Michael O'Brien

Own System Safety work products for the New Glenn GS2 program, including FHA, FTA, FMECA, and Critical Item List. Lead and process-owner for FMECA & Critical Item processes across New Glenn; developed a tool to streamline Critical Item List management.

Led Systems & Safety Engineering strategy across 3 vehicle programs, managing a ~$10MM annual budget and reducing expense 30% through internal synergies. Built Canoo's Functional Safety capabilities from the ground up and championed an MBSE-based digital transformation that improved efficiency 20%.

Spearheaded the development of a comprehensive safety culture for the emerging automated driving industry. Led transformation of the Engineering Team QMS to align with customer & industry specifications. Co-authored the "Safety First for Automated Driving" (SaFAD) industry white paper.

Designed and managed the Process Improvement team, driving continuous improvement efforts through data analysis and identifying opportunities. Communicated with senior management to gain buy-in for improvement projects and pilots, leading to successful roll-outs. Additionally, championed the design and implementation of a new enterprise system to support centralized procurement processes, establishing performance tracking for Vendor Collaboration projects.

Spearheaded the development and implementation of a ‘Zero Defects’ Quality Management Tool to enhance operational effectiveness. Managed and maintained the RedPrairie WFM for warehouse operations, while establishing a Lean Six Sigma culture to improve operations & identify project initiatives.

FIRST Technical Advisor (FTA) since 2012 Season. Responsible for keeping the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) field and event running smoothly and work in collaboration with FIRST staff, event staff, the FIRST Technical Advisor Assistant (FTAA) and other key volunteers at the event.

Industrial Engineer tasked with the responsibilites of being the value stream owner of the DLx Labor System and Warehouse Receiving. Work on indentifying opportunites within the business and daily operations/processes for improvement and cost savings. Provide support for and serve as a key owner for the Labor Productivity System within the warehouse.