Mark Traxler

Experience

• 

  Saturn

  Jan 1994 - Jan 2006

  Led the Voice of the Customer (VOC) team for exterior systems issues on six vehicle models. Compiled and analyzed JD Power and warranty data, defined issues, performed root cause analysis, and led team of design and quality engineers to create solutions.Played key role in production launch of 10 major vehicles across multiple architectures launches at five GM manufacturing facilities. • Led multidisciplinary teams to resolve complex, critical issues with sheet metal, mechanisms/hardware, interior trim, weather-strips and HVAC. See full description at www.marktraxler.com/manuf-quality-materials.• Door system high-risk issue champion for major vehicle program.• Appointed lead engineer for vehicle exterior systems team that significantly reduced warranty, part cost, ergonomic issues, and improved plant throughput using continuous design improvements.• Lead engineer for transition from Saturn engineering systems to GM engineering systems. Show less

  • Vehicle Project Engineer

    Jan 1998 - Jan 2006

  • Sr. Project Release Engineer

    Jan 1994 - Jan 1998
• 

  General Motors

  Jan 2006 - Jan 2017

  Led the mechanical product design of door sub-systems and components. Performed 3D modeling using NX-9 CAD.• Innovated a Thatham cover that saved assembly time by an estimated 1,333 labor hours annually.• Integrated lock, latch and release systems into the door for a new vehicle – enabling use of carryover cables and avoiding $50K in new tooling expense.• Designed a latch actuation rod with fewer offsets, saving an estimated $8K annually. Managed all 18 elements of PPAP during APQP phase for machining engine blocks, heads, and cranks. Coordinated root cause, interim corrective actions and closure for quality complaints from internal GM assembly plants and external Tier 1 customers. • CHALLENGE: There were no quality systems in place and no way to measure quality. ACTION: Established new, sustainable quality systems using QS9000 and APQP principles. RESULT: Metrics to track, measure, and improve quality. Managed suppliers and part quality using GM Corporate processes and tools, such as PRRs, Master Dot reviews and the APQP process.

  • Senior Designer – GM Technical Center

    Jan 2014 - Jan 2017

  • PPAP Quality Engineer

    Jan 2012 - Jan 2014

  • Customer Interface Quality Engineer

    Jan 2009 - Jan 2012

  • Supplier Quality Engineer

    Jan 2006 - Jan 2009
• 

  General Motors

  Apr 2017 - now

  Senior Design Release Engineer

  Lead mechanical systems design, ADVP&R planning, and project management for pickup bed cover systems – a program with a high contribution margin. Accountable for all stages and aspects of the product development lifecycle – including conception, cost, aesthetics, design, timing, validation, tooling, full production, marketing, and continuous improvement. Team leader for cross-functional, matrixed teams. Manage design and tooling budget.• Led the PPAP, release, and launch of three pickup bed cover systems.• Conceptualized and developed an innovative cargo caddy system using a simplified design to minimize material costs (U.S. patent pending). Show less