Additive manufacturing (AM) has become very popular and useful within the last few years due in part to the inherent ability of AM being lower in cost when producing intricate parts on a small scale when compared to traditional manufacturing techniques. Also, for the ability to produce versatile parts without the cost associated with retrofitting/redesigning the equipment. Laser engineered net shaping (LENS) is a directed energy deposition (DED) AM technique in where neat metal/ceramic/metal-ceramic feed-stock powders are carried into a controlled environment chamber and introduced into a melt pool on a substrate (build) metal. The melt pool is produced via high power focused laser. My current research involves using LENS to produce ceramic-reinforced metal matrix composites (MMC). MMCs are then examined by mechanical characterization, oxidation and corrosion behavior, biocompatibility, bio-tribocorrosion, and electroanalytical analysis. Description of tests:Tribological analysis is performed to determining the running-in wear regime, wear rate, COF and wear modes present.Thermal analysis is conducted by measurement of thermal diffusion and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). By TGA oxidation rates and oxidation kinetic is determined by modeling with traditional oxidation models (oxidation laws). Electroanalytical methods are used for corrosion characterization, this is done with the use of a potentiostat and electrochemical cell. Attained from electroanalytical methods is open-circuit potential (equilibrium potential), corrosion current and potential, and passivization region. Biocompatibility is determined by in vivo studies and subsequent characterization of harvested hard tissue. The overall goal focuses on increasing wear resistance, oxidation, and corrosion resistance as well as improving on the biocompatibility of titanium and its alloys. Possible fields that could benefit from such research are aerospace, automotive and biomedical fields.

Automotive repair has become a hobby. In general, diagnosing and fixing all-around auto repairs i.e. mechanical, electrical, emission and intermittent issues is within my comprehension and ability to address. Reading repair manuals, diagrams, schematics, and flow charts are within the realm of the work.

As a club, the objective is to build a 1/3 scale formula-style open-cockpit race car for a national competition in Michigan every year. As a member of the composites sub-team, our duties consisted of designing and building the body, intake manifold, impact attenuator and possibly any other parts that allowed for weight reduction while maintaining structural integrity and without decreasing performance of the car. I was directly and personally responsible for the design and build of the carbon fiber driver seat. Seat requirements were: 1) fit within the cockpit, 2) sit at least 1” away from the bulk-head/firewall, 3) allow for the implementation of a 5-point harness, 4) allow for 5-point frame mounting, 5) driver friendly (ergonomic) and 6) fire-retardant.

Program Title: UW Hooked on PhotonicsResearch: Synthesizing Nonlinear Optical MaterialsMaterials were synthesized that would exhibit an increased r33 value, which is an increased electro-optic coefficient. This coefficient is based on the change in optical properties with an applied electric field. These materials are used in digital-to-optical data conversion in a Mach Zehnder modulator. Improved materials can increase the speed of data transfer, thereby, increasing bandwidth at decreased power input.

Tutored in the subjects of General and Organic Chemistry, Calculus and Physics.

Program Title: NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) in Introduction to Multi-scale EngineeringResearch: Modeling Liquid Electrolytes for Li-ion batteries.Responsibilities: Conduct literature research to select two electrolytes for simulation. Atomic environmental parameters for each electrolyte where determined and modeling was done via molecular dynamic software (GROMACS). Simulations were ran using Visual Molecular Dynamics (VMD). Objectives were to test and assure the benefits of alternative electrolytes for use in Li-ion batteries. Alternative electrolytes were chosen based reducing volatility and viscosity, and improving ionic conductivity.

Title: Entry Level TechnicianResponsibilities: - Troubleshooting, diagnoses and repair of vehicles.- Maintain GM credentials through GM Tech Training.- Follow warranty protocol when applicable.- Perform 32-point inspections and all vehicles entering shop.