Melinda Sutton
Binghamton, NY *****
************@*****.***
Professional Summary
A compassionate, open-minded, and outgoing professional with a uniquely broad background across multiple fields, I bring a strong work ethic and a nurturing spirit to every role I take on. With experience ranging from food service and team management to direct support in both adult and youth care settings, as well as eight years in welding and work as a recovery peer advocate, I’ve developed exceptional communication, conflict resolution, and active listening skills. Currently serving as a direct support childcare worker and pursuing degrees in Substance Abuse Counseling and Psychology, I am passionate about helping others grow and heal. A fast learner known for my adaptability, professionalism, and warm, motherly energy—with a spark of adventurous fun—I’m looking to relocate and bring my strengths to a new opportunity where I can continue making a positive impact! Willing to relocate: Anywhere
Work Experience
Residential Child Care Worker
Children's Home of Wyoming Conference-Binghamton, NY November 2024 to Present
• Provided direct care and support to children in a residential setting, ensuring their safety, well-being, and emotional development
• Implemented individualized treatment plans for each child, addressing their unique needs and goals
• Established positive relationships with children by offering guidance, encouragement, and emotional support
• Assisted children with daily activities such as personal hygiene routines, meal preparation, and medication administration
• Created a structured environment that promoted positive behavior management techniques and conflict resolution skills
• Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team including therapists, social workers, and educators to develop comprehensive care plans for each child
• Monitored the progress of children's treatment goals through regular observation and documentation
• Organized recreational activities and outings to promote socialization skills and provide opportunities for learning outside of the facility
Suicide Prevention/Crisis Specialist
Suicide Prevention and Crisis Services-Ithaca, NY
July 2024 to Present
• Provided immediate crisis intervention and support to individuals experiencing mental health crises
• Assessed clients' needs and developed personalized safety plans to ensure their well-being
• Collaborated with law enforcement, medical professionals, and other community resources to coordinate appropriate care for clients in crisis
• Delivered compassionate counseling services to individuals of diverse backgrounds, fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment
• Responded promptly to crisis calls and effectively managed high-stress situations with professionalism and empathy
• Utilized active listening skills to understand clients' concerns, validate their emotions, and provide appropriate guidance
• Documented all client interactions accurately and maintained confidentiality of sensitive information in compliance with legal requirements
• Coordinated follow-up care for clients after crisis resolution, connecting them with ongoing mental health services as needed
• Participated in regular training sessions to enhance knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and stay updated on best practices in the field
CRPA Peer Advocate
The Addiction Center of Broome County-Binghamton, NY March 2024 to August 2024
• Provided one-on-one support and guidance to individuals in recovery from substance abuse, helping them navigate challenges and develop coping strategies
• Collaborated with treatment teams to develop individualized recovery plans for clients, incorporating evidence-based practices and client goals
• Assisted clients in accessing community resources such as housing assistance, employment services, and healthcare providers to support their overall well-being
• Advocated for clients' rights and needs within the healthcare system, ensuring they received appropriate care and treatment
• Maintained accurate documentation of client progress, including assessments, treatment plans, case notes, and discharge summaries
• Participated in regular team meetings to discuss client progress, coordinate care efforts, and address any challenges or concerns
• Provided crisis intervention services when necessary by assessing risk factors and implementing appropriate interventions to ensure safety
• Supported clients in developing relapse prevention strategies through education on triggers, coping skills development, and ongoing support
CNC Machine Operator
GEORGE INDUSTRIES-Endicott, NY
January 2023 to April 2023
• Performed routine maintenance and troubleshooting on CNC machines to ensure optimal performance
• Operated CNC machines to produce precision parts according to specifications
• Monitored machine operations, making adjustments as necessary to maintain quality standards
• Inspected finished products for accuracy, ensuring they met all quality control standards
• Collaborated with engineers and designers to review blueprints and technical drawings for machining requirements
Welder/Fabricator
The Raymond Corporation-Greene, NY
March 2022 to November 2022
As
• Performed MIG welding on various metal components, ensuring high-quality welds and adherence to specifications
• Operated welding equipment such as MIG welders, grinders, and torches in a safe and efficient manner
• Interpreted blueprints and technical drawings to determine welding requirements and procedures
• Maintained a clean and organized work area to promote safety and efficiency
• Inspected welded joints for defects or imperfections, making necessary adjustments or repairs as needed
• Collaborated with team members to plan and prioritize welding projects based on production schedules
• Utilized measuring tools such as calipers, gauges, and rulers to ensure accurate dimensions of welded parts
• Followed established quality control processes to meet industry standards for strength, durability, and appearance of welds
• Adhered to all safety protocols including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times
Welder/Fabricator
Weco Manufacturing-Ontario, NY
November 2019 to April 2020
• Performed TIG and MIG welding on various metal components, ensuring high-quality welds and adherence to specifications
• Interpreted blueprints, drawings, and welding symbols to determine proper welding techniques and parameters
• Operated welding equipment such as TIG torches, MIG guns, grinders, and plasma cutters with precision and safety
• Inspected welded joints for defects or imperfections using visual inspection methods and non- destructive testing techniques
• Collaborated with engineering team to develop efficient welding procedures for new projects
• Maintained a clean and organized work area to ensure safety and efficiency in the welding process
• Completed assigned tasks within specified timeframes while maintaining high quality standards
• Operated overhead cranes or forklifts to move heavy metal components as needed
• Adhered strictly to project deadlines without compromising quality of work Bartender/Server
Battle street brewery-Dansville, NY
February 2019 to September 2019
• Created and mixed a variety of cocktails, adhering to recipes and ensuring consistent quality
• Provided exceptional customer service by engaging with patrons, taking orders, and delivering drinks in a timely manner
• Maintained cleanliness and organization of the bar area, including restocking supplies and cleaning glassware
• Prepared garnishes for cocktails and ensured they were visually appealing
• Collaborated with kitchen staff to coordinate food orders with drink orders for optimal customer experience
• Managed cash transactions accurately, handling payments and providing change to customers
• Demonstrated knowledge of different types of beer, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages to make recommendations based on customer preferences
• Adhered to all safety regulations regarding alcohol consumption and served responsibly according to legal drinking age guidelines
Server
Denny's-Geneseo, NY
July 2018 to May 2019
• Provided exceptional service to late-night patrons, ensuring a positive dining experience
• Efficiently managed a high volume of orders during overnight shifts, accurately delivering meals to customers
• Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely preparation and delivery of food items
• Maintained cleanliness and organization of the dining area throughout the night, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests
• Demonstrated strong knowledge of menu items and specials, effectively making recommendations to customers
• Handled cash transactions and processed payments accurately at the end of each shift
• Adhered to all health and safety regulations while handling food and beverages during overnight hours
• Assisted in restocking inventory and replenishing supplies as needed during quiet periods
• Managed guest reservations and seating arrangements efficiently during busy nights Welder
CorCraft Industries-Albion, NY
May 2016 to June 2018
At Core Craft Industries, I began my journey as a welder, where I acquired valuable skills and experience in various welding techniques. Starting with basic tasks, I initially focused on MIG welding tasks, including welding tacks on trash cans for New York City and constructing grills for New York State parks. These projects provided me with hands-on experience and the opportunity to refine my welding abilities. As I progressed in my role, I expanded my expertise to include long welds and short welds, gradually mastering different welding methods such as TIG welding and stick welding. Through dedicated practice and continuous learning, I honed my welding skills and successfully completed my welding certificate, validating my proficiency in the field.
During my time at Core Craft Industries, I also developed the ability to interpret and work with blueprints, enhancing my understanding of project requirements and specifications. This comprehensive training and hands-on experience allowed me to advance to having my own welding booth, where I continued to apply my knowledge and skills in welding to contribute to the company's projects effectively.
• Performed various welding techniques including MIG, TIG, and stick welding to join metal components
• Interpreted blueprints, drawings, and specifications to determine welding requirements
• Operated and maintained welding equipment such as welders, torches, grinders, and plasma cutters
• Ensured proper safety measures were followed at all times during the welding process Assistant Manager
T.G.I Fridays-Vestal-NY
February 2011 to August 2017
• Prepare and serve drinks to customers in a timely and friendly manner
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bar area
• Interact with customers and provide excellent customer service
• Handle cash transactions and maintain accurate cash handling
• Monitor and control inventory of bar supplies
• Assist in training and supervising bar staff
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations
• Assist the manager in day-to-day operations and decision
• Assisted in the management of daily operations, ensuring smooth and efficient workflow
• Supervised and trained a team of XX employees, providing guidance and support to maximize productivity
• Collaborated with the manager to develop strategies for achieving sales targets and improving customer satisfaction
• Conducted regular inventory checks to maintain accurate stock levels and minimize loss due to shrinkage
• Resolved customer complaints or concerns promptly, ensuring high levels of customer service at all times
• Assumed managerial responsibilities in the absence of the manager, overseeing all aspects of operations
• Developed strong relationships with vendors and suppliers, negotiating favorable terms for procurement of goods
• Created training materials and conducted training sessions for new hires on company policies and procedures
• Analyzed sales data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement, implementing effective strategies accordingly
Education
Associate's degree in Chemical dependency CASAC
SUNY Broome Community College-Binghamton, NY
January 2024 to Present
SUNY Broome Community College-Binghamton, NY
August 2022 to January 2023
Corcraft industries-Albion, NY
May 2016 to June 2018
Skills
• Welding
• Machining
• Mentoring
• Care plans
• 5S
• Computer skills (5 years)
• CNC
• Stamping Press
• Quality Inspection
• Press Brake Machine
• Perform under pressure (10+ years)
• Calipers
• Blueprint Reading
• Great team player (10+ years)
• Conflict management (8 years)
• Abuse counseling
• Assembly
• Manufacturing
• Lean Six Sigma (2 years)
• Time management (10+ years)
• CPR (5 years)
• Program Development
• Fabrication
• Effective communication (10+ years)
• Micrometer
• Lean Manufacturing
Certifications and Licenses
TCI trauma in care
December 2024 to Present
TCI or trauma informed care
ASIST suicide prevention
July 2024 to Present
This certifies i have been professionally trained to assist in crisis and suicide prevention and intervention First Aid Certification
Driver's License
CPR Certification
December 2024 to December 2026
Welding Certification