Current: Project Manager, 2024 - Present,
Wallwork Group
Wallwork Group
As a Project Manager at Wallwork, I am working in Project Engineering and Development pushing the companies developments forward whilst diversifying my experience as an Engineer. Working in the machine build department I am developing the vacuum and plasma machinery for medical, aerospace, automotive and other industries coatings.
Being a new role upon writing, this section will be updated as I delve further into the role and the group.
At CATRA my primary focus was developing and building testing hardware and machines, particularly for blades and cutlery. I viewed the projects as living entities, constantly evolving and improving by pushing ideas for cost reduction, enhanced performance, and making manufacturing more efficient.
Beyond existing machines, I got to conceptualize and build bespoke testing machines from scratch. Being part of a small team granted me the incredible opportunity to be involved in every stage:
Design: Utilizing SolidWorks and other software, I bring concepts to life, adjust and improve on existing projects and craft designs for 3D printing and prototyping.
Programming: As lead programmer for many newer machines, I leverage various programming software from Ladder based systems to C+ and LabJack.
Machining and Assembly: Preparing and building full test equipment further deepens my understanding of machine building.
My electrical know-how extends to creating and implementing wiring diagrams, directly wiring machines, and programming/altering PLCs (Mitsubishi and RENU) embedded within. I'm adept at interacting with diverse analogue sensors, pneumatics, and drive systems.
The "wider" side of my role encompasses machining, assembly, maintenance, and direct customer support, including installation and commissioning. Traveling for on-site support, both within the UK and internationally, this is always a rewarding experience.
My Arnold Wragg placement offered more than just routine inspections. Working in diverse industries like aerospace, nuclear, oil & gas, I meticulously inspected parts, documented findings, and ensured seamless quality control.
Beyond simply observing, I proactively sought efficiency. Designing and releasing a new, cross-platform calibration system, I meticulously transferred data and ensured ongoing accuracy through regular calibrations, including those for specialized tools. This project solidified my commitment to precision and compliance, cornerstones of the AS9100 standard.
Moreover, I went above my inspection duties. Utilizing SolidWorks, I drafted parts and collaborated with machinists, deepening my product knowledge and fostering confidence in voicing my burgeoning expertise.
This rigorous environment sharpened my skills and prepared me for a critical event: the AS9100 standard audit. Being apart of this, an experience I actively contributed to, solidified my passion for quality craftsmanship and meticulous detail in the demanding aerospace industry.
Although not directly relevant to Engineering, I have always kept myself working - having had employment experience in the Royal Air Force as an apprentice, in the retail service in a Sports store and been apart of the 2011 census alongside variety of other employment in my teenage years - it has been important to me to always further myself wherever possible.
Images uploaded with permission of companies.