There are a number of projects that immediately jump to mind, however at the top of my list has to be advancing our clutch-by-wire actuator. Using an innovative design approach, we created an actuator unlike any of its predecessors.
Having joined AP Racing in 2021, after completing placement year, Shaun now works as a mechatronics design engineer – but what does this entail? In a quickfire round of questions, we asked Shaun about his career to date and why he chose to work at AP.
Q: Can you tell us about your current role at AP?
A: I work as a mechatronics design engineer, which means that I’m responsible for the mechanical design behind our mechatronics projects. For anyone who might not know, mechatronics unites the principles of mechanics, electricals, electronics and computing to design sophisticated and intelligent systems and robotics.
Q: So, what do your day-to-day activities look like?
A: Generally, my time is spent designing and drawing components, but it can also include performing an analysis of systems. That being said, my role has a need for flexibility. The nature of our work means that my priorities can be extremely varied and require me to switch between projects frequently.
Q: What’s the most exciting thing about your role?
A: For me, the most exciting part is being able to design mechanical systems from scratch, continuing to develop them through testing and validation. It enables me to have the freedom to grow new ideas for components and see them come to fruition.
Q: Going back to the beginning of your time at AP Racing, how did you come to be in your role?
A: I initially started with AP Racing through a placement year as part of my engineering degree. Upon completion, I was offered a full-time position after graduation and here I am two and a half years later!
2
Years at AP Racing
Q: What do you like most about working at AP?
A: For me, it’s the flexibility that comes with my role. The variety within our projects allows me to really tap into my creativity to design and explore different systems to achieve the goals set.
Q: What motivates you at work?
A: Definitely the projects. My role sees me work across the entire AP Racing customer base – be that race, road or special projects.
Q: If you could give one piece of advice to those looking to start in the industry, what would it be?
A: While I might be biased, I’d say that the best in route into this industry is through an engineering degree and trying to gain as much industry experience as possible. Whether through a placement year during your studies, or independent experience, more and more roles are looking for hands-on experience alongside an educational background.
Q: Outside of work, what are your interest?
A: I have a number of hobbies and interests, including playing the guitar. I also enjoy spending time outdoors, especially hiking and travelling, be that in the UK or abroad.
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