We know that the expertise and dedication of our team members are what fuel our continued success. This month, we’re excited to highlight Brad Raker, a seasoned professional whose 38-year journey in manufacturing and engineering led him to be a Senior Design Engineer for Molded Dimensions Group.
Tell us a bit about your past experience and your current role at Molded Dimensions Group.
I began working in manufacturing 38 years ago, molding RIM interior and exterior components for the heavy-duty trucking industry. Early on, I was inspired by the engineers and technical team I worked with, which sparked my interest in pursuing a career in engineering. That led me to further my education and transition into roles within engineering and research & development.
One of the most formative projects I participated in was exploring low-pressure thermoplastic injection molding, which opened the door for me to enter the industry. I later joined a company in the Seattle-Tacoma area, where I had the privilege of learning from the owner—a skilled toolmaker who had built his own molding business. That experience was invaluable and helped shape my approach to the craft.
After 28 years in molding plastic parts, I joined Molded Dimensions Group. Over the past 10 years, I’ve continued to grow professionally, working alongside another exceptional team of toolmakers, molding experts, and engineers. It’s been rewarding to be part of a company that has evolved into a leading molder in our region.
What does a typical day as Senior Design Engineer in Fife, Washington look like?
In my current role, I focus on providing technical support for our customers, working closely with both the production and engineering teams to ensure we deliver high-quality molded components. I’m actively involved in design reviews, offering input on Design for Manufacturability (DFM) to help optimize part geometry for efficient and reliable molding. I work with CAD models to evaluate tooling and part designs, and I provide recommendations for material options based on performance requirements and cost considerations.
A key part of my role also includes tooling design consultation—advising on mold design, tooling materials, and construction methods to ensure durability, precision, and cost-effectiveness. I really enjoy mentoring newer team members and passing along the knowledge I’ve gained over the years. Being part of a collaborative environment where ideas are valued and innovation is encouraged makes each day fulfilling. No two days are the same—every day brings a new challenge and a new opportunity to learn and grow.
Tell us about an experience that made you feel like you belonged at Molded Dimensions Group.
It’s hard to point to just one moment, but I’ve felt a strong sense of belonging from the start thanks to the team here. We’ve got a great group—talented, supportive, and genuinely fun to work with. Whether it’s teaming up on a tough project, sharing a laugh during a break, or bouncing ideas around in a design review, there’s a real sense of camaraderie. Everyone brings something valuable to the table, and that makes it easy to feel like you’re part of something special. The consistency of those everyday interactions is what really makes me feel at home here.
What is a recent project that you worked on or are working on that you found particularly interesting or fulfilling?
One recent project that I really enjoyed was a prototype build that brought together several of my past experiences in design, molding, and materials. We partnered with a customer to produce a small run of functional prototypes using 3D-printed carbon fiber composite parts, which were then molded into a thermoset flexible urethane. To make it happen, we developed a unique vacuum casting process using SLA resin-printed molds. It was a great example of blending modern additive manufacturing with traditional molding techniques, and it was rewarding to see how our team’s combined expertise helped bring a complex concept to life.
Why do you like working at Molded Dimensions Group?
What I really enjoy about working at Molded Dimensions Group is the people. There’s a great sense of teamwork here, and I genuinely like being part of a team that’s focused on solving problems together. Whether it’s helping a coworker troubleshoot a design challenge or working with a customer to find the best solution for their application, I get a lot of satisfaction from being useful and making things work. It’s not just about the technical side—it’s about the relationships and the shared wins. That’s what makes it a great place to come to work every day.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to stay curious and adventurous. I enjoy camping and overlanding—getting off the beaten path and exploring new places is always a thrill. I’m also a big fan of reading, especially action-packed novels like Jack Reacher or Jack Ryan. Another passion of mine is discovering international and ethnic foods. I enjoy learning about different cultures through their cuisine, whether it’s trying out a new recipe at home or finding a hidden gem of a restaurant.
Do you have any secret talents?
One of my secret talents is being a bit of a rabbit hole explorer. I tend to get deeply curious about a topic—whether it’s a hobby, a technical concept, or something random I stumbled across—and I dive in headfirst. YouTube is usually my launchpad, and before I know it, I’ve absorbed a ton of information, connected it to other ideas, and learned way more than I ever expected. I wouldn’t call myself an expert in any one thing, but I’ve got a wide range of knowledge across a lot of subjects—some obscure, some just fascinating. It’s a fun way to keep learning and stay mentally engaged, and it often leads to interesting conversations or unexpected insights at work.
