Senior Mechanical Test Technician

THOMAS PALLANTE

CAREER SUMMARY

A Senior Mechanical Test Technician with extensive experience in an automotive Tier I supplier environment. Strategic involvement in new product research and development. International and domestic experience in driveline components focused on customer quality and continuous improvement. Knowledge of raw materials and numerous automotive components and systems. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Self-starter with a high energy level.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

GKN DRIVELINE, Auburn Hills, MI 1987-2008

Global leaders in automotive driveline components, including FWD, 4WD, RWD components; sideshafts, propeller shafts and CV joints.

Senior Mechanical Test Technician, High Speed 2004-2008

Responsible for high speed testing of constant velocity joint boots, used on automotive propeller shafts.

• Reduced costs by modifying propeller boots to fit more than one application.

• Submitted an invention disclosure for a device that would reduce the amount of grease used in a plunging constant velocity joint by 50%.

• Served as Subject Matter Expert for hydraulics training new employees and colleagues on technique, procedures, data acquisition and safety.

• Tested boots using alternative thermo plastics and rubber to identify material that increased longevity, quality and multiple vehicle use.

• Adhered to specific customer specifications ensuring all requirements were met for maximum customer satisfaction.

• Partnered with Test Engineer developing new and innovative methods for data acquisition.

Senior Mechanical Test Technician, Driveline Systems 1993-2004

Selected for a newly created Driveline Systems department that built prototypes for all wheel drive vehicles. Coordinated testing and prototype building of all-wheel drive systems.

• Developed, implemented and maintained QS 9000 policies and procedures ensuring quality and audit preparedness.

• Analyzed, selected and oversaw installation of all equipment.

o Built prototype unit sent to customers for field and durability testing.

• Selected to train new employees on operation and maintenance of Bridge Cranes ensuring safety regulations were adhered to for OSHA.

• Recruited along with a colleague to transition warranty work to Driveline department.

GKN DRIVELINE, ( continued )

Mechanical Test Technician 1987-1993

Responsible for testing of sideshafts used on automotive vehicles.

• Designed and built a device for quickly setting test angles on durability test machines.

DETROIT TESTING LABORATORY, Oak Park, MI 1979-1987

Conducted physical test analysis for multiple industries including: aerospace, defense and automotive.

Mechanical Test Technician

Responsible for new product, endurance and durability testing.

• Trained in hydraulic repair and maintenance.

• Helped to develop early hydrogen powered automobiles.

MILITARY

US AIR FORCE

Mechanic

Repaired aircraft refueling equipment including trucks and tanker systems.

• Completed multiple courses in automotive, hydraulic, pneumatics, and electrical.

EDUCATION

Diploma, Troy High School

Company Sponsored Training:

MTS Systems, Servo-Hydraulic Equipment.

TCS 3.0 Operating System.

Sperry Vickers, Hydraulic Theory and Principals.

QS9000

ISO14001

Experience with MTS Flextest Operating system.

Experience with Microsoft Office Works.

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