This comprehensive biography accounts for my work experience and responsibilities over the last 40 years. I meticulously developed this employment biography from writing my resumes as early as 1982, when I entered the tech-industry job market. I never filled out a job application; I was always hired as a temp worker on contract thru what they called back then job shops (temp agencies). It was the preferred way for un-degreed tech workers like myself to get started in the industry. I used to joke about calling temp workers, employment whores, and job-shop recruiters the employer pimps. I never let up and continuously looked for work to stay employed.

Ted's Employment Biography

During the early 1980s, I was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy and worked as a jet mechanic in the civil service for a brief period. Fortunately, my brother Pete assisted me in securing an entry-level draftsman role, despite my lack of experience, aside from a few drafting classes I took in high school. TThis got me out of the grease monkey job and into somethijng I'm more suited for.

As a veteran of the Cold War, I experienced firsthand the impact of the nation's standoff with Russia and China. In Silicon Valley, the focus was on developing national defense and homeland security technologies. One of the significant industries thriving in the area was satellite communication, driven by President Ronald Reagan's Star Wars initiative, which aimed to develop satellites that could detect and shoot down incoming ballistic threats. This led to a surge in work and funding for companies like Lockheed and FMC, which benefited smaller companies in their support network. It was a time when finding a job in the industry was relatively easy.

From my recollection, the development of the Internet started as a way for military installations and missile silos to communicate electronically. However, this technology eventually became available for public use as an open source, allowing the private sector to expand and prosper. This led to the Dot-Com boom, which began with intercompany communication through email and modem-based home-to-work communication. Private domains like AOL (America On-Line) and Netscape were then created for online social communication via email. The boom escalated when major retail companies took their businesses online, causing a frenzy that resembled a tsunami-like explosion.

1991 the Cold War ended as the Dot-Com era began taking off. The Iron Curtain between East and West Germany was dismantled, and the Soviet Union was disintegrating into separate republics. This marked a technological victory for Reagan's administration, and many defense-related tech companies began to downsize due to decreased government funding. As a result, the industry became more competitive, and adaptation to change became crucial for survival.

The field of engineering drafting design underwent a significant shift, transitioning from traditional hand-drawn sketches to computerized drawings using CAD (Computer-Aided Design). Autocad emerged as the most widely used program. However, some veteran designers resisted this change and preferred to stick to their traditional methods, reflecting the saying, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks." They were comfortable with their established techniques, but I embraced using computers in my work.

In the past, the manual approach to drawing creation proved faster than CAD, which took more time. This led to a divide between seasoned designers and new engineers who believed that CAD would ultimately replace drafters and designers. Some experienced individuals were upset as it posed a threat to their livelihood. As a tech-savvy individual, I didn't mind the discussions but observed and learned from them. It became clear that drafters and designers were the best candidates to create computerized drawings, which proved true.

Knowing how to create engineering sketches on a computer is just the beginning of engineering drawings. Drawing standards are implemented to ensure companies can effectively communicate with the U.S. government and other countries. Machinists and fabricators also have their drawing standards. The ultimate goal is to achieve clear engineering communication so that instructions are easily understood, and everyone is on the same page. You must include more than everything on a drawing and expect others to know how to build something. Many engineers found this frustrating and preferred to focus solely on engineering, leaving the drawing standards to designers and drafters. As a result, collaboration between engineering and design became crucial in the industry.

 

Silicon Valley

An ESTABLISHED CULTURE: With a reputation for hi-tech Silicon Valley continues to amaze the world with creative innovations. Silicon Valley stands out from other regions that are recognized for their steelworkers, auto workers, and the like, as it is renowned for its innovative and advanced technological ecosystem that lures some of the most brilliant tech experts from all corners of the globe. Corporations flock to this hub to harness this incomparable resource. The perpetual development of the latest technology in this valley is astounding.

Living in the San Francisco Bay Area, one can sense the dynamic and innovative spirit that permeates this culture. This entrepreneurial mindset has its roots in the proud history of the region's growth. Local lore attributes it to Stanford University, where student entrepreneurs like Hewlett & Packard, the Varian brothers, and Jay Watkins of Watkins & Johnson. They ventured into the valley, starting in garages and building multimillion-dollar business campuses. Palo Alto, the city surrounding Stanford University, is renowned for the famous garages where tech giants like Apple and Google started.  Facebook corporate headquarters is located in neighboring Menlo Park, while  Tesla is across the bay in Fremont, all within the Bay Area and Silicon Valley. Silicon Valley is indeed the global hub of high-tech innovation, and I'm grateful to be a part of it.

About Me

Hi there! I'm a California native who grew up in Silicon Valley. As a Technical Design Specialist with a strong background in R&D, I've been able to help develop innovative solutions to complex design problems. Over the years, I've had much experience in product development, conceptual design, vendor fabrication, and manufacturing, and I have achieved great success in these areas.

With my technical skills and experience, I can rapidly comprehend any engineering design scenario. My innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities provide added value, and I am at ease throughout the entire spectrum of the R&D process. I possess expertise ranging from conceptual brainstorming to product release and manufacturing processes, catering to market and customer needs.

Throughout my career, I have gained diverse experience across various company disciplines. For instance , I worked as a design drafter in the semiconductor industry, contributing to different phases of capital equipment design. I have had extensive exposure from robotics during the front-end phases and test equipment to final production chip design at the end phase. I have also designed medical body scanners, non-evasive laser surgery systems and devices, and biotech equipment for pharmaceutical production. My expertise extends to satellite systems communications for homeland security, counter-measure systems for military defense, and space flight equipment used on space shuttle missions at NASA AMES Research Center’s life sciences department. I specialize in overall systems design, reverse engineering, NPI new product integration, manufacturing, and sustaining engineering. Additionally, I have explored Civil Engineering infrastructures, mechanical HVAC and P&IDs, and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams. Working in Silicon Valley exposes you to different technologies, and I have gradually evolved with new scientific discoveries and technology. In the tech industry, a tech worker’s knowledge and experience is the most valuable asset to a company.

Skills

I am incredibly thankful for the chance to acquire and develop numerous advanced skills over more than three decades. As technology advances, my computer competency expertise has continuously evolved and improved. My proficiency has reached a professional level, and I have gained the confidence to utilize my skills effectively.

Thanks to my computer skills, I've had the opportunity to work in a variety of industries. My experience includes working in military defense, semiconductor fabrication and equipment, medical devices and capital equipment, civil engineering, solar thermal, and high-end home renovations. In every work setting, my proficiency in computer skills proved to be advantageous in adjusting to my duties and meeting the demands and standards of the company.

Despite encountering stress, anxiety, depression, and humility, I consider myself fortunate for the opportunity to acquire new skills, knowledge, and valuable experience. True wealth lies in the knowledge gained, as it is an asset that cannot be taken away from you.

UX Design & Research:

Technical Publications:

CAD-Engineering:

CAD-Architectural:

Employment History

As I look back on my past as a contractor, it's hard to ignore the stress, politics, and discrimination that came with the job. However, it wasn't all negative - I also had some great experiences, made lasting friendships, and gained knowledge that has stayed with me throughout my career. Knowledge is invaluable and can never be taken away, much like a good education.

In the early stages of my career, layoffs were a source of dread. However, as I gained more knowledge and experience, I became more confident in my skills and training, and the fear of being let go dissipated. I began to view layoffs as an opportunity to take a break or even enjoy a vacation and relaxation. Of course, I knew I would need to find another job eventually, but I only worried about it once I needed the income.

As I entered my senior year, I faced some challenges due to age discrimination. Seeing companies favor young, entry-level candidates who were paid less than someone like me with years of experience was disheartening.

Despite the perception in Silicon Valley that individuals over 40 need to be updated, I approached each completed contract assignment as a chance to grow and gain experience. Each project was a stepping stone toward the next exciting working opportunity, which I eagerly anticipated.

SUMMARY OF EXPERIENCE:

July 2019 to present Honolulu Bohemian
Moved to the Honolulu Arts District - Chinatown, to pursue my passion for the digital arts as an artist-designer, and continue my research in behavioral graphics communications. Was approved by the Hawaiian Arts & Performing Arts committee for an art studio lease at the Chinatown Artists lofts and granted by the Board of Directors Kim Taylor Reese for participation in the Mark's Garage art exhibitions and the First Friday Events on Hotel Street. Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, productivity was hindered with economic set backs, and is just now starting to come back., summer 2021.



Freelance Digital Designer
APR 2018 - July 2019
Vallejo California
Every now and then, companies that I have worked for would call me for work on small jobs,
including Medical Artwork, Animated Gifs, Event Flyers, Logos, Clip Art, and Home renovations. Lately I have not been called for work since January of 2020 and I can only presume it's because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

As a designer at biotech pharmaceutical companies it was my responsibility to create product handling labels to meet industry regulations conforming to FDA and GMPs requirements. I also produced packing and shipping labels to meet international standards of foreign countries.

At manufacturing companies my responsibilities have included creating artwork for product serial number name plates, safety handling, and hazardous materials, to name a few, and product labels that direct proper operational application.


DRB Homes
Dec 2017 - APR 2018
CAD Artist, architectural-residential designer
Location: Alamo California
Assisted team with residential designs, renderings, and floor plans for high end residential renovations.
Drawings were created with CAD program Chief Architect.


Heliodyne Inc. (Solidworks, Autocad, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver)
Mar 2016 – Oct 2017
Engineering Design & Documentation Specialist
Location: Richmond California
Oversee and organize subsystem level activities.
Develop and design precision system weldment frames, sheet metal panels and brackets, and electronic control system assemblies.
Design and develop plumbing and piping diagrams and assemblies.
Work with Solidworks CAD in the design of assemblies.
Prepare design documentation including drawings, models, specifications and production release documents.
Create, approve, revise and maintain design documentation.
Develop and recommend alternative design approaches.
Identify product development innovations and develop, quote, and implement solutions to meet technical requirements and requests.
Assist in the vendor selection / evaluation process.
Assist sales department with technical publications and data specification information.
Maintained installation and service manuals.
Work with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign in the design of wiring diagrams, labels, spec sheets and manuals. Create, Update,and maintain BOMs, new parts, assemblies and sub-assemblies using the FishBowl database program.


CAD Contractor: 2011 to 2012
RF BIOCIDICS, Vacaville CA (Autodesk Inventor Professional 2012 & Autocad 2012)
Senior Designer, Played a major role of a dynamic design team in the development of RF and Microwave systems designed for disinfections (pasteurization) and disinfestation of food products. 2008 to 2009
APPLIED MATERIALS, Fairfield, CA (Solidworks 2008 & Autocad 2008)
Contract Mechanical Cad Designer
Developer of large-scale industrial glass-coating equipment. Supported core business by collaborating with colleagues in design of capital equipment. Created conceptual layouts from engineering design reviews. Facilitated engineering changes and upgrades to existing systems by providing design drafting expertise. 2006 to 2008
ACCURAY INCORPORATED, Sunnyvale, CA (Solidworks 2008 & Autocad)
Mechanical CAD Designer ECO Processor
Manufacturer of ground-breaking radio surgery medical technologies. Contributed to ongoing refinement of company’s robotic radio surgery product by writing and incorporating engineering change orders (ECOs) for new product integration of precision patient-positioning system. Created assembly and fabrication drawings for next system upgrade improvements.

2003 to 2006
Took the time off to spend quality time with my mother who was diagnosed with cancer.


2001 to 2003
GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS, San Francisco, CA (CoCreate Solid Designer, Solidworks)
Mechanical CAD Designer
Leading developer of full body scanners, x-ray imaging, medical diagnostic, and biopharmaceutical technologies. (Now GE Healthcare).Transformed engineering design reviews into conceptual layouts. Provided drafting support for engineering changes and upgrades to existing systems.

1998 to 2001
GENUS TECHNOLOGIES, Sunnyvale, CA (Pro-Engineer 2000i)
Mechanical CAD Designer
Developer of Chemical Vapor Deposition and Atomic Layer Deposition Systems for the Semiconductor industry .Supported core business by collaborating with colleagues in the design of CVD and ALD capital equipment. Created conceptual layouts from engineering design reviews. Facilitated engineering changes and upgrades to existing systems by providing design drafting expertise. 1992 to 1998
SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGIES, Sunnyvale, CA (Pro-Engineer 2000i & Autocad)
Designer/Drafter – Technical Specialist
Developer of Integrated Diagnostic and Tester Systems for the Semiconductor industry.
Provided drafting and design support for new product development of integrated diagnostic systems using e-beam technology. 1991 to 1992
LORAL FAIRCHILD, Milpitas, CA (Autocad)
Contractor - Designer/Drafter
Design support for the product development of infrared camera surveillance systems for commercial and military defense use. 1989 to 1991
LOCKHEED LIFE SCIENCES @ NASA Ames Res Ctr, Moffet Field CA (Autocad)
Contractor - Designer/Drafter
Provided drafting and design support for experimental space flight project equipment. 1988 to 1989
WATKINS JOHNSON & VARIAN, Palo Alto, CA (Autocad & Manual drawing)
Contractor - Designer/Drafter
Joint Military Defense project between Watkins Johnson and Varian. Provided drafting and design support for Satellite Communications systems. 1982 to 1988
Teledyne CME, San Jose, CA (Autocad & Manual drawing by hand)
Drafter
Military Defense project, provided drafting and design support for Airborne and Ship launched countermeasure equipment.

1981 to 1982
Naval Air Rework Facility (NARF), Naval Air Station Alameda, CA
Aircraft Power plant Mechanic
Depot level, full aircraft engine breakdowns and rebuilds for the US Navy. The day after my honorable discharge from the Navy I was hired as a temp worker for the civil service. I only worked for one year and did not pursue permanent employment. I didn't want to be a grease monkey.
Academics

Although I like to joke about spending 30 years in junior college, the truth is that I am still eager to learn. Even after leaving the US Navy, I continued taking classes and searching for courses online. I worked full-time during the day, so I could only attend evening classes, which is where my self-deprecating joke stems from. Nowadays, I spend a lot of time online, and I make sure to take advantage of every opportunity to learn. Whether it involves improving my computer skills or reading informative articles and watching educational videos, I embrace each day as a chance to grow my knowledge.

Learning something new every day is more beneficial than just reading a book. It helps keep your brain active, prevents dementia, and can keep you feeling youthful. While it may not be as easy to keep your body young, I am determined to continue learning until the end of my days. I may not be a genius like Einstein, but I am satisfied with the knowledge and abilities I have acquired over time, which sets me apart from most people.

My aspiration is to motivate individuals to always pursue knowledge and never cease learning.


EDUCATION:

2023
University of Hawai'i Manoa OLLI, Osher Liifelong Learning Institute,
Book writiing, Short Story writiing, ,Llfe writing classes

2022
Diamond Head Theatre, Honolullu HI. acting classes

2021
edX classes online. HTML5 and UX Design courses on line.
Online courses offered are from well know universities across the nation and abroad.

2013
UC Berkeley extension San Francisco California - 2013
Post Baccalaureate Programs in pursuit of UX-UI design

2009-2010
LearniT Computer Traning Center & SFSU downtown off campus center, 2009 – 2010

1997-98 / 2005-07
University of San Francisco USF
2130 Fulton St, San Francisco, CA
Bachelor of Science, Organizational Behavior from the College of Professional Studies, received undergraduate degree in 2007.

1991-92, 94-96
Mission Community College Santa Clara California part-time
General Education

1983-84
DeAnza College Cupertino California part-time
General Education

1982
Masters Institute Santa Clara California, Printed Circuit Board, PCB, design training

1981
Bay Valley Technical Institute Santa Clara California, Vocational Associate Certificate in electro-mechanical drafting.
U.S. Navy Military Service

In my turbulent teenage days, I got into a lot of trouble. I was constantly drinking or getting high on marijuana. I was going nowhere fast, so I had to change and escape this losing lifestyle. After being stuck with dishwasher and warehouse jobs due to lacking skills, I found my way out through military service.

Initially, my main objective wasn't patriotism. I aimed to acquire a skill that would enable me to secure a decent job. Fortunately, I was assigned to the Naval Air Station Alameda, AIMD (Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Division), which was so close to my home, just by requesting it. I enlisted in the Navy as an Aviation Machinist Mate (Jet Engine Mechanic) to learn a skill. I put in a lot of effort and dedication, and it paid off as I rose to the E5-2nd Class Petty Officer rank in just three years. Despite excelling in my exams and studies, I struggled as a mechanic.

Through my military experience, I learned the importance of teamwork. All of us needed to collaborate to succeed. Being in that environment, I gained a sense of gratitude, trust in my fellow sailors, and a strong sense of pride in being a part of a team and the American military. The military served as a second father figure and helped set me on the right path. If given the opportunity, I would embark on a military career and go to sea once again. Although I have considered returning, I am humbled and honored to have served and proud to be a veteran.


MILITARY SERVICE:

1977 - 1981 Active Service / 82-83 Reserves

U.S.Navy Veteran - Honorable Discharge Aviation Machinist Mate, PO2-ADJ (E5) Petty Officer 2nd Class (E5) Aviation Machinist Mate specializing in intermediate maintenance of jet aircraft engines and helicopter power plants. Last attached to AIMD and the HS-85 Antisubmarine Warfare Reconnaissance Squadron.