Tho Bui

Experienced in aerospace, materials, and process engineering with a strong business mindset. Skilled in effective communication and teamwork. Proven ability to lead, train, and document technical operations.

Industrial Water Process Engineer - Empirical Foods - South Sioux City, IA

(2023-09)

• Documented disinfectant and wastewater treatment processes.
• Interpreted P&ID diagrams to assess system layout and functionality; identified and optimized key performance indicators (KPIs) to enhance process efficiency.
• Created pump system curves; contributed to system design.
• Utilized GE iFIX SCADA software to monitor and interpret real-time data from process systems; supported troubleshooting and system optimization.
• Developed standard operating procedures (SOPs) and trained staff on coagulation methods, testing equipment use, and Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) operations.
• Optimized grease tank operations to enhance separation efficiency and increase fat and oil recovery.
• Transitioned wastewater treatment to batch mode for higher efficiency.
• Developed acid dosing algorithm for more efficient pH control.
• Supervised water treatment operators, ensured 24/7 shift coverage, and tracked PM tasks.
• Led multiple pilot studies on Copper-Silver Ionization, glycol recovery and reuse, and chemical optimization in water treatment processes.
• Managed copper-silver ionization system to ensure microbial control in air scrubber.
• Developed documentation for microbial monitoring and corrective action plans.
• Led glycol reuse initiatives, resulting in improved resource efficiency and cost savings.
• Supported drafting of P&ID diagrams for glycol chiller systems, CSI/UV integration for air scrubbers, and water system commissioning for the Garden City New Plant.
• Monitored and completed billing documentation for facility water discharge to ensure compliance with city and state environmental permits in Nebraska.

Material Science Engineer - Footprint - Gilbert, AZ

(2023-06 - 2023-08)

• Conducted viscosity testing for various organic coatings used on products.
• Performed spray trials to optimize coating coverage across all surfaces of the product.
• Collaborated with development team to evaluate coating performance.

Materials and Process Engineer - Paragon Space Development Corporation - Tucson, AZ

(2020-09 - 2023-01)

• Supported NASA projects with documentation, testing, and materials analysis.
• Led R&D on CO2 scrubbers, water, and urine processors.
• Built test rigs, improved process safety, and created materials databases.
• Received Rocket Award for outstanding contributions.

Tennis Head Coach - St. Augustine Catholic High School

(2023)

Chem Team Lead - NASA/Collins Aerospace Space Habitat Research - Ames, IA

(2018-01 - 2019-12)

• Led CO2 scrubber development using MOFs; presented to NASA leadership.

Bachelor's Degree - Chemistry - Iowa State University (2020-05)