Kristen Claire Gaffney

Qualified mechanical engineer with 9 years design experience, specialised in lighting/electro-mechanical systems and versatile in other fields of 3D design.

Design Engineer with 9 years’ continuous post-graduation experience. Qualified mechanical engineer having specialised in the design of lighting and electro-mechanical systems. Versatile in other fields of 3D design, especially in areas involving plastic moulded parts and assemblies.

In my first design role, I worked for a company specialising in the design and manufacture of plastic moulded parts as a CAD design engineer for 3.5 years, developing my skills using CATIA and specialising in automotive lighting design. There I developed effective methods for designing optics. This coupled with the utilisation of lighting simulation software assisted me in being able to predict the behaviour, appearance and output of lighting systems.

I worked on many new lamp projects, including for Audi, BMW, Ford USA and GM, designing various components, with a focus on lenses and light pipes. I particularly enjoy the challenge of approaching each different problem, designing and deriving effective solutions through combining the use of 3D design with mathematical formulae.

From there I went on to further my exploration of design in plastics and lighting, working for a private Adelaide lighting design company, developing larger aftermarket lamps. Here I worked in a project engineering role, diversifying my skills, in addition to design activities and becoming proficient with Solidworks software for 3D design and technical drawings.

In my most recent position, I worked for over 3 years, specifically in electromechanical systems, as the lead designer of electrical wiring accessories for the Trader brand. This developed my design skills further in mechanical design, as well as in a new area involving electrical components and connectivity, improving versatility. This role involved the use of Solidworks also and here I worked predominantly as an independent designer, with a strong focus on efficiency and attention to detail.

Versatility of working location, with a fully established home office, ABN, Solidworks 2017 software and license, all Microsoft software and engineering measurement tools.