Skaife Ward
Brisbane,Australia
Summary
Mechanical Engineer with a double degree in Mechanical Engineering and Business Marketing (Honors). Experienced in designing, manufacturing, and optimizing components and systems for race car development. Skilled in 3D CAD, CNC machining, fabrication techniques, and project management. Proven track record in cost-saving initiatives, efficiency improvements, and large project management. Innovative manufacturing engineer with background in optimizing production processes and integrating new technology to enhance efficiency. Skilled in designing and implementing cost-effective equipment modifications that improve safety and reliability. Strengths include problem-solving, project management, and collaboration across departments to achieve production goals. Previous work led to significant reductions in downtime and material waste, directly impacting operational success.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Design & Manufacturing Engineer
PACE Innovations
Yatala
11.2022 - 03.2025
- Played a key role in the design and manufacturing process of race cars, managing all stages from concept to production.
- Led project planning and concepting, producing 3D CAD designs using SolidWorks for various race car components, from suspension to chassis.
- 3 and 4-axis CNC operator, including fixturing, jigging, programming toolpaths, and tool library management.
- Utilized SolidCAM within SolidWorks for CNC programming.
- Comprehensive understanding of CNC folding, laser cutting (tube and sheet), and additive manufacturing processes.
- Designed aluminum extrusion profiles, managed production, including tooling design, and communicated with manufacturers from inquiry to delivered product.
- Developed a comprehensive understanding of material selection, surface coatings, and part design suitability for manufacturing.
- Operated the Faro arm and handheld scanners, with post-processing using Geomagic Wrap for precise reverse engineering and quality control measures.
- Managed large assembly designs and used PDM tools for version control and efficient design management.
- Introduced a new outsourcing system, reducing part costs by over 50%, and increasing access to advanced manufacturing technologies, whilst maintaining part lead times.
- Led several large car design projects, ensuring they met stringent client specifications and industry standards.
- Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to ensure timely project delivery, product quality, and cost-effectiveness.
- Design and manufacturing of rapid prototypes, utilizing in-house resources and single-use jigging.
- Led the prototyping, development, and production of advanced composite components
- Coordinated production schedules, ensuring efficient workflow and meeting tight deadlines
- Handled invoicing, quoting, and ordering materials for various projects
- Manage stock and inventory of lifetime components
- Assisted with the preparation and maintenance of GT3 and Carrera Cup cars
- Analyzed car data using tools like Pi Toolbox and Motec to improve driver and vehicle performance
Design Engineer
Lightning Composites
Arundel
01.2020 - 11.2022
- Led the prototyping, development, and production of advanced composite components.
- Coordinated production schedules, ensuring efficient workflow and meeting tight deadlines.
- Formulated plans using detailed drawings.
- Handled invoicing, quoting, and ordering materials for various projects.
- Coordinated with suppliers to select high-quality materials that met design and budget requirements.
Junior Data Engineer
Scott Taylor Motorsports
Arundel
12.2018 - 01.2020
- Managed stock and inventory of lifetime components.
- Assisted with the preparation and maintenance of GT3 and Carrera Cup cars.
- Analyzed car data using tools like Pi Toolbox and Motec.
Technician
TEKNO Autosports
Yatala
09.2016 - 12.2018
- Assist in the maintenance and chassis changes of the VF and ZB Triple 8 Race Engineering V8 Supercar chassis throughout race weekends.
- Developed a broad skill set in the different systems of V8 supercars.
- Honed communication and relationship management skills while working with multiple crew members, including drivers.
- Fabrication skills, including carbon fiber repair, TIG and MIG welding, manual lathe and vertical mill operation, and 3D printing.
Education
BACHELOR'S DEGREE - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING AND BUSINESS (MARKETING) WITH HONOURS
Griffith University
Gold Coast03.2024
CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION -
Trinity College
Beenleigh01.2018
Certificate II - AUTOMOTIVE SERVICING
TAFE College
Beenleigh01.2017
Skills
- 3D CAD design
- CNC machining and programming
- Fabrication techniques
- Project planning and management
- Manufacturing process optimization
- 3D scanning and post processing
Hobbies and Interests
- Passionate about the outdoors and rock climbing.
- Enjoy challenging personal limits and exploring mountains and alpine environments.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Design & Manufacturing Engineer
PACE Innovations
11.2022 - 03.2025
Design Engineer
Lightning Composites
01.2020 - 11.2022
Junior Data Engineer
Scott Taylor Motorsports
12.2018 - 01.2020
Technician
TEKNO Autosports
09.2016 - 12.2018
BACHELOR'S DEGREE - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING AND BUSINESS (MARKETING) WITH HONOURS
Griffith University
CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION -
Trinity College
Certificate II - AUTOMOTIVE SERVICING
TAFE College
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