Jim Wiles - P.Eng

Experience

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  Kobay Enstel Automotive Inc.

  Apr 2007 - Aug 2007

  Engineering Student

  • Organize and log equipment and dies moved from previous location to new location after plant move.• Assist lead engineer in determining placement of stamping units, welding units and other assembly and machining centers. • Write operator instructions and procedural pamphlets for new and reworked welding and assembly machines.• Trouble shoot malfunctioning machines and systems to ensure parts were made to within specification• Supervise and record data from first runs for new and reworked machines and dies as well as for dies moved and set up in new shop. • Learned systems and techniques for manufacturing by progressive and operator loaded stamping processes• Learned systems and procedures for robotic MIG welding and projection electrode welding• Troubleshot and was able to fix several station issues as they arose with in the plant move and with new equipment Show less

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  Q2, Quality Consultants

  Jan 2008 - May 2008

  Group Lead

  • Set up and start sorting tasks of suspect parts that had been produced• Train teams on days tasks, sorting procedures and what to look for with in suspect parts • Oversee issues with parts and/or sorting problems and assessed acceptable variance in defects• Supervise team and troubleshot any issues that may arise amongst team members• Troubleshot root cause quality issues with manufacturing systems and devices. • Run tests on manufacturing equipment to find the root cause of the defects and optimize performance and efficiency• Keep detailed records of quarantined parts, check sheets, test and investigation results and training records for each job• Communicate with superiors and customer at start and end of shift with starting and finishing details and any issues present at the time• Experienced several different manufacturing and designing situations including; stamping, clean room medical product manufacturing, clean room electronics manufacturing, and CNC fully automated manufacturing• Trouble shot and found permanent solutions to all quality and safety issues encountered.• Extended leadership experience to manufacturing and quality engineer situations. Show less

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  Versatech Industries Ltd.

  Apr 2008 - Aug 2008

  CAD Designer

  • Convert rough hand drawings into 3D CAD models to simulate properties and create production programs for CNC machines• Redesigned existing part samples to new specifications using 3D CAD software• Meet with customers and superiors to create and fabricate new prototypes and samples for product testing before production• Select proper materials for prototype applications to ensure best performance based on product uses• Design products from scratch based on customer requirements making several different permutations to give the customer a visual representation of different options• Successfully self-taught the use SolidWorks and Mastercam to a useful level within 2 weeks of starting• Developed several new designs for items made from a variety of materials such as; plastic, foam, steel and woven aluminum. Show less

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  Modatek Systems

  Sept 2008 - Dec 2008

  Engineering Student

  • Analyzed down time studies and production reports daily to determine and re-design bottle necks and assess repeating machinery issues• Created and updated man vs. machine charts for assembly lines to assess bottle necks, as well as developed FMEA documents and operator instructions for changes to work stations• Supervised contractors on assorted tasks within the plant to ensure their safety, and to ensure jobs were being completed to the required specification• Assisted engineering team with lean manufacturing projects, such as performing cost feasibility analysis to reducing waste caused by parts being used in machine start up tests• Attended weekly meetings to outline actions taken and issues that needed to be addressed and solved• Gained experience in large scale manufacturing and troubleshooting procedures• Gained experience in ergonomics and assembly line systems and analysis• Was introduced to six sigma theories and techniques and how to relate them to large scale manufacturing Show less

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  Liquiforce Services Ltd.

  May 2011 - May 2012

  CAD Designer / engineering Student

  • Disassembled and cataloged each component of equipment used by Liquiforce Services• Analyzed components for durability and safe operation using SolidWorks CAE simulation• Standardized equipment used to increase efficiency in the repair of equipment• Created ergonomic work instructions for processes used to make repairs on the equipment for sewer and water systems in the field and in the repair shop.• Used CAD software to create standard drawings of components used in equipment and systems• Created wiring schematics for electrical components• Created web based filing system for easy access of standard documents to all employees• Assisted in troubleshooting malfunctioning systems and equipment in the shop and in the field, and assisted in optimizing equipment for specific tasks• Finished catalogue of new standard parts of all 10 current systems accompanied with 150-250 parts each with detailed assembly and part drawings for crews in the field to access for quick repairs over 8 month co-op term Show less

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  SAE Aero Design - University of Windsor competition

  Sept 2012 - Aug 2013

  Manufacturing Engineer

  • Design and build a radio-controlled aircraft capable of carrying a load of weights while minimizing the weight of the aircraft• Take conceptual drawings from the program XFLR and make 3D virtual parts that are able to be manufactured using SolidWorks CAD software• Devise a manufacturing process plan for building the aircraft• Create a full assembly of the aircraft using SolidWorks to simulate strength and process of assembly• Manufacture parts of the aircraft using CNC while using hand tools for less complex parts• Assemble and test aircraft to ensure congruency with tests done using SolidWorks• Troubleshoot building issues as they arise, and perform in-field repairs with on-hand equipment as needed• Competition performance the aircraft took off successfully with 25 pound payload in 210ft rolling distance.• Learned the intricate details of sustainable flight and flight dynamics quickly• Was able to design and build a functioning aircraft out of wood within 6 months• Achieved overall performance mark of A for the project Show less

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  Wiles Custom Engineering

  Apr 2013 - Jun 2015

  Biodiesel refinement center designer

  • Research proper techniques for making and using biodiesel made from used vegetable oil or corn meal.• Research current standards for petroleum diesel as benchmark standard for testing and manufacturing of biodiesel• Design fully enclosed and automated mixing and washing system to ensure repeatable production of biodiesel using sensors and actuators.• Manufacture and assemble system and test to ensure feasibility of target.• Change over test vehicle to accept physical properties of biodiesel as opposed to petroleum diesel. • Learned the in depth physical properties of diesel and biodiesel fuels as well as the physical properties of gasoline and biogasoline• Learned the commercial refinement techniques and standards for petroleum diesel and gasoline as benchmarks for biodiesel and biogasoline• Successfully ran test vehicle on 50% biodiesel with no discernible difference in performance or drivability over 6 month period. Show less

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  A.W. Hooker Associates Ltd.

  Sept 2013 - Dec 2013

  Cost Analyst

  • Assess quantity of systems and assemblies to be installed to a given building or system• Generate cost estimates for building projects based on quantities of systems, accepted market value and quoted prices.• Gain quotes for equipment and parts from recognized suppliers to complete accurate cost analysis for estimates.• Use thermodynamic and flow theories to analyze proposed designs for buildings and systems to ensure heating, HVAC and plumbing equipment is sized efficiently for the designed task and space.• Made suggestions to engineers to ensure safety and efficiency in designs of building systems • Analyze designs of building system installations to reduce costs to the client in the long run • Write reports comparing differences in quoted prices and different stages of design estimating as the project progresses • Learned basic cost analysis techniques and how to estimate a system or job effectively• Learned sizing and designing procedures for HVAC systems and plumbing systems in a practical environment Show less

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  Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA)

  Apr 2014 - Nov 2016

  Initially hired as a quality engineer and was quickly promoted to lead Testing engineer as a result of quality performance in testing and facilitating product improvements. Entrusted to manage a team of 9 on two shifts to improve operations and resolution of technical problems within the CTVV lab and all other quality departments. Coordinated daily testing activities, root case issues and audits with tested vehicles to improve their function and build quality.- Promoted continuous improvement in preventative testing, and boosted cohesion and productivity by developing training for the entire CTVV lab functioning within FCA (developed 110 of 195 tests); adapted tests for different vehicles and their unique features and created detailed documents for all required parties. - Established and operated the new CTVV lab 2 months ahead of schedule; coordinated building, furnishing and testing of lab within the first month of employment. - Demonstrated superb troubleshooting and quality improvement skills by exercising focus and thoroughness in testing vehicles and tracking issue resolution through design or process changes - Developed new test programs and testing strategies based on issues found in warranty reports, JD power and in plant issues. For example, developed a test to support the HVAC engineering team in measuring airflow speed and noise within a vehicle. - Contributed to resolving over 100 vehicle quality issues to ensure both special cause and systemic issues do not escape plant control. - Managed an extended team in successfully launching new Chrysler Pacifica while adhering to a strict deadlines.- Created streamlined issue tracking and alert system for vehicle quality system- Completed all testing, root cause analysis and resolution implementation during pilot, preproduction and initial release phase. Show less Served as quality engineer for Town and Country, Caravan, Compass & Patriot models, and liaised between multiple departments to effectively translate information to teams regarding issues and quality improvements for each part of the vehicle. Assembled and managed cross functional teams to solve complex vehicle issues.Key contributions:- Issued, tracked and reported on status of vehicle quality issues (ECIMS) for solving vehicle and design issues permanently—tracking historical trends to prevent habitual deficiencies. - utilized databases of vehicle complaints such as JD power and car and driver complaints to create action lists of systemic issues and prioritize correction based on severity and frequency of issues. - Instrumental in reducing the warranty of minivan and small SUV to below target through perseverance in prioritizing and resolving issues - Additionally contributed to improving JD power overall score for Minivan and Small SUV. -Created test programs to identify and confirm vehicle issues present within available area. - conferred and liaised with local dealer service departments to identify vehicles with specific issues and develop test program for root cause analysis. - Conducted field evaluations of sample size small SUV and minivan groups in different regions. - Conducted thermal maximum use testing on Minivans and small SUV's to ensure operation in top and bottom 2% of climate situations (extreme hot and extreme cold) - Resolved 15 systemic quality issues on Small SUV before being promoted to CTVV lead engineer - Resolved 18 systemic quality issues on Minivan before being promoted to CTVV lead engineer - Coordinated fleet of 15 fast feed back vehicles for each the small SUV segment and the minivan segment Show less

  • CTVV Lead Engineer

    Jun 2015 - Nov 2016

  • Quality Engineer

    Apr 2014 - Jun 2015
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  Synaptive Medical

  Nov 2016 - Dec 2020

  Senior System Test Engineer

  Played a pivotal role in ensuring the quality, safety, and compliance of innovative medical technology while serving as a System Test Engineer specializing in the hardware aspects of the Modus V surgical robotic system at Synaptive Medical. Optimized the development of comprehensive testing procedures, ensured adherence to industry standards and regulations, and actively participated in design enhancements and product launches.- Developed over 100 testing procedures for mechanical, optical, electrical, and robotic components of the Modus V surgical robotic system; covering wide range of scenarios, from standard operating conditions to extreme environments.- Ensured strict adherence to industry and government standards, including IEC 60601-1-1, IEC 60601-1-2, ISTA 2B, and ISO 13485. Conducted thorough testing of designs to verify compliance with regulations, contributing to system's reliability.- Designed and developed more than 20 custom testing tooling systems and fixtures to facilitate specialized testing. An example includes a custom tensile testing system, which assessed strength and deflection of surgical robotic system.- Implemented automation systems that allowed for life cycle testing of hardware components, involving hundreds of cycles to simulate wear. - Employed DFMEA-style risk assessments to identify likely failure points in designs, thereby highlighting design flaws and need for specialized testing on both system and component levels.- Conducted component and system-level testing to evaluate functionality and safety of robotics systems, optical systems, electrical power and overall system software.- Sourced, managed, and collaborated with third-party testing and design houses for external assessments ensuring robust product validation.- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, led design reviews, and provided presentations on the Modus V robotic system's functionality and performance, fostering effective communication and alignment. Show less

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  MDA

  Jan 2020 - Jul 2024

  Mechanical Engineer

  Employs expertise in hardware and robotic aspects of Bruce Reactor Inspection and Maintenance System (BRIMS) at MDA's Nuclear Department. Oversee execution of projects and initiatives related to nuclear reactor inspection and maintenance. Lead kinematic analysis of robotic systems using vision-based tracking and analysis equipment. Provide training to team members, promoting consistent skill development and application. Develop and manage scheduling systems using Visio and MS Project, enabling precise tracking of project progress. Manage resources, including specialized skills like precision machining and personnel with specialized training, to ensure tasks meet customer delivery dates.- Spearheaded planning, development, and execution of more than 25 iterative and commissioning projects, aimed at enhancing production robotic systems and mechanical reactor systems.- Proficiently conducted Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and risk assessments for existing and proposed designs. - Developed improvement plans to enhance system reliability and safety; based on identified deficiencies and FMEA findings.- Reduced critical path issues by approximately 30%, streamlined project timelines, and improved overall project efficiency.- Led cross-functional teams of 3-6 engineers and technicians in concept and detailed design development; ensured seamless collaboration and execution of design projects from initial sketches to integrated components.- Steered creation of 30+ mechanical and electro-mechanical fixtures and systems, enhancing capabilities of BRIMS system.- Conducted more than 50 troubleshooting investigations for complex mechanical and electro-mechanical systems, developing action plans to mitigate and correct issues efficiently. - Decreased critical path issues by approximately 35% via development and execution of more than 50 testing and analysis sequences, enabling early issue identification and resolution. Show less

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  Calian Advanced Technologies

  Feb 2024 - now

  Senior Mechanical Project Engineer/ Sr. Analyst.