Liam Spoel

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Skills Overview

Liam is a dynamic Mechanical Engineer and innovative problem-solver with expertise in designing robust systems for extreme environments, including a spacecraft payload launched via SpaceX’s Falcon 9.

Adept at rapid R&D execution, he combines methodical analysis with hands-on proficiency in 3D modelling, FEA simulations, and advanced manufacturing (CNC, additive manufacturing). A collaborative leader, he coordinates cross-departmental teams to implement quality-driven processes, ensuring designs balance innovative solutions with practical manufacturing and assembly considerations (DFM/DFA).

He delivers high-impact solutions to complex technical challenges, driven by a passion for optimisation and a focus on merging technical precision with strategic execution.

• RAPID R&D + PROTOTYPING – Liam excels in fast-paced, iterative environments, combining hands-on prototyping with analytical problem solving. At Zenno Astronautics, he led the rapid design and testing of mechanical systems for superconducting magnets in space, delivering functional prototypes within tight deadlines using 3D printing, CNC machining, and manual fabrication. This included the development of a novel suspension system using Kevlar string to thermally isolate the magnets while fully constraining them in six degrees of freedom.

• CAD & SIMULATION – Proficient in SolidWorks and ANSYS Mechanical, Liam balances precision with practicality. He has designed and validated systems for extreme environments, such as rocket launch loads, guiding critical decisions on materials and mounting configurations. At Zenno Astronautics, he embedded DFM/DFA principles directly into models, reducing rework. At Price Holyoake, he used Solidworks VBA to automate plenum box part, drawing, and CNC toolpath creation, saving 30+ hours a week of engineering design work during busy periods.

• PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT – Liam drives user-centric solutions from concept to commercialisation. At Price Holyoake, he helped develop a ceiling-mounted air purification unit for the Australasian market, overseeing mechanical design, flowrate and acoustic testing, compliance labeling, and customer facing documentation. By engaging directly with clients and fabricators, he translated vague requirements into a product optimised for manufacturability and assembly. His detailed assembly instructions enabled smooth handovers to production teams, in doing so, balancing innovation with real-world usability.

• DESIGN FOR FABRICATION – With a workshop-first mindset, Liam designs for manufacturability. At Zenno Astronautics, he standardised drawing templates and part libraries in SolidWorks PDM to consolidate design and drafting efforts. His hands-on machining experience with manual milling/turning and 3-axis CNC operation informs pragmatic tolerancing and modular design. This is combined with his proficiency in engineering drafting, specifically geometrical tolerancing with ISO GPS, ensuring design intent is clearly communicated with no chance of misinterpretation. He is able to verify that incoming parts adhere to what is specified in engineering drawings through collaboration with vendors, as well as employing a metrology-driven QC process. 

• SYSTEMS ENGINEERING & RISK MANAGEMENT – Liam specialises in translating high-level project goals into actionable technical requirements while identifying and mitigating risks. At Zenno Astronautics, he defined subsystem requirements and verification plans for a spacecraft payload, aligning with ECSS and NASA standards. For superconducting magnet systems, he identified critical risks, such as thermal expansion mismatches, and validated solutions through structured testing (e.g. vibration tests ensuring survival of SpaceX Falcon 9 launch loads). His collaborative approach bridges stakeholder needs; by working with thermal, electrical, and manufacturing teams, he ensured requirements balanced performance with feasibility.

• CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION – A natural bridge between disciplines, Liam coordinates seamlessly with teams. At Zenno Astronautics, he resolved spatial conflicts between PCBs, wiring looms, and thermal systems through “design syncs” with other engineers. His proactive communication, translating mechanical constraints into actionable feedback, prevented late stage redesigns, while his ability to distil technical jargon helped align stakeholders with project goals.

Project Experience