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.

Derek R. Sammons

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.

Available to hire

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.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Senior CAD Engineer/Manufacturing Facilities Designer at Terran Orbital
August 1, 2021 - Present
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 at Paccar Engine Company
February 1, 2015 - March 1, 2020
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 at Allied Stainless
January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2014
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.
Architectural Assistant/Draftsman at Donovan Smith, Architect
January 1, 1995 - January 1, 2015
Generated construction documents by hand drafting (1995–2000) and then with AutoCAD releases up to 2013. Prepared 3D models and virtual renderings; conducted code research and construction site inspections for proper implementation of designs in structural supports, mechanical details, electrical layouts, and architectural finishes. Guided contractors through problem resolution and created internal structural framing for warehouse conversions to condos and custom homes with elevators, spiral stairwells, and high-end stone finishes; studied BIM developments with Revit and Tekla; created custom 3D models of beach-front homes, condos, apartments, and estate layouts.
Freelance Production Designer at John Turner Wood Works
January 1, 2003 - January 1, 2011
Assisted with surveying existing and new structures, creating existing floor plans, verifying interior elevations, and verifying foundations and MEP elements. Used AutoCAD 2003–2013 to provide design drawings and production documents. Constructed and installed custom cabinetry; assessed materials, maintained supplies, and delivered products.

Education

Architectural, Civil, and Mechanical Technologies at Southwest Community College
January 1, 1995 - January 1, 2013
Interior Design & Architectural Engineering at University of Memphis
January 1, 2004 - January 1, 2005
Interior Design & Architectural Engineering at University of Central Arkansas
January 1, 1991 - January 1, 1994

Qualifications

Mechanical Engineering Certification
January 1, 2020 - May 12, 2026
Architectural Engineering Certification
January 1, 2015 - May 12, 2026

Industry Experience

Manufacturing, Real Estate & Construction, Professional Services