Bret Hawkins
About Bret Hawkins
Bret Hawkins is a Senior Machinist at BLUE ORIGIN with extensive experience in machining, fabrication, and process improvement.
Current Title at BLUE ORIGIN
Bret Hawkins is currently serving as a Senior Machinist at BLUE ORIGIN in Kent, Washington. He began this role in 2021. As a Senior Machinist, he focuses on precise machining techniques and the development of top-quality aerospace components, leveraging his extensive experience in the field.
Previous Roles and Experience
Bret Hawkins has a robust career in the machining and fabrication industry. His previous roles include a Machinist at BLUE ORIGIN from 2017 to 2020, Lead CNC Programmer/Machinist at Aeroforge Manufacturing from 2014 to 2017, and Machinist 3 at Cascade Designs from 2013 to 2014. Earlier in his career, he worked as a Machinist 2 at Ingersoll Rand and held multiple positions at Magnum Venus Products from 2004 to 2012.
Education and Technical Training
Bret Hawkins pursued technical training at the Clark County Skills Center, where he completed a two-year program in Computer Integrated Manufacturing from 1998 to 2000. He also attended Ridgefield High School, completing his education there from 1996 to 2000. His education laid a solid foundation for his career in machining and fabrication.
Expertise in Machining and Fabrication
Hawkins has extensive expertise in machining and fabrication, particularly in metal removal and precision techniques. His background includes significant roles in welding and CNC programming, particularly during his tenure at Aeroforge Manufacturing and Magnum Venus Products. This diverse experience enables him to solve complex problems and improve manufacturing processes.
Passion for Process Improvement
Bret Hawkins is passionate about Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA), focusing on enhancing manufacturing ease and efficiency. He takes great satisfaction in problem-solving and refining processes to achieve superior quality at a faster pace or reduced cost. This passion drives his collaboration with top professionals in machining and engineering to elevate organizational success.