ETHAN KUNZ

Senior Embedded Systems
Electrical Engineer
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📍 Pleasant Hill, MO 64080 📱 cell: on request 📞 office: on request ✉️ ethan.douglas.kunz@gmail.com

Professional Summary

Senior Electrical Engineer specializing in Embedded Systems, PCB Design, and High-Power Electronics for mission-critical applications. From national security-grade design at Honeywell FM&T to extreme industrial automation at Nucor, I deliver end-to-end hardware solutions: schematic capture, mixed-signal layout (Altium/KiCad), firmware (C/C++, Python), and full-scale validation. I run a fully equipped personal laboratory (Saleae Pro 16, Metcal ultrasonic soldering, hot-flow rework) where prototypes are built and tested—not just simulated. Whether delivering nuclear-quality boards, niche power solutions, or edge AI systems, I bridge the gap between complex requirements and production-ready hardware.

Core Competencies

Embedded Systems & MCUs

  • Firmware Dev (C/C++, Python, Rust)
  • ESP32, STM32, RP2040, TI MSP430
  • Real-time Operating Systems (RTOS)
  • I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, Ethernet

Hardware Design (EDA)

  • PCB Design & Layout (Altium, KiCad)
  • Mixed-Signal & Analog Circuit Design
  • LTSpice Simulation & Validation
  • High-Voltage & Pulsed Power Systems

AI, ML & Signal Processing

  • Edge AI Inference (TensorFlow Lite, ST)
  • Sensor Fusion & Gesture Recognition
  • Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
  • mmWave Radar Integration

Industrial & Systems Engineering

  • PLC Programming & Industrial Controls
  • Full Program Lifecycle Management
  • V-Model Systems Engineering
  • Rapid Prototyping & QRC Delivery

Professional Experience

Honeywell FM&T / KCNSCKansas City, MO
Senior Electrical Engineer May 2024 – Present
Electrical Engineer III May 2022 – May 2024
Electrical Engineer II May 2020 – May 2022
  • Serves as a lead technical and project engineer for multi-million dollar pulse power initiatives, managing the design, implementation, and successful delivery of high-stakes national security systems.
  • Technical Design & R&D Excellence:
  • Proactively spearheaded a strategic R&D effort as the electrical lead, collaborating with Micro-Electronics to develop novel Li-Fi communication designs and three functional, high-performance prototypes.
  • Architected and executed the end-to-end design of multiple pulse power systems, from initial concept and EDA-based simulation (LTSpice/Altium) through Final Design Review (FDR) and mission-ready product delivery.
  • Modernized testing and design for three legacy national security components, delivering full technical data packages and ensuring long-term mission reliability through nine distinct milestones.
  • Led research and development across 5 projects, applying DFSS Green Belt methodologies to produce 3 patent disclosures in Li-Fi technology and software firesets, with 1 patent released by Honeywell for mmWave radar technology.
  • System Integration & Rapid Prototyping:
  • Advanced firmware development across multiple architectures including STM32, Renesas RA, and RP2350.
  • Rescued a high-priority Special Projects program by debugging and resolving critical software defects, filling a key technical gap and saving weeks of troubleshooting to keep a rapid delivery on schedule.
  • Executed an intense QRC (Quick Reaction Capability) to manufacture and test 30 full-scale systems, personally conducting over 200 hours of testing to save 50% of the deliverable under tight deadlines.
  • Mentored junior engineers by integrating them directly into hardware/software development workflows, including unit testing for major QRC deliveries, while ensuring adherence to high-reliability standards.
  • Developed a security-compliant local network architecture for CMM workflows, streamlining data transfer and saving thousands of labor hours on multi-million dollar projects.
  • Technical Project Oversight:
  • Orchestrated technical execution across the pulse power portfolio, ensuring resource forecasts and technical roadmaps remained aligned with shifting mission requirements.
  • Directly secured follow-on multi-million dollar projects by delivering high-quality results on complex technical tasks (e.g., TTN->HSH initiatives).
  • Maintains a deep understanding of full product lifecycle management, ensuring technical integrity from prototype development through industrial-scale production.
Nucor CorporationLongview, TX & Blytheville, AR
Electrical Projects Lead Dec 2019 – Apr 2020
  • Directed electrical modernization projects across three departments (200 personnel) at a massive 100,000 ton/year plate steel facility — coordinating staffing, equipment requirements, and budget proposals for each initiative.
  • Key Projects: Integration of a new steel Quench process, full redesign of the power feed system for 9 heavy industrial furnaces, and implementation of a modern ABB drive system — improving quality, productivity, and operational surety.
Industrial Electrical Technician May 2018 – Dec 2019
  • Worked grueling 12-hour rotating shifts as the sole electrical technician responsible for the rolling mill and finishing departments, maintaining uptime in extreme environmental conditions. This was on top of performing the role of Projects Lead in between lead technical production work.
Co-op/Internship May 2015-Dec 2015; May 2016-Sep 2016
Global Rescue SystemsColumbia, MO
Electrical Design Engineer Aug 2017 – Mar 2018
  • Non-profit consultant designing ruggedized life-saving devices for first responders and the Coast Guard.

Technical Project Leadership

Approach: A technical-first leader who sets the standard for implementation excellence. I combine high-level strategic oversight with hands-on mastery in board-level design, firmware development, and system integration to ensure mission success and technical integrity.

Technical Oversight & Excellence

  • Lead multi-disciplinary teams in high-reliability hardware/software development projects, from initial concept to final deployment.
  • Maintain technical accountability for mission-critical systems, ensuring all design and implementation steps meet stringent quality standards.
  • Developed technical talent by creating hands-on training for critical program roles — ensuring teams could execute on complex pulse power and communication projects.
  • Advocate for rigorous engineering practices, including comprehensive unit testing, simulation-driven design, and meticulous documentation.

Strategic Problem Solving

  • Cross-pollinate ideas across science and engineering domains (e.g., material science, micro-electronics) to seed new R&D concepts and rapid prototyping initiatives.
  • Translate complex organizational requirements into clear, actionable technical roadmaps for engineering teams.
  • Bridge the gap between hardware and software teams to ensure seamless system integration and optimal performance.
  • Experienced in re-baselining projects when technical challenges arise, ensuring continued progress and stakeholder confidence.

Work Style & Technical Assets

Professional In-House Lab

  • Built and Tested—Not Just Simulated: Maintains a professional lab for rapid prototyping and validation of high-reliability hardware.
  • Equipment: Saleae Pro 16 logic analyzers, Metcal ultrasonic soldering, hot-flow rework stations, 4K digital microscope with manipulator set.
  • Instrumentation: High-precision bench power supplies, spectrum analyzers, and a deep inventory of dev kits (STM32, Renesas, RP2350).
  • Capabilities: Mixed-signal PCB assembly, hot-air rework, fine-pitch soldering, and real-time logic/protocol debugging.

High-Fidelity Engineering

  • Technical Authority: Hands-on mastery from schematic capture through multi-layer PCB layout to firmware deployment.
  • Rapid Turnaround: Specialized in Quick Reaction Capability (QRC) for evolving hardware requirements and mission-critical timelines.
  • Infrastructure: Deploys local AI (Ollama, CUDA) and automation (n8n) to accelerate hardware/firmware co-design.
  • Quality Assurance: Nuclear-grade design standards applied to every build, ensuring DFM/DFA for seamless contract manufacturing.

Military Service

US Army ReservesKansas City, MO & Honduras
Biomedical Equipment Technician (E5) May 2011 – Jun 2021
  • Served 10 years (including active duty) in critical leadership roles:
  • 1st Platoon Sergeant (2020 – 2021): Led and oversaw a platoon of 22 soldiers.
  • NCOIC of Biomedical Section (Feb 2018 – Jun 2021): Managed a section of 8 technicians.
  • Deployment Impact: Completed a 9-month deployment to Honduras supporting JTF-B. Served as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the U.S. Embassy and drafted CAD layouts for a hospital expansion project.
  • Coordinated missions, funding, scheduling, training, and personnel operations for the 325th Combat Hospital.

Education

Master of Business AdministrationGPA: 4.0/4.0
LeTourneau University | Longview, TX
Bachelor of Science, Electrical EngineeringCum Laude
Missouri University of Science and Technology | Rolla, MO
Biomedical Technician Certification (BMET)>95%
Medical Education and Training Campus, CCAF | Fort Sam Houston, TX

Licenses & Certifications

  • Active (Issuer: United States Federal Government, Renewed: Jun 2025, Expires: 2030)
  • Bio-medical Equipment Technician (Issuer: METC, Issued: Aug 2012, Credential ID: 4B-F2/198-68A10)
  • U.S. Customs Border Clearance Agent (Issuer: United States Department of War, Issued: Feb 2017)
  • Knowledge Management (Issuer: SOUTHCOM Certified)
  • Forklift and Aerial Manlift Operator (Issuer: Southland Safety, LLC., Issued: Jun 2018)
  • Confined and Open Water Diving (Issuer: PADI, Issued: Feb 2017)
  • Military Drivers License (Humvee, M35) (Issuer: US Army, Issued: Jan 2019)
  • Range Safety Officer (RSO) (Issuer: A CO Det. 1 US ARMY 325th CSH, Issued: Jan 2019)
  • DFSS Green Belt Lean Six Sigma (Issuer: KCNSC, Issued: 2020)

Technical Expertise (Snapshot)

Technical Management

Staff Development, Hiring & Training
Budgeting, Staffing & Resource Forecasting

Quality & Data Analytics

Statistical Process Control & Quality Metrics
Data Visualization (Python, VBA, SQL)

Engineering Disciplines

Pulsed Power & High-Voltage Systems
Embedded Systems (ESP/STM/MSP)

Program & Project Tools

PM Methodologies (JIRA, MS Project)
Hardware Design (Altium, KiCad, LTSpice)

Comprehensive Skills & Expertise

Management & Leadership

  • Direct Supervision & Staff Development
  • Complex Program & Project Management
  • Staffing Plans & Resource Forecasting
  • Technical Writing, Training & Curriculum Development

Data Analytics & Quality

  • Statistical Modeling & Process Control
  • Data Visualization (Python, SQL, VBA)
  • Business Metrics & Quality Assurance
  • MS SQL Server, T-SQL, MySQL

Software & Programming

  • C++, C#, Python, VBA
  • Web/DB: HTML/JS/CSS, ASP.NET Web API
  • DevOps/IT: MS Office, Cisco Tech, Docker

Hardware Design & Analysis (EDA)

  • Altium Designer, KiCad
  • Mixed-Signal PCB Layout
  • DFM/DFA for Production
  • LTSpice & Signal Integrity Simulation
  • Logic 2.4, STM32Cube

AI, Models & Platforms

  • Local AI Infrastructure: Ollama, Open WebUI, LM Studio, CUDA-accelerated inference
  • AI Automation: Agentic AI workflows, n8n pipelines with LLM integration, Docker containerized deployment
  • LLMs: Claude (Opus, Sonnet, Haiku), DeepSeek, Gemini Pro, Grok, ChatGPT, Perplexity
  • Edge AI: ST MEMS Studio, Random Forest, Neural Networks, on-device inference & classification
  • AI-Integrated Dev: AI CLI/IDE integrations, embedded AI in browser, Linux AI development environments
  • Skills: Prompt engineering, agentic AI design, signal processing with ML, SVG-based ML visualization

Embedded Systems & MCUs

  • ESP32, STM32, MSP TI
  • RP2040, Atmega / Attiny
  • Teensy 4.1, Beaglebone Black

Industrial Controls

  • Wonderware, Proficy Machine Edition
  • FactoryTalk, Portal S7 Siemens
  • Controllogix 5000, SLC500

Specialized Domains

  • RF Design & High-Power Electronics
  • Pulse Power & High-Voltage
  • Li-Fi & Wireless Communication
  • Industrial Automation (PLC/SCADA)
  • Biomedical & Life-Saving Systems
  • Safety-Critical Design

Personal Lab & R&D Projects

EchoFlux — mmWave Gesture Controller

  • Developing a desk-mounted, contactless gesture controller using TI AWR6843AOPEVM mmWave radar and RP2350 MCU.
  • Embedded C firmware with real-time signal processing and AI-driven gesture classification.
  • Tech: mmWave Radar, Embedded C, Sensor Fusion, RP2350

Financial Hub Automation

  • Python-based AI system to automate the processing and intelligent visualization of financial documents.
  • LLM-powered extraction and analysis pipeline for document understanding.
  • Tech: Python, LLM Integration, Data Visualization

Human Presence Detector

  • Built an IoT detection system utilizing DFRobot C4001 mmWave sensor and Raspberry Pi Pico.
  • Smart home automation with AI-enhanced occupancy detection.
  • Tech: IoT, mmWave, Raspberry Pi Pico

Local AI Infrastructure

  • Deployed containerized LLM stack (Ollama, Open WebUI, LM Studio) with CUDA acceleration.
  • Built n8n automation workflows integrating multiple AI models for engineering productivity.
  • Tech: Docker, CUDA, n8n, LLM, Prompt Engineering

Honors & Awards

Civilian Honors

  • 5 BRAVO Awards - Honeywell FM&T
  • 3 Patent Submission Recognitions - Honeywell FM&T
  • 1 Patent Submission Radar Tech - Personally Owned

Military Honors

  • Certificate of Appreciation (Aug 2020) Issued by Pentagon, DiLorenzo TRICARE Health Clinic. For enhancing patient experiences during assistance in August 2020.
  • Army Achievement Medal (Jul 2017) Issued for service as a Medical Maintenance NCO in Honduras. Citation Highlights: Acted as SME for the U.S. Embassy; Demonstrated versatility by drafting a CAD-based survey layout for a potential new hospital; Optimized the maintenance section by acquiring over 100 technical manuals.
  • The Army Commendation Medal & Brigade Coin (Jun 2014) Issued for actions during "Operation Appalachia Care." Citation Highlights: Redesigned duct ports, saving tens of thousands of dollars; Designed an optical phoropter counterbalance, increasing patient flow; Contributed to a record-breaking 8,000+ patients served.
  • SGM Coin (Jun 2016) Awarded for scoring expert marksmanship proficiency.
  • The Army Achievement Medal (Aug 2012) For meritorious achievement in being selected as the Distinguished Honor Graduate for the Biomedical Equipment Specialist Course.
  • Certificate of Achievement (Jul 2012) For scoring an exceptionally high score (296/300) on the Army Physical Fitness Test.

Volunteer & Community Involvement

FIRST in Missouri
Judge Oct 2022 – Present
  • Acted as a judge for FIRST Robotics Competitions, judging teams on long-term projects and robotics design. Assisted in deciding which teams advanced to regionals and assigned awards.
Asociación Hogar NazarethHonduras
Volunteer Sep 2016 – Aug 2017
  • Performed work during military deployment free time. Purchased and installed washing equipment, showers, and other hardware fixes.
  • Set up a computer and internet network to enhance schooling for the girls' home.
  • Provided security recommendations (e.g., higher walls, electric fencing) after a security incident.
Combined Federal Campaign (CFC)
CFC Manager Nov 2016 – Aug 2017
  • Promoted, tracked, managed, and sponsored events and donations for the campaign.
Operation Appalachia Care
Biomedical Technician May 2014 – Jun 2014
  • Provided medical aid to low-income areas of the Appalachians as part of a joint state and federal cooperative.
Teen Challenge NY & Dream Center LA
Child & Homeless Outreach 2009 – 2010
  • Assisted at-risk children and homeless populations, including gang violence and prostitution outreach.