Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

April Bray

Balwyn North,VIC

Summary

Innovative mechanical design engineer with biomedical qualifications and a proven track record at Esper Satellite Imagery, leading Australia's first hyperspectral imager project from inception to orbit. Advanced skills in CAD and prototype development, informed by exceptional creative artistry, problem-solving abilities, and lateral thinking. Diverse experience with engineering skills and manufacturing technologies, gained in both personal and professional life, uniquely complemented by creativity, an aptitude for learning, and attention to detail. Incredibly excited to apply unique skill set to medical industry and explore the intersection of personalised medicine and technology. Highly motivated by continuous professional development, never backs down from a challenge, takes pride in producing high-quality work, and hones new skills at any opportunity.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Esper Satellite Imagery
11.2021 - Current
  • Managed and led the hardware team in development of Australia's first hyperspectral imager and subsequent projects for Low Earth Orbit from concept to launch, reporting to the Chief Technical Officer
  • Designed innovative mechanical components, assemblies and systems using 3D NX and SolidWorks CAD software to meet optomechanical, thermal, and structural performance specifications and technical requirements for launch and operation in space
  • Managed budgets efficiently while maintaining adherence to project timelines through effective resource allocation.
  • Created detailed engineering drawings for machined components using NX and SolidWorks CAD software
  • Designed and fabricated mechanical components for prototype development and research purposes using SLA and filament 3D-printing technologies and basic hand fabrication skills
  • Fostered and maintained local and international supplier relationships for design, production, and systems integration of high-precision custom mechanical components and assemblies
  • Designed test control apparatus and equipment and developed procedures for testing of prototypes and flight models
  • Recommended, installed, operated, and maintained rapid prototyping workshop equipment including SLA and filament 3D printers
  • Developed and implemented project plans and schedules, ensuring timely and efficient project delivery
  • Directed and conducted installation, testing, operation, maintenance, and repair of facilities and equipment

Engineering Teaching Associate

Monash University
03.2020 - 11.2024
  • Taught multiple Engineering undergraduate-level courses including Engineering Design at first-, second-, third-, and fourth-year levels
  • Created and delivered teaching material on the use of SolidWorks 3D CAD software and simulation package for mechanical design
  • Mentored students on the use of ANSYS simulation software for Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics, including both fluid and structural thermal analysis
  • Tutored students on the use of Fusion 360 for CAM
  • Assisted students in learning and practicing design principles for manufacture, supported with available technologies including laser-cutting, 3D printing, basic metal fabrication, vacuum forming, and 3- and 5-axis CNC machining

Workshop Supervisor

Monash University
03.2020 - 11.2024
  • Operated and maintained facilities and equipment including laser-cutters, 3D printers (SLA, filament, and SLS), sewing machines, spray booth, woodwork shop, vacuum formers, and shared power and hand tools
  • Provided engineering design and manufacturing advice to students to support their coursework and extracurricular projects such as the Warman robotics competition and the Monash Motorsport Formula SAE team
  • Mentored and trained student and senior users of tools and machinery while ensuring adherence to safety protocols
  • Provided guidance to students in developing their practical skills through hands-on learning opportunities
  • Encouraged creativity and problem solving among participants by introducing innovative teaching methods
  • Represented the university by participating in community, state, and national events and meetings and by developing partnerships with industry and secondary education institutions

Aerodynamics Engineer

Monash Motorsport Formula SAE Team
01.2019 - 01.2022
  • Conducted research and testing of composite material manufacturing methods for all vehicle aerodynamic components, including aerodynamic surfaces and internal structures
  • Developed and tested aerodynamic components using advanced computer simulations
  • Developed and implemented physical testing procedures and fixtures for real-world validation of CFD simulation results both on-track and in the Monash Wind Tunnel, performing detailed data analysis to support design reasoning and inform future development
  • Managed team subsection dedicated to composites manufacturing, coordinating the cross-department production of chassis and aerodynamic components within strict timeline and budget constraints
  • Designed livery and other media in accordance with University branding guidelines and the established design language of the Monash Motorsport team
  • Implemented innovative tooling design and manufacturing strategies to facilitate accurate production of increasingly complex aerodynamic surfaces

Education

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours) -

Monash University
Clayton, VIC
05-2025

Bachelor of Biomedical Science -

Monash University
Clayton, VIC
05-2025

Skills

  • 3D printing technologies
  • Design for manufacturing
  • Computer-aided design
  • Prototype development
  • Technical drawing
  • Creativity and artistic aptitude
  • Lateral thinking
  • Complex problem-solving
  • Leadership and communication
  • Industrial design

Certification

  • Certificate IV in Engineering (Chisholm Institute short course, 2019)
  • Auslan level 1 (Auslan Australia, 2022)

Timeline

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Esper Satellite Imagery
11.2021 - Current

Engineering Teaching Associate

Monash University
03.2020 - 11.2024

Workshop Supervisor

Monash University
03.2020 - 11.2024

Aerodynamics Engineer

Monash Motorsport Formula SAE Team
01.2019 - 01.2022

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours) -

Monash University

Bachelor of Biomedical Science -

Monash University
April Bray