1. Richard Van Gilder
1419 Harvard Rd. Berkley, MI 48072 (947)517-4333 ricky.vangilder@gmail.com
Summary of Qualifications
 Problem solving and analysis, careful and systematic evaluation of information,
possible alternatives and consequences.
 Proficient in the use of practice of precision measuring tools and instruments.
 Makes sound decisions in a timely and confident manner.
 Operate test equipment in a safe manner.
 Current employee with knowledge of Gabriel products and Internal Procedures
 Good customer service skills as showcased during time on Answerman Line
 Knowledge of/and hands-on use of measurement tools and gages
 Ability to tear-down components using multiple methods
 Experience comparing parts to prints and determining issues based on analysis
 Willingness to work off-hours when needed to meet timing
 Ability to communicate effectively
 Strong commitment to providing world-class service, anticipating customer needs
and designing, promoting or supporting the delivery of products and services that
exceed their expectations.
 A demonstrated ability to work well in a team environment, to take initiative, to
work independently of minimal day-to-day supervision, and to communicate
effectively at all levels of the organization.
 Ability to influence and shape the decisions of others and to work through issues or
conflicts.
 Continuous improvement driven with a willingness to adopt new ideas/skills.
 Performance attributes as a self starter, positive attitude, willingness to ask
questions and ability to brainstorm and collaboratively solve discrete problems with
peers.
Experience
Gabriel Ride Control, Farmington Hills, MI
Engineering Technician / Testing / Prototype Lab 2014 - Present
 Scheduled work and provided problem solving support
 Reviewed drawings for accuracy before release for prototyping, mass production and
customer approval.
 Assembled, disassembled, and tested prototype hydraulic shock absorber units.
 Developed test plans, specifications, procedures and project timing.
 Coordinated and performed tests, documented results with engineering reports.
 Captured statistical data to analyze, review and use for recommended improvement
updates.
 Vehicle ride tuning.
 Assembled and disassembled, tested, and tuned prototype units.
 Valve tuning for ride and handling characteristics.
 Understanding of standard product design and relationship to manufacturing and
processes.
 Participated and worked with customers directly to achieve future business goals.

2.  Participated in multiple “offsite”, out of state tuning events on customer properties
 Participate in meetings with our customers to discuss goals, and performance updates or
concerns and develop an action plan.
Gabriel Ride Control, Troy, MI
Warranty Technician 2013 - 2014
 Performed tear down analysis on Warranty returns
 Ran various tests, including DF testing, leak testing, peak testing, and fade testing.
 Performed dimensional inspections on both warranty returns and samples from our
manufacturing facilities (quality control)
 Utilized microscope for weld analysis, stress marks, contamination, etc., and took
pictures of findings.
 Maintained results on SharePoint database
 Continually met required timing for measurements and testing results.
Gabriel Ride Control, Troy, MI
Aftermarket Technician / Answerman Phone Line Operator, 9/11 - 2013
 Performed Dimensional Analysis on NPI, Re-Source, and Warranty Components
o Created and maintained bubble drawings and data-sheets to document
measurement locations and results
o Performed dimensional analysis on shocks, struts, upper mounts, etc..
o Maintained results on SharePoint database
o Continually met required timing for measurements
 Performed Material Hardness Analysis
o Cut sections of various components using various tools
o Ran Hardness analysis using Rockwell Testing equipment
o Recorded and Maintained results in SharePoint database
 Performed Fit and Ride Evaluations
o Measured and recorded various benchmark data using shop tools and
measurement equipment
o Removed OE equipment and replaced with current or future Gabriel products
o Performed comparison between OE and current/future Gabriel products to
determine if parts accurately fit vehicle and whether ride is acceptable
 Answered Answerman Phone Line
o Handled approximately 50-80 phone calls per day
o Provided Gabriel coverage information to customers
o Provided technical support related to all LVA applications, or transferred
calls to appropriate department if required.
Continental Automotive, Auburn Hills, MI
Shipping and Receiving, 05/11-08/11
 Responsible for all incoming and outgoing packages
o Received incoming packages and checked into inventory
o Personally delivered items of high importance to necessary employees
o Prepared parts and packages for outgoing shipments using multiple carriers

3. TruGreen, Waterford, MI
Route Manager, 06/10-04/11
 Provide personalized lawn service based on customer needs
o Analyzed each customers current lawn status to develop service and
maintenance plan
o Carry-out service and maintenance plan in a timely manner while surpassing
quality expectations
o Continuously exceeded customer needs and expectations
o Increased sales using interpersonal and customer service skills
Inalfa RoofSystems, Auburn Hills, MI
Assistant Line Leader/Glass Roller/Assembler, 11/99-08/09
 Lead assembly line team
o Responsible to ensure team met part quantity daily goals
o Responsible for overall quality and safety on the line
o Filled in for other Line Leaders when necessary in order to maintain overall
company goals
 Performed Glass Rolling and Assembly Duties
o Applied rubber seal to edge of glass
o Responsible to maintain quality and quantity goals set by company
Education: Lake Orion High School, Lake Orion, MI
 Graduated: 1999
 Degree: High School Diploma
US Truck Driving School, Sterling Heights, MI
 Graduated: 2015
 CDL-A License
Licenses
 Michigan Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Applicator
 CDL Class A
 Forklift Operator DOT Vehicle Driving Experience
 Chauffeur License
 First Responder Since 2013- Present
Skills Car Hoists, Alignment Machine, Wheel Balancer, Spring Compressor, MTS Machine,
Roehrig, Lathe, Drop Gages, Angle Gages, Microscope, Calipers, Height Gage, Ultrasonic Thickness
Gage, Rockwell Hardness Tester, Multiple Other Measurement Tools and Gages, Grinders, Tube
Cutter, Band Saw, All Shop Hand Tools, Microsoft Office
(References Available Upon Request)