Rob Brewster Customs
ABOUT
CUSTOM DESIGN & FABRICATION SINCE 2004
Unique, high quality, innovative solutions.
EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA
Industrial Technology, BS, In-Progress
Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, CA
Associate of Science, 2000
University of Northwestern Ohio, Lima
High Performance Automotive Technician, 1996
Full Academic Scholarship, Magna Cum Laude
ABYC Marine Electrical Certification 2019-2024
Elevated Work Platform Operator Certification 2015-current
NFPA 70E/Arch Flash Electrical Safety 2015-current
Forklift Operator Certification 2014-current
Motor Boat Operator Certification Course (MOCC) 2014-current
Laboratory Safety Training 2011-current
PADI, Rescue, NITROX scuba diving 2008-current
Cobalt Boats Service School 2002-current
A.S.E Automotive Technician 1996-2001
Placed 2nd in national Ford/AAA Auto Skills competition 1995
EXPERTISE
-
Expert-level skills in the design, fabrication, construction of unique components and equipment with accuracy and precision using oral or written communications, or computer-generated models, blueprints, or schematics.
-
Proficient in troubleshooting repair and calibration of electronic equipment and instrumentation to the component level using oscilloscopes, voltmeters, scanners and other diagnostic equipment.
-
Trained operator of machine tools including manual lathes, mills, welders, plasma cutters, torches, sheet metal brakes, shears, punches, sanders, grinders and other precision tools.
-
Knowledge of characteristics and limits of materials including ferrous and non-ferrous alloy metals, wood, plastics, glass, surface coating materials and their related applications.
-
Skilled in GTAW, GMAW, SMAW welding, brazing, soldering, cutting, and forming of ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
-
Skilled in HAAS CNC milling
-
Skilled operator and fabricator of remote controlled vehicles
-
Knowledge of all aspects in safe tool use.
-
Operator of heavy machinery including tractors, backhoes, forklifts, hoists, cranes
-
Fluent in AutoCAD and SolidWorks.
-
Fluent Microsoft software: Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
​
EMPLOYMENT
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA 2011 – Present
Electro/Mechanical Equipment Technician III – College of Science and Mathematics
-
Responsible for the design, custom fabrication, installation, and maintenance of scientific equipment to support the College’s largest academic unit. Examples include: intricate and/or obsolete replacement parts, specialty instruments, apparatus, cabinetry, specialized field trapping equipment, surveillance and monitoring systems, and aquatic tank and support systems.
-
Trained in safety guidelines for the repair of potentially biohazardous or contaminated equipment.
-
Safely install large, heavy, or delicate instruments in lab and field settings using specialized equipment.
-
Communicate effectively with students, faculty, and staff: provide creative advice, answer questions, explain policies and procedures, and ensure the requirements of each research program are met.
-
Regularly maintain equipment: modify existing or outdated equipment to meet changing needs; use cost effective alternatives to origional equipment manufacture parts; assess and determine when repair costs exceed value.
-
Assist pier staff with all aspects concerning the operation and the maintenance of the Flowing Seawater Facility at the Coastal Center for Marine Science Pier, including electronic and manual control systems and on-line system monitoring programming. Consult with pier staff on implementation of system upgrades and improvements. Develop the ability to independently respond to and troubleshoot system failures.
-
Maintenance and repair of advanced hi performance outboard engines (pier marine vessels). Follow manufacture-specified engine maintenance schedules and keep detailed service logs of all work performed. Willingness to obtain additional technical training on outboard engine repair as needed.
-
Diagnose and repair scientific instruments to component level; perform calibration and quality control tests to ensure reliability, repeatability, and safety
-
Establish preventative maintenance schedule and provide technical service to scientific instruments, industrial equipment, and refrigeration systems.
-
Prioritize projects based on multiple factors and produce quality work in a busy environment with overlapping deadlines and frequent interruptions
-
Apply independent judgment and initiative to address problems and develop practical, thorough, and creative solutions; research emerging technologies and integrate into research labs and classrooms.
TYVAK Nano-Satellite Systems, Inc., San Luis Obispo, CA 2014 – 2016
Design Consultant
-
Nano-satellite, deployment concepts, research, design, and prototyping.
​
Rob Brewster Customs, San Luis Obispo, CA 2009 – Present
Owner/Operator
-
Independently responsible for all aspects of business including design and fabrication of unique projects, installation and maintenance of new or existing equipment, communication and follow-up with clientele, and the advertising and financial management of the business.
-
Restoration of automotive and marine equipment including the identification and diagnosis of points of failure, research and redesign of replacement parts, and restoring machinery and electronics to original working conditions.
-
Identify, research, and acquire economically appropriate materials staying within budget, on time.
-
Communicate oral and written ideas directly with clients with the aid of computer-generated designs.
-
Employ a user-friendly design system enabling reliable and safe use of products by clientele.
-
Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a busy shop and adhere to projected time lines despite interruptions and delays; reprioritize projects when necessary.
-
Restore Yachts and powerboats, including installation, testing and calibration of electrical systems, actuators (air and hydraulic), pumps, sensors, ballasts, and the design and installation of running and standing rigging.
​
Brewster Enterprises, San Luis Obispo, CA 2002 - 2009
Partner, Construction Foreman, and Builder
-
Established and executed a preventative maintenance schedule for tools and equipment
-
Oversaw construction projects, managed and worked alongside subcontractors
-
Experience in Class C electrical wiring and low voltage systems
-
Concrete, framing, tile, paint, plumbing, roofing, siding
-
Design, manufacturing, and installation of fine woodworking and custom cabinetry, including aquatic tank stands and supporting plumbing systems
-
Environmentally conscience demolition
California Correct Craft, Riverside, CA 2001 - 2002
Repair Technician and Service Manager
-
Managed 6 employees and worked as a diagnostic and repair technician
-
Instructed boat owners on safe operating procedures and general boating awareness
-
Regular use of 12-volt electrical systems
Maximum Motorsports, San Luis Obispo, CA 1997 - 1998
Welder and Fabricator
-
Researched and developed new automotive components
-
Fabricated production fixtures and jigs
-
Maintained tools and equipment
Noble Saw, San Luis Obispo, CA 1993 - 1995
Small Engine Repair Technician
-
Repaired outdoor power equipment
-
Assisted customers with new purchases
-
Offered technical advice to customers