Mechanical Engineering Student · SJSU · Dec 2026
Winston
Bird
I design, build, and analyze mechanical systems — from battery modules for electric race cars to SCADA-based energy analysis at the Department of Energy. Currently studying at San Jose State University with a Manufacturing Technology minor.
About
I'm a mechanical engineering student at San Jose State University, graduating December 2026, with a minor in Manufacturing Technology. I work at the intersection of energy systems, precision manufacturing, and electromechanical design.
My background spans industrial energy assessment at the U.S. Department of Energy, high-performance battery module design for Formula SAE Electric, and hands-on machining and fabrication. I'm passionate about applying engineering fundamentals to real-world efficiency and sustainability challenges.
Outside academics I mentor FIRST Robotics Team 581, where I've guided students in assembly, manufacturing, and CAD — and helped the team win two competitions and qualify for the World Championships.
Experience
- Performed SCADA-based end-use energy analysis at a municipal water treatment plant, identifying 108,445 kWh in potential annual savings and over $48,000 in cost reductions.
- Implemented efficiency upgrades including solar integration and variable frequency drives (VFDs), projecting a reduction of 5,500+ lbs of CO₂ annually.
- Evaluated mechanical systems including HVAC, compressors, and process equipment to recommend improvements and reduce waste.
- Conducted onsite assessments at industrial facilities, collaborating with plant personnel to gather data on mechanical systems and operational processes.
- Designed and assembled 50V battery modules using pouch and cylindrical cells, engineered to 22.4Ah capacity and 400V linked voltage.
- Addressed thermal management with aluminum nitride heat sinks and pre-cooling techniques, reducing starting temperatures by 17°C.
- Conducted cell testing using CBA battery testers, performing discharge curve tests to evaluate performance and efficiency.
- Ensured strict compliance with a 300-page technical rulebook meeting all safety, performance, and regulatory requirements.
- Designed and fabricated an accumulator transport cart with a Deadman brake system for safe use at the Michigan Speedway competition.
- TIG welded cart frame, sourcing raw materials from McMaster-Carr and overseeing fabrication to meet safety and performance standards.
- Contributed to mechanical design, creating custom brackets for various sensors and system components on the vehicle.
Projects
Oscillating Cylinder Steam Engine
↗Machined billet components from steel, brass, and aluminum using manual mills and lathes, achieving a tolerance of ±0.002 inches. Fabricated and assembled a brass flywheel, crankshaft, cylinder head with intake and exhaust ports, and a precision-fitted piston. Validated engine functionality operating on 7 PSI compressed air with smooth oscillation and minimal leakage.
400V Formula SAE Battery Pack
↗Engineered battery modules with a 22.4Ah capacity and 400V linked voltage, optimizing energy density and system efficiency. Optimized cell configuration to integrate 96 additional cells within the previous year's footprint and solved thermal management challenges using aluminum nitride heat sinks. Team finished 5th Overall at Formula SAE Electric (US) in 2024.
End-Use Energy Analysis · Water Treatment Plant
↗Conducted SCADA-based energy analysis of a municipal water treatment plant, identifying 108,445 kWh in potential annual energy savings and over $48,000 in cost reductions. Proposed efficiency upgrades including solar integration and VFDs, projecting a 5,500+ lb annual reduction in CO₂ emissions.
Accumulator Transport Cart — Deadman Brake System
↗Designed and fabricated a transport cart for the high-voltage accumulator pack, featuring a Deadman brake system for safe, controlled movement at the Michigan Speedway competition. TIG welded the frame and sourced all raw materials from McMaster-Carr.
Honors
Contact
Open to internships, co-ops, and interesting engineering projects. I reply quickly — feel free to reach out.