Brent Laughlin

Manufacturing Operations, Maintenance, and Automation Leader with experience in plant operations, maintenance management, automation engineering, and continuous improvement within high-volume manufacturing environments. Skilled in PLC troubleshooting, robotics, CNC systems, injection molding systems, injection molding automation, hydraulics, pneumatics, and preventive maintenance. Proven track record improving uptime, equipment reliability, workflow efficiency, and production performance through hands-on technical leadership and process improvement.

Automation Engineer - Rosti - Cary, NC

(2026-03)

• Designed EOAT tooling and automation solutions for injection molding and secondary manufacturing operations.
• Programmed and optimized Wittmann 3-axis robots to improve production efficiency and process reliability.
• Collaborated with quality, tooling, and production teams to develop fixtures and manufacturing process improvements.
• Supported international manufacturing transfer projects with engineering teams in Sweden involving equipment integration and production readiness.
• Utilized SolidWorks to support mold modifications, tooling improvements, automation projects, and laser etching processes.

Maintenance Manager - Rosti - Cary, NC

(2025-05 - 2026-03)

• Improved maintenance response efficiency by implementing plant-wide paging and communication systems across multiple departments.
• Coordinated maintenance, equipment improvement, and automation initiatives across production, tooling, engineering, and operations teams.
• Supported installation and integration of injection molding machines, robotic systems, and automation equipment.
• Served as technical lead for a multimillion-dollar international manufacturing transfer project involving contractors, vendors, and production readiness activities.
• Improved preventive maintenance effectiveness and downtime tracking through IQMS optimization and standardized tooling initiatives.

Plant Manager/General Manager - American Tool and Mold - Clearwater, FL

(2024-09 - 2025-03)

• Directed 24/7 operations across three shifts, aligning production, staffing, maintenance, and customer priorities to support on-time delivery.
• Improved machine utilization and workflow by optimizing production schedules around capacity, lead times, and order priorities.
• Led supervisors, operators, and support staff to improve accountability, execution, and overall workforce performance.
• Implemented preventive maintenance programs for injection molding equipment to reduce downtime and improve equipment reliability.
• Applied Lean manufacturing principles to improve workflow efficiency and reduce operational waste.

Electronics Technician/CNC Maintenance Manager - American Tool and Mold - Clearwater, FL

(2020-11 - 2023-07)

• Managed maintenance and technical support for $10M+ in CNC and injection molding equipment, improving reliability and troubleshooting response.
• Developed preventive maintenance systems that reduced unexpected failures and improved production continuity.
• Led equipment installations, startups, and system integration efforts to support efficient production ramp-up.
• Diagnosed and repaired hydraulic, electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical systems using schematics and PLC troubleshooting.
• Supported ISO 9000 compliance, supplier coordination, and customer technical support activities.

Field Service Representative - Steris Corp. - Tampa, FL

(2019-09 - 2020-11)

• Maintained, installed, and troubleshot 50+ medical sterilization systems across multiple customer facilities.
• Performed decontamination procedures and ensured compliance with sterilization, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Provided on-site and remote technical support, reducing downtime and improving equipment reliability.
• Coordinated with customers and facility personnel to support equipment performance and service operations.

Department Manager - Florida Custom Mold - Odessa, FL

(2018-05 - 2019-08)

• Led a team of 15 employees across secondary manufacturing operations including pad printing, silk screening, assembly, trimming, and CNC machining.
• Increased department productivity by 20% through workflow improvements, bottleneck reduction, and team coordination.
• Managed monthly production output exceeding $25K while maintaining quality and production standards.
• Utilized manufacturing software to track production status, workflow, and operational performance.

Maintenance Technician - Florida Custom Mold - Odessa, FL

(2015-08 - 2018-05)

• Performed preventive and reactive maintenance on $8M+ in injection molding and auxiliary equipment to minimize downtime and improve reliability.
• Troubleshot PLC-controlled systems, robotics, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems including 480V, 240V, and low-voltage equipment.
• Installed, repaired, and programmed robotic and production equipment to support manufacturing operations.
• Supported OSHA and workplace safety initiatives through safety committee participation and compliance activities.

Aircraft Rescue Firefighter - United States Marine Corps - Various Locations

(2011-08 - 2015-08)

• Responded to aircraft emergencies, fuel spills, fires, and rescue operations in high-pressure environments.
• Conducted fire safety inspections and maintained emergency response equipment and operational readiness.
• Trained personnel in emergency response procedures, safety protocols, and firefighting operations.
• Provided leadership and coordinated emergency response activities during critical incidents.
• Developed and delivered technical classroom and hands-on training on aircraft rescue procedures, emergency response, and aircraft familiarization for Marines; mentored junior instructors and coordinated recurring training to maintain operational readiness.

Bachelor of Science - Engineering Technology - Daytona State College

Certification - Welding Technology - Pasco Hernando State College