions.
CNC Programmer 2009 to 2010
Hal-Pro Inc Rockville, MD
As a CNC Programmer, I developed and optimized machining programs for CNC equipment, ensuring precision manufacturing and adherence to quality standards.
• Maintained precision measuring tools and performed routine machine maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and promoting a safe work environment.
• Utilized FeatureCam 2010 to create and modify programs, enhancing efficiency and consistently meeting deadlines for part production.
• Operated CNC milling centers, ensuring precise machining of complex parts, which improved overall production quality and reduced errors.
• Machined oversized parts by pinning and relocating materials, increasing production capabilities and minimizing material waste effectively.
• Reprogrammed existing Smart Cam programs, boosting productivity and throughput for manufacturing processes by improving workflow efficiency.
• Reviewed electronic files and blueprints to ensure accurate setups, leading to streamlined operations and timely fabrication of parts.
NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR) 1990 to 2009 Mechanical Engineering Technician Gaithersburg, MD As a Mechanical Engineering Technician, I supported the development and maintenance of experimental systems to optimize neutron research and ensure operational efficiency.
• Ensured precise machining using measuring tools, resulting in high-quality components for successful experimental projects.
• Enhanced capabilities by machining exotic metals, facilitating advanced research applications and material experimentation.
• Improved programming efficiency by creating precise G-code programs in Mastercam X4, reducing production timelines.
• Maintained updated software for Mastercam, ensuring all design tools operated effectively and supported project needs.
• Achieved consistent project deadlines through expert operation of CNC milling and turning centers.
• Optimized workspace efficiency by designing a new shop floor plan for the machine shop's relocation and expansion.
Vacuum services to support 24/7 operations of NCNR lab: As a Vacuum Services Technician, I support the 24/7 operations of the NCNR lab by ensuring optimal vacuum systems for experimental research.
• Oversaw the maintenance of over 250 vacuum pumps and high vacuum systems, ensuring reliable operation for 24/7 laboratory functions.
• Established a preventive maintenance program using CMMS software, which enhanced equipment performance and minimized unscheduled downtime.
• Executed scheduled oil changes according to maintenance intervals, improving the efficiency and reliability of vacuum systems.
• Contributed to the design of the NIST Standard high vacuum pumping system, enhancing laboratory capabilities and operational effectiveness.
• Rebuilt mechanical vacuum pumps, restoring optimal performance and extending equipment lifespan through skilled technical work.
• Maintained a comprehensive inventory of rebuild kits and spare pumps, ensuring quick repairs and minimizing operational interruptions.
Installation and Maintenance Technician for Neutron Scattering Instrumentation As an Installation and Maintenance Technician for Neutron Scattering Instrumentation, I ensured the optimal performance and reliability of complex instrumentation through expert installation, regular maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Installed delicate neutron instruments with overhead cranes, ensuring precise alignment and minimizing operational disruptions.
• Repaired neutron velocity selectors, improving instrumentation efficiency and performance.
• Removed and re-installed the reactor cold source, ensuring seamless maintenance and operational continuity.
• Constructed shielding structures, enhancing safety and optimizing neutron research environments.
• Fabricated neutron/gamma shielding for the cold reactor, achieving a perfect fit and maximizing radiation protection.
Contracting Officer Representative (COTR)
As a Contracting Officer Representative (COTR), I oversaw contract management and ensured compliance with project specifications and regulations.
• Conducted regular contract reviews, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints and project timelines.
• Obtained COTR/POC Certificate of Eligibility, enhancing procurement capabilities and compliance standards.
• Drafted procurement contracts, including detailed statements of work and technical specifications, streamlining machine shop equipment and vacuum system purchases.
• Acted as technical point of contact for incoming shipments, ensuring compliance with contract specifications and maintaining quality standards.
• Collaborated with stakeholders to identify equipment needs, resulting in optimized procurement processes and improved project efficiency.
Electrical and Material Handling Technician:
As an Electrical and Material Handling Technician, I supported the design and implementation of electrical systems while managing the safe handling of materials and equipment for research operations.
• Diagnosed and replaced bearings on AC motors, reducing downtime caused by bearing failures.
• Installed, troubleshot, and repaired three-phase industrial wiring and motor controls, enhancing operational efficiency and system reliability.
• Relocated large loads using tractors, flatbed trailers, and forklifts, ensuring timely material handling on site.
• Followed proper rigging and safety guidelines for lifting with overhead cranes, maintaining a safe work environment.
• Machined replacement parts for aging overhead cranes, ensuring continued operation despite unavailability of manufacturer parts.
User Machine Shop Trainer
As a User Machine Shop Trainer, I provided instruction and support to users in machine shop operations, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and optimal machining practices.
• Trained NCNR staff and users on machine shop operations, enhancing safety and efficiency in machining practices.
• Assisted co-workers and staff with technical and machining issues, fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring smooth operations.
• Developed comprehensive training materials for machine shop procedures, increasing user competency and reducing operational errors.
• Implemented regular safety audits and machine maintenance checks, promoting a culture of safety and extending equipment lifespan.
• Facilitated hands-on workshops for advanced machining techniques, improving staff skill sets and enhancing overall productivity in the shop.
Machine Shop Instructor 2000 to 2003
Frederick County Career and Technology Center Frederick, MD As a Machine Shop Instructor, I developed and delivered hands-on training programs to equip students with essential machining skills and safety protocols.
• Developed a comprehensive curriculum for machine shop operations, enhancing student engagement and improving skill acquisition.
• Instructed students on proper machining techniques and safety protocols, resulting in a significant reduction in accidents.
• Implemented hands-on training sessions using CNC machinery, which increased students' proficiency and confidence in operating complex equipment.
• Assessed student performance through practical evaluations, ensuring that all learners met industry standards for machining skills.
• Collaborated with local businesses to create internship opportunities, providing students with real- world experience and fostering community partnerships.
• Mentored students in project-based learning, leading to successful completion of individual projects showcased at school events.
Education
Journeyman Machinist
Department of Economic and Employment Development
Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Council
Honors And Awards
Department of Commerce
15 Year Service Award August 13, 2005
Oceaneering International, Inc.
2 Year Service Award October 2012
Space Shuttle Program Manager’s Commendation
For work on the payload of the Atlantis, STS-135 August 2011 Professional Training
Machine/CAD Training: Completion:
Journeymen Machinist
Frederick Community College (Vo Tech)
September 1987 to May 1990
Brother HS Series CNC EDM Machining Centers
Charmilles Technologies Corp
May 7, 1999
Mastercam 2D Training
Prism Engineering Inc
April 25, 2001
Wire Training Course
Prism Engineering Inc
July 25, 2001
Mastercam 2D Training, Version X2
Prism Engineering, Inc
February 7, 2007
Mastercam Lathe Training, Version X3
Prism Engineering, Inc
October 29, 2008
Advanced 3D FeatureCam Training
TriMech Manufacturing
February 16, 2001
CUT 300 Wire EDM Training
Agie Charmilles
January 10, 2014
EDM Electrode Technology Training
Poco-Graphite
March 8, 2015
Vacuum Services Training:
Practical Vacuum Technology
Edwards High Vacuum International
April 24, 1997
Fundamentals of Vacuum Technology
American Vacuum Society
November 2, 1998
Operations and Maintenance of Vacuum pumping systems American Vacuum Society
June 16, 1999
Total Pressure Gauging Techniques
American Vacuum Society
October 2, 2000
Cryo pump Technology
American Vacuum Society
October 3, 2000
Recent Advances in Vacuum Technology
American Vacuum Society
October 6, 2000
COTR/POC Training:
COTR Level 1
Housman & Associates
January 14, 2004
Contracting Officer's Technical Representative
Department of Commerce COTR Certification Program
April 22, 2004
Simplified Acquisition Procedures (CON237) Section 326 Defense Acquisition University
October 26, 2005
Point of Contact Training
Department of Commerce COTR Program
April 11, 2006
Electrical and Material Handling:
Overhead Crane Operator Training
Overhead crane training
April 2, 1993
Mechanical Drives
National Technology Transfer, Inc.
October 10, 1996
Basics of Industrial Electricity
National Technology Transfer, Inc.
October 22, 1998
Overhead & Gantry Cranes 29CFR1910.179
Slings 29CFR1910.184
The Bright Group USA LLC
February 6, 2009
Certifications
• OSIRIS – REX Visible and Infrared Spectrometer NASA GSFC November 2014
• For the Part Programmers course for the Mazak CNC machining center. Equipped with MAZATROL MATRIX. October 2015