Matthew Howell
Decatur
Summary
Dedicated Fabrication Specialist with over 7 years of experience in Large Wheel Loader fabrication, demonstrating exceptional skills in NEEF and EEF Tack/Prep, Finish, and Checkout processes. A strong track record in quality control includes the prevention of over 100 AQEs and the successful execution of more than 50 rework projects, reflecting meticulous attention to detail. Expertise in product ordering, scheduling, and inventory management was further developed in a leadership role within the Dairy Department at Kroger, highlighting a commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and driving process improvements. Proven ability to deliver high-quality results in fast-paced environments while maintaining a focus on safety and compliance.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Fabrication Specialist
Caterpillar
08.2018 - Current
- Successfully led asset management operations totaling $60 million for the first quarter of 2025. With continued strategic planning and execution, the division is on track to surpass $240 million in total assets by year-end, highlighting strong fiscal leadership and sustainable operational growth
- Demonstrated expertise in LWL Neef and EEF Tack/Prep, Finish, and Checkout over 6 years.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to refine designs and improve production processes.
- Utilized a bearing press for day to day operations.
- CPR Certified
- Contributed to quality control by preventing 100+ AQEs and executing 50+ rework projects.
- Displayed eagerness for continuous learning and improvement in the AQE process.
- Worked Wheel Tractor Scraper Fabrication Dec 2019 to Jan 2020
- Compactor Fabrication July 2020 to Oct 2020
- Led the training of 10+ new welders by teaching the checkout process, and fostering a culture of quality workmanship
Paint Line
Caterpillar
02.2020 - 07.2020
- Proactively identified and corrected defects from other production lines to ensure high quality output
- Demonstrated proficiency in every stage of the paint line process, from load end to end of line, and consistently delivered high-quality output
- TPA
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
Junior League Coordinator
Central Illinois American Poolplayers Association (APA)
08.2019 - 01.2025
- Eager to leverage analytical skills to drive project success and exceed targets.
- Regularly engage in public speaking to inform 50+ parents and players about rules and updates in the pool community.
- Facilitate skill development in junior pool players, focusing on fundamentals and strategic play.
- Successfully foster potential realization and goal attainment in young athletes.
- Implement effective score tracking systems for league matches, ensuring accuracy and fairness.
- Positively impact the pool community by nurturing young talent and promoting sportsmanship.
Grocery Clerk, Dairy
Kroger
01.2016 - 08.2018
- Kroger Decatur, IL — Grocery Clerk, Dairy
- Promoted to the Assistant Department Lead in the Dairy department in April, 2017.
- Managed inventory and placed product orders.
- Created schedules using Microsoft Excel.
- Displayed great customer service as Utility Clerk (bagger).
Education
High School Diploma -
MacArthur High School
Decatur, IL05.2018
Skills
- Microsoft Word (Skillful)
- Microsoft PowerPoint (Skillful)
- Product Ordering (Experienced)
- Paint Line (Experienced)
- Tack/Prep (Experienced)
- Checkout (Expert)
- CPR Certification (Skillful)
- Rework Projects (Experienced)
- High School Diploma
- Precision (Experienced)
- Quality Control (Experienced)
- Safety Procedures (Experienced)
- Microsoft Excel (Experienced)
- Customer Service (Experienced)
- Fabrication Specialist (Experienced)
- Large Wheel Loader Fabrication (Experienced)
- Finish (Experienced)
- Trailer Backing (Experienced)
- AQE Prevention (Experienced)
- AQE Process (Beginner)
- Perfect Attendance
- Efficiency (Experienced)
- Continuous Improvement (Experienced)
Timeline
Paint Line
Caterpillar
02.2020 - 07.2020
Junior League Coordinator
Central Illinois American Poolplayers Association (APA)
08.2019 - 01.2025
Fabrication Specialist
Caterpillar
08.2018 - Current
Grocery Clerk, Dairy
Kroger
01.2016 - 08.2018
High School Diploma -
MacArthur High School