Open to opportunities

Matt Gardner

@mattgardner1

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I design naval vessel systems and lead shipcheck coordination using 2D and 3D CAD.

Thailand

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What I'm looking for

Mechanical & Marine Designer with 15 years at Newport News Shipbuilding, advancing from waterfront sheet metal worker to HVAC and piping systems designer. Armed with an A.S. in Mechanical Engineering, I deliver 2D/3D CAD models and production drawings. Seeking remote roles where the employer provides CAD software licenses/access (AutoCAD, Inventor, SolidWorks) to execute designs.

Over a 15-year career at Newport News Shipbuilding, I progressed from hands-on sheet metal worker to Marine Designer specializing in HVAC and piping systems. My background uniquely bridges waterfront production with high-precision digital design. After completing a rigorous sheet metal apprenticeship, I earned an Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering while completing a specialized design apprenticeship. From 2022 to 2026, I developed 2D/3D CAD models, blueprint drawings, and system layouts for complex naval overhauls, nuclear applications, and new construction. I bring deep technical accuracy, trade experience, and cross-functional design expertise to remote mechanical design and engineering teams.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Marine Designer

Newport News Shipbuilding

Apr 2022 - Jun 2026 (4 years 2 months)

Designed complex 2D/3D CAD models, system layouts, and production drawings for HVAC and piping systems on naval vessels and nuclear applications.

Excel Microsoft Office CAD CAD Design CAD Software Design Design Reviews Design Systems Design Tools Word

Design Apprentice

Newport News Shipbuilding

Aug 2018 - Apr 2022 (3 years 8 months)

Developed 2D/3D CAD drafting fundamentals while earning an Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Assisted senior designers with system layouts and engineering calculations.

Excel Microsoft Office CAD CAD Design CAD Software Design Design Reviews Design Systems Design Tools Word

Sheet Metal Apprentice

Newport News Shipbuilding

Apr 2016 - Aug 2018 (2 years 4 months)

Completed rigorous hands-on apprenticeship training in metal fabrication, blueprint reading, layout, and waterfront installation standards.

Sheet Metal Sheet Metal Fabrication HVAC Systems HVAC

Sheet Metal Worker

Newport News Shipbuilding

Aug 2011 - Aug 2018 (7 years)

Executed precision sheet metal fabrication, assembly, and waterfront installation for naval ship construction and overhaul projects.

Sheet Metal Sheet Metal Fabrication Drilling Welding Sketch

Cashier

Dollar Tree

Jan 2007 - Dec 2011 (4 years 11 months)

Provided customer satisfaction through promotions of core company values, processed sales and exchanges, and maintained store cleanliness.

Customer Service Sales Cash Handling Store Operations

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Tidewater Community College

Associate of Science, Mechanical Engineering

Grade: 3.7 GPA, Magna Cum Laude

Earned an Associate of Science in Engineering with a 3.7 GPA and graduated Magna Cum Laude.

The Apprentice School

Apprentice School Certification, Shipbuilding and Design

Grade: 3.8 GPA, High Honors

Completed the Apprentice School program with High Honors and a 3.8 GPA.

Warwick High School

High School Diploma, General Studies

Grade: 3.5 GPA, Advanced Studies

Activities and societies: Marching band, concert band, drum line; most outstanding percussionist

Graduated with Advanced Studies and a 3.5 GPA. Participated in marching band, concert band, and drum line, earning recognition as most outstanding percussionist.