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Derek R. Sammons

Available to hire

I am a CAD Design Engineer with 27+ years of experience leading aerospace facility design, layout optimization, and manufacturing process improvements.

About

I am a CAD Design Engineer with 27+ years of experience leading aerospace facility design, layout optimization, and manufacturing process improvements. I specialize in designing satellite manufacturing facilities, ISO-compliant cleanrooms, and specialized testing chambers (EMI, RF, thermal vacuum, solar array). I excel at aggregating cross-departmental requirements, collaborating with management and engineering teams, researching vendors, and ensuring compliance with aerospace standards.

My strengths include advanced CAD for 3D modeling and layouts, rapid prototyping, and the development of custom production tools and storage systems. I have a track record of improving workflow efficiency, reducing bottlenecks, and delivering scalable facilities and equipment that align with AS9100/FAA and ISO 9001 standards.

  • 30 years' experience
  • Joined May 2026

Languages

  • EnglishFluent

Industry experience

  • Manufacturing
  • Real Estate & Construction
  • Professional Services

Work experience· 5 roles

Senior CAD Engineer/Manufacturing Facilities Designer · Terran OrbitalAug 2021 – Present · 5 yrs 4 mos

Led design and layout of satellite manufacturing facilities, including ISO 8-compliant cleanrooms and specialized testing chambers (EMI, RF, solar array, thermal vacuum), ensuring contamination control and operational efficiency for high-precision aerospace production. Aggregated cross-department engineering requirements (SOW) from multiple teams to develop detailed assembly/test specifications and facility construction documentation. Researched, selected, and implemented engineering solutions for storage, material movement, and assembly processes, optimizing workflow and compliance with aerospace industry standards. Managed data and fabrication of custom production tools/storage systems to enhance assembly line operations, reduce bottlenecks, and support scalable satellite manufacturing. Collaborated with management, engineering firms, and vendors to create commercial documentation and integrate equipment for seamless facility integration. Collaborated with management, engineering fir

Production Designer/3D Modeler · Paccar Engine CompanyFeb 2015 – Mar 2020 · 5 yrs 2 mos

Designed custom production tools, storage systems, and 3D layouts for inventory/conveyor setups based on assembly line SOW requirements, improving parts delivery efficiency and traffic flow. Developed and implemented plant layout changes, including upgraded equipment proposals, prototype 3D printing for machining/conveyors, and process optimizations for high-volume production. Provided design recommendations, secured approvals, and drove manufacturing/layout modifications to enhance productivity and reduce costs in engine assembly environments.

Design Engineer · Allied StainlessJan 2013 – Dec 2014 · 2 yrs

Designed custom stainless-steel products — with budgets ranging from $200K to $5M — for residential, medical, industrial, and commercial clients using Solid Edge. Duties included assessing client needs, preparing design recommendations, presenting designs for approval, developing production drawings and material needs, and supervising fabrication and production processes.

Freelance Production Designer · John Turner Wood WorksJan 2003 – Jan 2011 · 8 yrs 1 mo
Architectural Assistant/Draftsman · Donovan Smith, ArchitectJan 1995 – Jan 2015 · 20 yrs 1 mo

Education

Architectural, Civil, and Mechanical Technologies · Southwest Community College1995 – 2013
Interior Design & Architectural Engineering · University of Memphis2004 – 2005
Interior Design & Architectural Engineering · University of Central Arkansas1991 – 1994

Certifications and awards

Mechanical Engineering Certification2020 – 2026
Architectural Engineering Certification2015 – 2026

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