Ted Visaya's
Career Reflections Journal


I've created a detailed employment biography that covers my work experience and responsibilities from the past 40 years. I’ve been updating it since 1982, which is when I first started writing resumes and realized I enjoyed it. That was really the start of my writing journey. I took English writing classes in college to improve my skills and discovered I truly enjoyed writing. Who would have thought that resumes would help me find my voice on paper?

When I started in tech, I didn’t have to follow the usual job application process. Instead, I got my start by taking temp jobs through staffing agencies, which was pretty common for people like me who didn’t have a degree yet and were taking night classes. I used to joke that temp workers were like freelancers who couldn’t commit, and the recruiters were like employment matchmakers. Even so, I kept hustling, always searching for the next job to stay employed and keep my skills up.

During the early 1980s, After I was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy, I worked for a short time as a jet mechanic in the civil service. Luckily, my brother Pete helped me get an entry-level draftsman job, even though I had no real experience—just a few drafting classes from high school. That job helped me leave the world of mechanics behind and move into a role that better suited me.

As a Cold War veteran, I saw up close how the U.S. standoff with Russia and China influenced everything, from politics to technology. In Silicon Valley, tech companies focused a lot on national defense and homeland security. One of the busiest areas was satellite communications, which grew quickly because of President Ronald Reagan’s Strategic Defense Initiative, also called the “Star Wars” program. The plan was to build a missile defense system using satellites in space to spot and stop nuclear threats. Even though the full system was never built, the program poured billions into research and development, giving big defense contractors like Lockheed and FMC a huge boost. That also kept their support networks, including smaller companies like the ones I worked for, busy with projects. If you had any skills, finding a tech job back then was incredibly easy.

From what I remember, and later found out was true, the Internet actually began as a military project called ARPANET. It was developed in the late 1960s by the U.S. Department of Defense to allow secure communication between missile silos and military bases, even if there was a nuclear attack. By the 1980s and early 1990s, it had grown into a stronger system using TCP/IP protocols, and projects like NSFNET, run by the National Science Foundation, started to expand access beyond the military to universities and research labs.

By about 1991 to 1993, the stage was set for the Internet to become available for commercial use. This marked the start of what we now call the Dot-Com Boom of the mid-to-late 1990s. I used to say it all began with basic inter-office email and dial-up modems connecting home and work, and then it suddenly took off. Platforms like AOL (America Online) and Netscape appeared, offering early ways to communicate and browse the web. After that, major retailers started moving their businesses online, and everything changed almost overnight.

The Cold War officially ended in 1991, just as the Dot-Com era was starting to grow. The Iron Curtain fell, Germany came back together, and the Soviet Union split into independent republics. Many people saw this as a win for Reagan-era defense policy, saying technology had moved ahead of ideology. But with peace came budget cuts. Defense contracts disappeared, companies shrank, and suddenly finding a job wasn’t so easy anymore. The industry became competitive quickly, and staying employed meant you had to adapt fast and often.

PARADIGM SHIFT
Engineering design went through a big change, moving from hand-drawn sketches to computer drawings using CAD (Computer-Aided Design). Autocad became the most popular program. Some experienced designers didn’t want to switch and preferred their old methods, which fits the saying, “You can't teach an old dog new tricks.” They were comfortable with what they knew, but I was happy to use computers in my work.

In the past, the manual approach to drawing creation proved faster than CAD: the learning curve took more time. This led to a divide between seasoned designers and new engineers who believed that CAD would ultimately replace drafters and designers. Some experienced individuals were upset as it posed a threat to their livelihood. As a tech-savvy individual, I didn't mind the discussions but observed and learned from them. It became clear that drafters and designers were the best candidates to create computerized drawings, which proved true.

The beginning of engineering drawings is knowing how to create engineering sketches sufficiently on a computer. Drawing standards are implemented to ensure companies can effectively communicate with the U.S. government and other countries. Machinists and fabricators also have their drawing standards. The ultimate goal is to achieve clear engineering communication so that instructions on drawings and in engineering documentation are easily understood, and everyone is on the same page. You cannot assume others know how to construct something based solely on what's on a drawing. The design drafter should always place themselves in the position of the person fabricating the parts, or the technician troubleshooting the system, or the assembler building the system, and the marketing salesperson explaining the inuendos of the product they're trying to sell.

The design drafter's job is to find the simplest and most effective way to communicate engineering information in drawings and documentation. These are often broken into manageable, step-by-step instructions. Many engineers found this frustrating and preferred to focus on engineering, leaving drawing standards and instructions to the design drafters. As a result, collaboration between engineering and design drafting became crucial for industry success.

Silicon Valley



An ESTABLISHED CULTURE 

With a reputation for hi-tech Silicon Valley continues to amaze the world with creative innovations. It stands out from regions known for steelworkers or auto workers because of its advanced technological ecosystem, which attracts brilliant tech experts from around the globe. Corporations flock here to harness this unique resource. The constant development of new technology in the valley is astounding.

Living in the San Francisco Bay Area, one can sense the dynamic and innovative spirit that defines this culture. This entrepreneurial mindset has roots in the region's history. Local lore credits Stanford University, where student entrepreneurs like Hewlett and Packard, the Varian brothers, and Jay Watkins of Watkins and Johnson.in garages and built multimillion-dollar business campuses. Palo Alto, the city around Stanford, is known for the garages where tech giants like Apple and Google started.  Facebook corporate headquarters is located in neighboring Menlo Park, while  Tesla is across the bay in Fremont, all within the Bay Area and Silicon Valley. Silicon Valley is truly the global hub of high-tech innovation, and I am grateful to be part of it.
About Me

Aloha!

Welcome to my employment and academic journal. I'm a technical design specialist from California. I use my creative and technical skills to solve tough design problems and develop new solutions. I have extensive experience inResearch and Development, especially in product development, conceptual design, vendor fabrication, and manufacturing. I am passionate about my work and always seek new challenges.

With technical skills gained from work experience and education, I quickly understand engineering design situations. I excel at solving problems and finding creative solutions. I can help with any part of the R&D process, from brainstorming ideas to launching and manufacturing products. This allows me to meet the needs of both the market and customers. I have worked in many fields and industries. In the semiconductor industry, I was a design drafter and worked on equipment from robotics to chip design.

I have also helped design medical equipment like body scanners, laser surgery systems, and biotech tools for making medicine. At NASA AMES Research Center, I worked on space-flight equipment used in space shuttle missions. At companies such as Varian, Watkins Johnson, and Teledyne, I worked on satellite communications and defense systems. My main skills are systems design, reverse engineering, new product integration, manufacturing, and sustaining engineering.

I have experience in several engineering areas, such as civil engineering infrastructure, mechanical HVAC, and piping and instrumentation diagrams. Living in Silicon Valley helps me keep up with new technologies and scientific discoveries. This allows me to work with the latest tools and ideas. In technology, knowledge and experience are a business’s most valuable assets.

I hope you enjoy reading this journal as much as I’ve enjoyed keeping record of it. Mahalo Nui Loa for visiting, and please feel free to look around.
Skills

I am incredibly thankful for the chance to acquire and develop numerous advanced skills over four decades of work. As technology advances, my computer competency expertise has continuously evolved and improved. My proficiency has reached a professional level, and I have gained the confidence to utilize my skills effectively.

Thankful for acquiring these valuable computer skills, I've had the opportunity to work in a variety of industries. My experience includes working in military defense, semiconductor fabrication and equipment, medical devices and capital equipment, civil engineering, solar thermal, and high-end home renovations. In every work setting, my proficiency in computer skills proved to be advantageous in adjusting to my duties and meeting the demands and standards of the company.

Although I have experienced stress, anxiety, depression, and humility, I am grateful for the chance to learn new technical skills, gain knowledge, and have valuable lifetime experiences. The true measure of wealth lies in the knowledge we accumulate, a priceless asset that can never be taken from us.

UX Design & Research:

Technical Publications:

CAD-Engineering:

CAD-Architectural:

Employment History

Reflecting on my time as a contractor, I recall the stress, office politics, and discrimination that often accompanied the job. Still, there were also good moments. I made great friends and learned lessons that have stayed with me throughout my career. That knowledge is priceless, just as a good education is.

Early in my career, I used to worry a lot about layoffs. But as I learned more and built up my skills, I felt more confident and less afraid of losing my job. I started to see layoffs as a chance to rest or even take a vacation. I knew I would need to find work again, but I only started looking when I really needed the income.

Later in my career, I dealt with age discrimination. Companies often choose younger, less experienced workers because they cost less than someone with my background. That was tough to accept. But from a business perspective, it makes sense to hire people who are up to date with the latest technology. If I were in their place, I might do the same. I realized that as you get older, you may not be as valuable to the company. To stay useful, it's important to help younger employees adjust to the workplace. Think of it as giving back to the advancement of technology and the collective good of the industry.

Keeping up with new technology can be tough, especially as you get older. Still, your experience and skills are valuable in any field. Try to see each new project as a chance to learn something new. As a contractor, you can help out wherever you're needed and keep things moving forward. When you work on projects like medical devices or renewable energy, you can feel proud knowing you're making a real difference. Every project is a step toward your next opportunity, so stay positive and look forward to what's ahead.

SUMMARY OF EXPERIENCE:

July 2022-Present, Writer - Author

I delved into the rich and captivating history of Honolulu's Chinatown Arts District, immersing myself in the vibrant and dynamic culture of the area. Driven by my love for writing, I channeled my passion into crafting my first fiction novel, "Hotel Street." Through my writing, I sought to capture the essence and spirit of this unique and fascinating locale, weaving together a tale that brings to life the sights, sounds, and characters of this vibrant community.
Hotel Street.

Hotel Street was the red light district and central hub of all activities in Honolulu during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The transfer of power from the Monarchy to the Provisional Government was marred by widespread corruption, leading to a chaotic atmosphere that resembled the lawless Wild West. The recent passage of the McKinley Tariff increased export taxes for Hawaii, which had previously enjoyed duty-free trade with the US.

Plantation owners wanted to annex Hawaii to save the economy and eliminate the McKinley Tariff taxes. However, this resulted in the dissolution of the Hawaiian Monarchy. King Kalakaua's health was affected by these events, and he secretly sought support from allies in California.

The journey of writing has its unique twists and turns. It takes courage to revisit the works we've created and make them better. That's precisely what I did when I finished writing "Hotel Street."

I returned and reviewed my first book, "Tales from Dad's Toolshed and Mom's Footlocker." It was a collection of stories I wrote for my kids, and it followed my father's journey from immigrating to Hawaii to work in the sugar plantations to moving to California as a farmworker. The stories reflected my father's indomitable spirit and resilience in adversity.

With a renewed sense of purpose, I re-wrote all the stories, added more graphics, and used AI technology to craft some new ones. The result was a book that I named "A Fil-Am Journey." My story picks up where my parents left off when our family settled in the Silicon Valley area. It's a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit to overcome obstacles and create a legacy that inspires future generations.


July 2019 to 2022 Honolulu Bohemian
I pursued my passion for digital arts as an artist-designer and continued my research in behavioral graphic communications by relocating to the Honolulu Arts District, Chinatown. The Board of Directors, led by Kim Taylor Reese, granted me an art studio lease at the Chinatown Artists Lofts, which the Hawaiian Arts and Performing Arts Committee approved for participation in the Mark's Garage art exhibitions and the First Friday Events on Hotel Street. However, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused economic setbacks that have hindered productivity. Only now, in the summer of 2021, productivity is beginning to pick up again.



APR 2018 - July 2019
Freelance Digital Designer
Vallejo California

As a designer, I've been fortunate enough to work on various exciting projects throughout my career. From creating stunning Medical Artwork, Animated Gifs, Event Flyers, Logos, Clip Art, to tackling home renovations, I've been able to showcase my creativity and passion for design.



However, since January 2020, things have been quiet on the job front. I suspect this is due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected many industries and businesses worldwide.

On the bright side, my experience designing for biotech pharmaceutical companies has given me a unique skill set. I'm well-versed in creating product handling labels that meet industry regulations and comply with FDA and GMP standards. Additionally, I've designed packing and shipping labels that conform to the international requirements of various foreign countries.

At manufacturing companies, I've had the opportunity to tackle a wide range of design challenges. I've learned and grown as a designer, from crafting artwork for product serial number nameplates to designing safety handling, hazardous materials, and product labels that guide proper operational application.

Dec 2017 - APR 2018
DRB Homes
CAD Artist, architectural-residential designer
Location: Alamo California
As an integral member of a collaborative team, I played a pivotal role in the design and execution of high-end residential renovations. My proficiency in CAD software, such as Chief Architect, proved instrumental in creating meticulous renderings, floor plans, and drawings that not only met but exceeded our clients' expectations. Working closely with the team from conceptualization to completion, I ensured that every aspect of the project was executed to perfection, resulting in visually stunning, functional, and captivating living spaces.


Mar 2016 – Oct 2017
Heliodyne Inc. (Solidworks, Autocad, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver)
Engineering Design Documentation Specialist
Location: Richmond California

During my previous employment, I was tasked with managing various responsibilities that pertained to subsystems. I was responsible for overseeing and coordinating activities related to these subsystems. Additionally, I contributed to developing and designing precise system weldment frames, sheet metal panels, brackets, and electronic control system assemblies. I also created plumbing and piping diagrams and assemblies, utilizing Solidworks CAD to design the assemblies. I prepared design documentation such as drawings, models, specifications, and production release documents as part of my duties. I created, approved, revised, and maintained design documentation and developed and suggested alternative design approaches whenever necessary.

Furthermore, I identified innovative product development solutions and developed, quoted, and executed plans to meet technical requirements and requests. I also assisted in the vendor selection/evaluation process. In addition, I supported the sales department with technical publications and data specification information and independently maintained installation and service manuals.

As part of my role, I engaged Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign to design wiring diagrams, labels, spec sheets, and manuals. Lastly, I created, updated, and maintained BOMs, new parts, assemblies, and sub-assemblies using the FishBowl database program.

CAD Contractor: 2011 to 2012
RF BIOCIDICS, Vacaville CA (Autodesk Inventor Professional 2012 & Autocad 2012)
Senior Designer, As an integral member of a dynamic design team, I actively developed advanced RF and Microwave systems for disinfecting and disinfesting food products. My responsibilities primarily involved working with my colleagues to ideate, design, and test cutting-edge technologies to ensure food products' safety, quality, and nutritional value. Our team's collective efforts created highly efficient and effective systems that have revolutionized the food industry's food safety and hygiene approach. The impact of our work has been significant, and the systems we developed have significantly contributed to the enhancement of food safety standards and practices in the industry.
2008 to 2009
APPLIED MATERIALS, Fairfield, CA (Solidworks 2008 & Autocad 2008)
Contract Mechanical Cad Designer
Developer of large-scale industrial glass-coating equipment. Supported core business by collaborating with colleagues in design of capital equipment. Created conceptual layouts from engineering design reviews. Facilitated engineering changes and upgrades to existing systems by providing design drafting expertise.


2006 to 2008
ACCURAY INCORPORATED, Sunnyvale, CA (Solidworks 2008 & Autocad)
Mechanical CAD Designer ECO Processor
Manufacturer of ground-breaking radio surgery medical technologies. Contributed to ongoing refinement of company’s robotic radio surgery product by writing and incorporating engineering change orders (ECOs) for new product integration of precision patient-positioning system. Created assembly and fabrication drawings for next system upgrade improvements. 2003 to 2006
I took the time off to spend quality time with my mother, who was diagnosed with cancer.




2001 to 2003
GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS, San Francisco, CA (CoCreate Solid Designer, Solidworks, Autocad Revit)
Mechanical CAD Designer
The company was a prominent developer of full body scanners, x-ray imaging, medical diagnostic, and biopharmaceutical technologies, now known as GE Healthcare. During my tenure, I took the initiative to revamp the engineering design review process by creating conceptual layouts and providing drafting support to facilitate engineering.


1998 to 2001
GENUS TECHNOLOGIES, Sunnyvale, CA (Pro-Engineer 2000i)
Mechanical CAD Designer
Genus Technologies is a company that specializes in the development of Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) systems for the semiconductor industry. As a hired contractor, I supported the core business by collaborating with colleagues to design CVD and ALD capital equipment. As part of my responsibilities, I utilized my expertise in design drafting to create conceptual layouts based on engineering design reviews and facilitated engineering changes and upgrades to existing systems.

Through my contributions, I assisted the engineering team in improving the quality assurance and efficiency of the equipment, which ultimately led to more tremendous operational success for the company.


1992 to 1998
SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGIES, Sunnyvale, CA (Pro-Engineer 2000i & Autocad)
Designer/Drafter – Technical Specialist
As a developer of integrated diagnostic and tester systems for the semiconductor industry, I provided drafting and design support for new product development of integrated diagnostic systems utilizing e-beam technology. My primary responsibilities included completing conceptual design layouts and standard drafting support for innovative diagnostic systems assemblies and tester equipment for back-end semiconductor development.




1991 to 1992
LORAL FAIRCHILD, Milpitas, CA (Autocad)
Contractor - Designer/Drafter
This division of Loral Fairchild's specializes in producing cutting-edge infrared camera surveillance systems. The systems are designed to serve in the security of both commercial and military defense sectors equally proficiently.




1989 to 1991
LOCKHEED LIFE SCIENCES @ NASA Ames Res Ctr, Moffet Field CA (Autocad)
Contractor - Designer/Drafter
I provided drafting and design support for an experimental space flight project that catered to the requirements of various customer countries such as Japan, Germany, and the United States. My work involved providing design and drafting support for space flight project requirements, ensuring compliance with the respective customer country standards. 1988 to 1989
WATKINS JOHNSON & VARIAN, Palo Alto, CA (Autocad & Manual drawing)
Contractor - Designer/Drafter
I was on assignment assisting a Joint Military Defense project between Watkins Johnson and Varian. Provided drafting and design support for Satellite Communications systems and provided design and standard drafting support for Signal Gun assemblies, TWT assemblies, and related power sources Satellite systems. 1982 to 1988
Teledyne CME, San Jose, CA (Autocad & Manual drawing by hand)
Drafter
As a part of the Military Defense project, I provided extensive drafting and design support for developing Airborne and Ship launched countermeasure equipment. The project required extraordinary attention to detail, as the equipment had to be meticulously designed to ensure maximum effectiveness while being lightweight and easy to operate. My role included collaborating with engineers and project managers to develop technical drawings and blueprints and providing input on materials selection and manufacturing methods. Throughout the project, I worked closely with the team to ensure that all designs complied with government regulations and standards and that the equipment was thoroughly tested and validated before deployment.


1981 to 1982
Naval Air Rework Facility (NARF), Naval Air Station Alameda, CA
Aircraft Power plant Mechanic
So, the day after I left the Navy with honor, I got a job as a temp worker for the civil service. I was working at the Depot level, where I was responsible for breaking down and rebuilding aircraft engines for the US Navy. I worked there for only one year and didn't seek permanent employment. I didn't want to be a grease monkey.
Academics

Although I like to joke about saying I spent 30 years in junior college, the truth is that I am still eager tolearn. Evenafter leaving the US Navy, I continued taking classes and searching for courses online. I worked full-time during the day, so I could only attend evening classes, which is where my self-deprecating joke stems from. Nowadays, I spend a lot of time online, and I make sure to take advantage of every opportunity to learn. Whether it involves improving my computer skills or reading informative articles and watching educational videos, I embrace each day as a chance to grow my knowledge.

Learning something new every day is more beneficial than just reading a book. It helps keep your brain active, prevents dementia, and can keep you feeling youthful. While it may not be as easy to keep your body young, I am determined to continue learning until the end of my days. I may not be a genius like Einstein, but I am satisfied with the knowledge and abilities I have acquired over time, which sets me apart from most people.

My aspiration is to motivate individuals to always pursue knowledge and never cease learning. I continue to takes classes at local colleges and universities even to this day.


EDUCATION:

2024 Spring & sessions
University of Hawai'i Manoa OLLI, Osher Liifelong Learning Institute,
Local Hawaiian Short Story class

2023 Spring & Fall sessions
University of Hawai'i Manoa OLLI, Osher Liifelong Learning Institute,
Book writiing, Short Story writiing, ,Llfe writing classes

2022
Diamond Head Theatre, Honolullu HI. acting classes

2021
edX classes online. HTML5 and UX Design courses on line.
Online courses offered are from well know universities across the nation and abroad.

2013
UC Berkeley extension San Francisco California - 2013
Post Baccalaureate Programs in pursuit of UX-UI design

2009-2010
LearniT Computer Traning Center & SFSU downtown off campus center, 2009 – 2010

1997-98 / 2005-07
University of San Francisco USF
2130 Fulton St, San Francisco, CA
Bachelor of Science, Organizational Behavior from the
College of Professional Studies, received undergraduate degree in 2007.

1991-92, 94-96
Mission College, Santa Clara California missioncollege.edu (part-time while working full-time)
General Education lower division transfer units, Vocational Certificate in Mechanical Drafting, Academic Certificate in Communications

1983-84
deanza.edu (part-time while working full-time)
General Education transfer units

1982
Masters Institute Santa Clara California, vocational training in Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design.

1981
Bay Valley Technical Institute Santa Clara California, vocational training in electro-mechanical drafting.
U.S. Navy Military Service

In my turbulent teenage days, I got into a lot of trouble. I was constantly drinking or getting high on marijuana. I was going nowhere fast, so I had to change and escape this losing lifestyle. After being stuck with dishwasher and warehouse jobs due to lacking skills, I found my way out through military service.

Initially, my main objective wasn't patriotism. I aimed to acquire a skill that would enable me to secure a decent job. Fortunately, I was assigned to the Naval Air Station Alameda, AIMD (Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Division), which was so close to my home, just by requesting it. I enlisted in the Navy as an Aviation Machinist Mate (Jet Engine Mechanic) to learn a skill. I put in a lot of effort and dedication, and it paid off as I rose to the E5-2nd Class Petty Officer rank in just three years. Despite excelling in my exams and studies, I struggled as a mechanic and I sucked big time at it.

Through my military experience, I learned the importance of teamwork. All of us needed to collaborate to succeed. Being in that environment, I gained a sense of gratitude, trust in my fellow sailors, and a strong sense of pride in being a part of a team and the American military. The military served as a second father figure and helped set me on the right path. If given the opportunity, I would embark on a military career and go to sea once again. Although I have considered returning, I am humbled and honored to have served and proud to be a veteran.

MILITARY SERVICE:

1977 - 1981 Active Service / 82-83 Reserves
U.S.Navy Veteran - Honorable Discharge Aviation Machinist Mate, PO2-ADJ (E5) Petty Officer 2nd Class (E5) Aviation Machinist Mate specializing in intermediate maintenance of jet aircraft engines and helicopter power plants. Last attached to AIMD and the HS-85 Antisubmarine Warfare Reconnaissance Squadron.