Derek Bowen
About Derek Bowen
Derek Bowen is a Senior Development Engineer at Milliken & Company, where he has worked for 44 years. He has experience in supervising the Prototype sewing department and managing customer requests related to inflatable side impact curtains.
Current Role at Milliken & Company
Derek Bowen currently holds the position of Senior Development Engineer at Milliken & Company, where he has worked since 1980. With over 44 years of experience in the company, he has a significant role in the Prototype sewing department. His responsibilities include the development of inflatable side impact curtains, a critical component in automotive safety. He also manages customer Requests for Quotation (RFQ) related to these products, ensuring that client needs are met efficiently.
Previous Experience at Milliken & Company
Before his current role, Derek Bowen served as Production Superintendent at Milliken & Company from 1987 to 1990. During this three-year tenure, he worked in the Pine Mountain Weaving facility. In this position, he gained valuable experience in production management and operations, contributing to the company's manufacturing processes.
Education and Expertise
Derek Bowen studied at LaGrange College from 1973 to 1977, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in History and an MBA. His educational background provides him with a strong foundation in both historical context and business management, which supports his role in engineering and production within the textile industry.
Specialized Projects and Responsibilities
In his current role, Derek Bowen coordinates the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) submissions specifically for inflatable curtain projects. This involves ensuring that all production parts meet the necessary quality standards before they are approved for manufacturing. His focus on inflatable side impact curtains highlights his expertise in automotive safety features.