Ren Zhao

Participated in a team of 3 from research, conceptual design, project management, progress monitoring and constantly provided all aspects of guidance to on-site construction and installation.

200m³ Raw Milk Silo

Fonterra was tasked to install a new 200m³ Raw Milk Silo with a new manifold for the Takanini site. I was responsible for the design and layout of the piping work and support frame. Importing the Laser Scan factory 3D model and Solidworks Silo 3D model into Revit and ensuring that not to clash with existing pipes. By using Recap, Revit and SOLIDWORKS collaboratively, the design progress and accuracy are effectively improved.

Designed and participated in manufacturing the telescopic boom from conception to production stages. Participated in the exclusion supply of the automated sleeper laying and rail threading rail equipment, which consisted of two 15-kilometre rail tunnels being constructed under Sydney Harbour. Organised procurement with overseas manufacturers and suppliers, observed the scope, scheduled using Gantt Chart, ensured the accuracy of the project report and risk assessment to the full satisfaction of the organisation well ahead of the deadline.

Variable Retention Multipass (VRM) Freezer

Working with FSL and Caliber’s engineers to produce a larger scale VRM for a Tyson Foods chicken processing plant in Seguin & Forest (USA). This new VRM was based on a combination of previous designs. Scope of work included the reconfiguration, redesign and drafting of equipment including platform, structure, transfer conveyors, inline conveyors, and divider conveyors.

Product line layout and design

Caliber’s main role is to facilitate measurement and preparing for this new equipment to be installed, as well as designing and sizing supporting equipment to accommodate the new layout. In addition, I was tasked with completing a new & old site layout of the factor in 2D & 3D, 3D animation, and the catenary calculation report (hand calculations & FEA).

I have been heavily involved in updating, improving, and developing the different sizes of machines. I also helped in manufacturing and undertaking some hydraulic drawings.

Plant Upgrades & Process Improvements

Project Engineer at Inghams on a range of different projects involving glycol valve relocation, LN2 extract fan installation and relocation, O2 monitoring system installation, rapid door and combi door for freezer and general plant maintenance and upgrades. The projects involved developing business cases to align the projects with the business goals and engaging with a large range of internal stakeholders, external contractors, and suppliers to deliver projects on time and on budget.

Automated Nest Box & Facility Upgrade

At Onewhero, most manual nests are damaged and no longer fit for purpose, resulting in a shortage of nest boxes for upcoming bird placements. To improve efficiency, lower ongoing operational costs, and enhance health and safety, we are replacing manual nests with automated nest boxes. This upgrade will reduce manual handling risks, minimise dust exposure, and decrease labour demands. The project included:

• Automatic Nest Box Installation: Relocated and commissioned units from other sheds.

• Building Upgrades: Installed a separation wall, fire egress doors, and relocated internal columns to meet compliance requirements and improve shed layout (with necessary consents).

• Feed System Upgrades: Replaced feed and drinker lines, realigned the system layout, and relocated silos and pads to improve long-term efficiency and safety (with required consents).

• Staff Amenity Improvements: Enhanced facilities to support worker wellbeing and operational needs.

Farming & Processing Capital Projects

Project Manager for a range of projects, including $15 million in farming projects and $4 million in processing plant projects. Oversaw planning, stakeholder engagement, and delivery to ensure projects met business objectives, budgets, and timelines.

I was responsible for troubleshooting the current errors and converting the architectural drawings to 3D model, then produce the workshop drawings for fabrication. Designed an inspection hatch door for CRL Atmospheric transition based on client’s design criteria.

Working across various projects for a wide range of markets, I was tasked with communicating with clients, design from the sketch, hand calculation & FEA and create manufacturing drawings. The projects included HDPE Clamping shell, 5000L self-bounded tanks, process tanks, Hypo tanks and 30,000L plain tanks.

Designed and participated in manufacturing the Hi-Rail Vehicle. The HRV was fitted with hi-rail conversion equipment, a tail lift crane, and other accessories for operation by NZ KiwiRail. A coil-over spring system was employed to gain smoothness while traveling down the track, as well as stability when operating the Palfinger crane.

Working across various projects for a wide range of markets I was tasked with re-configuration, detailed design, and manufacturing drawings. The tasks included structure, platform, bag unloader & flexible screw conveyor.