Les Gamble Email & Phone Number

Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand

Since April 2021 I have been responsible for introducing our new Electronic and Hydraulic Jet controls into Production. This has involved working with Suppliers, Design and Production teams to ensure that parts, tooling and product structures are all right-first-time. During this time, I have also been investigating an alternative packaging solution for our AVX Advanced Vessel Controls, that vastly reduces the volume of material going to landfill and reduces packaging costs by up to 75%.

Christchurch, New Zealand.

For three years I supported the introduction of new Jet models within the Small Jet, Large Jet, and Fabrication Departments. My tasks have included performing Standard Time studies to identify design and process improvements, and managing pilot-build snags through cross-functional meetings. Prior to this I was responsible for running Hamilton Jet’s Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) Chamber, designing and implementing test programs for our electronic of Jet Controls. These destructive tests enabled design and manufacturing faults to be identified and resolved, greatly reducing the frequency and cost of in-field failures. Throughout this period, I have also been supporting the manufacture of our MECs and blue ARROW control systems, from prototype. creating assembly documentation, providing onsite training for both Hamilton Jet and their suppliers, and investigating customer complaints.

Inverness, Scotland.

I managed Voith Hydro Wavegen’s wave-tank test facility, evaluating the performance of wave energy converter devices. My responsibilities included all aspects of the test programs, from conception to the analysis and presentation of results. I produced a set of standard Excel workbooks featuring Visual Basic macros which allowed any user to perform standard analyses. Tasked with improving the systems, I implemented the automation of the wavemaker and data acquisition systems, a development which allowed unmanned 24-hour testing and lead to a significant improvement in the repeatability of test results.As Senior Engineer I developed an analytical technique to predict the potential electrical output of wave energy converter devices for any given coastal location. This development greatly reduced the lead-time for reporting to clients and removed the need for months of expensive scale model testing.

Aviemore, Scotland.

For two summers during my BSc Mechanical Engineering course, I was employed to update component design files to ensure compliance with international standards (ISO 9001). This involved performing stress calculations for hydraulic fluid connectors and developing the use of a specialised software package and training other members of staff in its use.

Belmont Lane, Glasgow, Scotland.

The Coach House Trust provides educational and occupational opportunities to people with learning disabilities. I established a metal-workshop and taught basic metal working and mechanical maintenance skills. I carried out all plant and machinery repairs, set up a routine maintenance system. I fabricated bespoke furniture and wrought iron products for sale. I also designed and built basic items of plant for use within the trust.

Glasgow, Scotland.

I carried out general blacksmith work and fabricated bespoke furniture, traditional Scottish replica swords and fight re-enactment weapons. During this time I became competent at MiG Welding, Arc welding (mild steel, stainless steel and cast) and basic turning and milling processes.

Glasgow, Scotland.

West Crowns Contracting is the sole UK agent for the German made Reglit architectural glazing system. From initial client contact to invoice, I was responsible for all aspects of glazing contracts throughout UK. This included all materials purchasing and controlling stock which had lead times of up to six months. I was also responsible for 10 staff members, their wages, expenses, accommodation, and vehicle logistics.

Bachelor Of Science (Bsc), Mechanical Engineering

2Nd Year Bsc Mechanical Engineering

High School