Sumanth Gokapai

About Sumanth Gokapai

Innovative and adaptable professional with over seven years of experience in manufacturing execution systems (MES), data analysis, and engineering across three continents. I possess a unique blend of technical expertise and functional knowledge that enables me to bridge the gap between operational efficiency and technology.My core competencies include: • Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES): Expertise in deploying and optimizing MES solutions, integrating plant systems with ERP platforms, and ensuring data integrity to drive productivity and quality improvements. • Data Analysis: Proficient in data analysis and reporting, utilizing tools such as Excel and Power BI to provide actionable insights that inform decision-making and enhance operational processes. • Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC): Involved in requirement gathering, documentation, fit-gap analysis, and addressing functional queries during development and testing phases, ensuring successful deployments and providing post-go-live support (PGLS). • Agile Methodology: Experienced in working within Agile frameworks, participating in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and retrospectives to promote collaboration and ensure timely delivery of projects. • Process Optimization: Skilled in process flow design, cost estimation, and implementation of standardized testing methods, focusing on improving efficiency and reducing cycle times in manufacturing environments. • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders, ensuring alignment on project goals and fostering a collaborative environment. • Adaptability: Thrives in dynamic and multicultural settings, leveraging strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to overcome challenges and deliver results.I am passionate about leveraging technology to enhance manufacturing processes and operational excellence, ultimately contributing to improved productivity and success for organizations.

Experience

1. Mes Analyst - Consultant

   Cargill

   Jan 2019 — Present · Wayzata, MN, US

   Implemented Manufacturing Execution System (MES) – Savigent, connecting plant floor systems to ERP systems (SAP ECC, S4HANA, SAP MII, Lynx) while adhering to ISA-95 standards. • Integrate food quality machines (Bruker, HPLC, GC NIR), platform scales (Mettler Toledo, Avery Weigh), Label printers administration using Bartender and data historians (AVEVA/ OSI PI, PI Data Link, PI Data Vision) into MES for operational efficiency. • Plan and deploy MES solutions across 80 sites, enabling customer order processing from ERP systems for Cargill’s Remote Shipping Salt, Food & Fuel, and Mill businesses. • Assist in selection, architect, and integrating the RFID systems (AMTECH, SAIC, SICK) for hazardous environments, ensuring compliance with Class 1 Div 1 (NEMA 7) and Class 2 Div 2 (NEMA 4/IP65/67) standards. Oversee RFID implementation lifecycle, including architecture, configuration, testing, and MES/ERP integration while ensuring safety for intrinsically safe installations. • Collaborate with internal stakeholders, software vendors, and IT teams to implement standardized MES systems. • Gather business requirements and create solution documents, including Application Overview Documents (AOD). • Develop Train-the-Trainer materials and conduct training for Superusers to facilitate MES adoption. • Travel to Cargill plants to document current processes and recommend automation improvements. • Provide 24x7 support during critical project phases (QAT, UAT, PGLS), ensuring timely defect resolution. • Document process functions through Manufacturing Operations Management (MOM) maps and use case definitions to identify automation opportunities. • Work with Project Managers and cross-functional teams to streamline ERP (SAP ECC, MII, TM, FIORI), MES, and plant control system integration. • Conduct Fit-Gap Analysis and multisite comparisons to derive unified workflows. • Manage multiple projects and report on progress and metrics using Microsoft Excel and Power BI.

Education

• Minnesota State University, Mankato

  Master of Science - MS, Manufacturing Engineering Technology

• Acharya Nagarjuna University (ANU), Guntur

  Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.), Mechanical Engineering

• University of the Cumberlands

  Master's degree, Information Technology