Sam Dirani

I continue to work on a variety of projects with clients across the US and abroad. Projects ranging from product design, medical product design, furniture design, branding, logo design, marketing, interior design, packaging, schematics, renderings, 3D modeling, lighting, soft goods, fashion, teaching, and custom projects.

Successfully built the Hangar6 program from the ground up, helping companies introduce new products and entrepreneurs to launch new businesses in the process.
Trained all staff, interns, volunteers, and users on equipment using my personal safety and training protocols--resulting in zero injuries and accidents during my tenure.
Implemented a design/shop services program, resulting in affordable access to much-needed design/shop services as well as increased success for a variety of early-stage companies.
Developed custom proof-of-concept design solutions to advanced problems utilizing a combination of skills including sketching, verbal/conceptual communication, CAD, Additive manufacturing, traditional fabrication, and CNC machining--Allowing entrepreneurs to affordably enter the market as well as win multiple grants, investor funding, and DOD contracts.
Provided regular mentoring, consultation, and solutions-empowering users on equipment, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Operated and maintained 3000sqft of shop machinery, tools, and equipment, including eight 3D printers on a daily basis(FDM, Metal, Nylon, High Temp, SLS Resin). Ensured that the shop was always sufficiently stocked and kept in a safe and orderly condition.
Fabricated large quantities of precision parts, in record time, from a variety of materials working from models, drawings, diagrams, and sketches to assist both individuals and larger companies with commercial/Federal contracts.
Launched the “Talking Shop” series to give members of the entrepreneurial and business communities a means to connect, learn and discuss solutions to manufacturing and business hurdles.
Spearheaded the opening of the Hangar6 program to high-school students participating in projects such as NC First Robotics, as well as college students from both Biomedical engineering(UNC/NCSU) and Aerospace engineering departments (NCSU). Increasing access to advanced technology and the success of student projects.

With a close friend, I developed a free children's Science program currently reaching 3000+ students across four states. I developed our company brand and manage public relations, as well as generating marketing plans, educational product designs and merchandising. I designed a simple and engaging user interface and managed the website construction of www.lightupeducation.com. I developed stories and scripts with original characters. Managed budgeting and film scheduling. I Created Foley sound effects, directed and edited content, as well as designed/fabricated props and costumes. I also designed/fabricated physical sets, designed digital sets using Rhino/Hypershot, and managed set lighting.

Our program is free for all and can be enjoyed at www.lighteducation.com

As part of the design management team, I met with clients regularly, helping to guide projects from start to finish. I communicated and coordinated directly with project architects, contractors, and suppliers. I generated daily ideation for product designs, including component details and materials sourcing. I produced numerous detailed structural/mechanical documents utilizing Rhino and Cad on a daily basis while managing a multitude of projects all at different stages of progress with overlapping timelines. I helped fabricate/install projects as needed, including the wiring of complex electrical components. I also conducted interviews and helped train/mentor design interns.

At Point Concepts, I was responsible for exhibit fabrication, custom designs and detail development, while adhering to budgets and managing multiple projects with tight deadlines. I performed custom installations, coordinated directly with architects and construction teams. I also managed the fabrication shop, including inventory and maintenance of all equipment. I re-designed an outdated 8 year design staple at Point Concepts. Updated the design and reduced production time from two-weeks to 8 hours, increasing product orders exponentially. I lead the design and execution of custom projects including mock-ups, budgeting, material sourcing, manufacturing processes, protocols, documentation, as well as production time lines.

As a Design Assistant, I helped address and solve logistic problems throughout the College of Design. I was also solely responsible for improving energy efficiency through the custom design and fabrication of CFL-adapters for track lighting used throughout the college campus in studios, hallways, and conference rooms.

As a Research Assistant, on a collaborative project for the Center for Universal Design, I conducted research and design development of an "aging suit" intended for Human Factors studies. I designed, built and tested mock-ups/prototypes ultimately providing a design solution for 2" phase testing.

I operated the College of Design Materials Lab evenings and weekends. I taught and supervised all users how to use and safely operate shop machines. I assisted hundreds of students in ideating and solving any design problems they encountered.

I assisted in the teaching of Advanced Materials and Processes classes. I guided students in the proper and safe use of all machines and equipment. I helped students critique their designs. Provided advice regarding ideal fabrication processes and developing proper order-of-operations.

I designed and built a variety of exhibit products using wood, metal, plastic, and fabric. I learned how to rapidly design and fabricate products within a time-limited, high stress environment. I developed a new product and a modified thermo-forming process reducing production time from 40 to 8 hrs. I also taught and trained new employees on all procedures and techniques.