QUALIFICATIONS
- BTech (Mech) – 2017
- NQF Level 4 – Mechanical Drafting (2010) – African Academy
- Vibration Analysis Level 1 & 2 (SKF)
SOFTWARE
Mechanical CAD Software
- AutoCAD
- Fusion (Autodesk)
- Inventor (Autodesk)
- OnShape (PTC)
- SolidWorks (Dassault)
Architectural / Structure CAD Software
- SAP2000
PDM/PLM Software
- Inventor Vault (Autodesk)
Analysis Tools
- Excel (for numerical method analysis)
- Inventor Nastran (Autodesk)
- SolidWorks Simulation
Jarrod Powell
TEAM LEAD
Skills Overview
Jarrod’s expertise in mechanical engineering is grounded in a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, particularly in CAD management and engineering design. Jarrod’s career showcases his strong work ethic, exceptional decision making skills, and natural leadership ability, as seen in his effective team management and mentoring. His analytical skills, coupled with a proactive stance in project coordination and product development, makes him an indispensable asset in various engineering settings.
- MECHANICAL DESIGN & PROBLEM-SOLVING – Jarrod’s talent in mechanical design and problem solving was highlighted in his project on reverse engineering a torque limiting coupling for a damaged industrial gearbox. His meticulous approach to calculating spring constants, material friction coefficients, and working lengths, along with producing comprehensive manufacturing drawings, underlines his technical acumen and attention to detail.
- INNOVATIVE ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS – His innovative skills are evident in his design of a pneumatic change-over valve for an underground mining explosives company. This project, critical for controlling explosive emulsion discharge, showcases Jarrod’s ability to develop practical solutions for intricate industrial problems.
- CAD & ENGINEERING DESIGN TOOLS – Jarrod is adept at using various CAD and engineering design tools. His work on projects like the pneumatic valve and gearbox coupling demonstrates his proficiency in applying these tools to turn complex engineering concepts into functional designs.
- PROJECT COORDINATION & IMPLEMENTATION – Jarrod’s involvement in these projects extended beyond design to include coordination and implementation, showing his comprehensive project management capabilities. His engagement in all phases of the engineering process, from R&D to prototyping, highlights his versatility and project management skills.
- SAFETY & COMPLIANCE – In his projects, Jarrod consistently prioritises safety and adheres to industry standards. His designs focus on operational safety and efficiency, ensuring that his engineering solutions are innovative, secure, and reliable for end-users.
PERSONAL STATEMENT
I have always been fascinated about how things work and how they could be improved. With this I developed a strong passion for mechanical engineering and strived to pursue a career in the field.
I have been fortunate enough to gain diverse experience in a variety of industries, and have been able to apply my skills in mechanical design to create functional and innovative solutions to real-world problems.
I am drawn to the idea of using my knowledge and skills to make a positive impact in the world, and mechanical engineering provides countless opportunities to do just that.
I am confident that my passion and experience make me well-suited for a wide range of mechanical engineering projects and I look forward to applying my skills to help solve the problems of the future.
Project Experience

Seconded as a design engineer at Utemaster, I contributed to both the production and product development teams. My primary responsibility was creating detailed models, assemblies, and production drawings for manufacturing, with a strong focus on sheet metal design and developing new concepts to the prototype stage for review with the client.
MACHINE REDESIGN & IMPROVEMENTS
Review existing machinery and see how we can redesign components for better performance and/or ease of assembly and maintenance.
ACCESS PLATFORM DESIGN
Designed an latch on accesss platform for a structure. This platform allowed for workers to gain access to different parts of the structure for installation and maintenace purposes.

PNEUMATIC CHANGE OVER VALVE
Researched and developed a device for a company that are experts in underground mining explosives. The device required was a pneumatic operating valve (3-way) used to operate, shutoff and flush the unit. I designed and prototyped the valve on a functional underground unit which was used to direct compressed air into a cylinder to control the discharge of the explosive emulsion.

Fabrication Packages
Prepared fabrication packages, including PDF, DXFs and STEP files for laser cutting for a variety of stainless steel projects, mainly around access platforms. DKJ is a remote client so good communication skills are required for efficient and effective project delivery.

TORQUE COUPLING
Reverse engineered a torque limiting coupling on a damaged industrial gearbox. Calculations were necessary to determine required spring constants, material coefficient of friction and working lengths to transmit normal running loads. Full manufacturing drawings and documentation were carried out for technical support.

EDEN VIEW
Conceptualise and design a custom curved balustrade system for a new residential building in Auckland. The balustrades needed to be clean, futuristic looking, easy to install and meet seismic requirements while ensuring a seamless look. Full engineering, manufacturing and installation drawings were provided.

Concept & Design of Process Plant
I was seconded to conceptualise and design a process plant to manufacture a medical product. As part of my role I was required to develop detailed drawings, engage with suppliers to select the appropriate equipment and procure costings to present to the stakeholders.

PUMP FAILURE
Investigate, test and report on why two pumps configured in series kept tripping the motors and shut down. Using pump curves and fluid mechanic principles (Affinity laws) I was able to report that that the pump impellers were oversize and drawing more power than the rated motors. After trimming the impellers to the calculated diameters the pumps were returned to service and operated as needed with no motor failure.

GOOD BUGGER AWARD
August 2023
Jarrod was awarded the Good Bugger award in Hamilton for the way he stepped up on the Mainstream Engineering Ltd (MEL) project. Jarrod and his partner (who has just immigrated to NZ!) relocated to Whakatane for the project and he has put in lots of extra hours to meet tight project deadlines. The feedback from MEL has been awesome.
