James Laird
Onewhero
Summary
Dynamic engine builder with extensive experience at Trass Family Motorsports, excelling in precision engine assembly and testing. Proven track record in enhancing performance and mentoring junior technicians. Skilled in torque wrench usage and component inspection, ensuring top-quality results while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.
Experienced with diagnosing and repairing engine components. Utilizes advanced mechanical skills to enhance engine performance. Knowledge of precision machining and quality control techniques to ensure optimal engine functionality.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Self Employed, Engine Builder, Motorsports.
Anything Else Ltd
11.2017 - Current
- Assembled components to build high-performance engines, ensuring precision and quality standards.
- Operated machinery and tools effectively, adhering to safety protocols throughout production processes.
- Mentored junior builders, providing training on assembly techniques and best practices for engine construction.
- Conducted comprehensive inspections of completed engines, verifying component integrity and performance reliability.
- Developed and maintained detailed documentation of assembly procedures and quality checks for compliance purposes.
- Enhanced engine performance by meticulously assembling and fine-tuning components.
- Stayed current on industry trends and advancements, integrating new techniques into the engine building process when applicable.
- Assisted customers in selecting appropriate components for their specific needs, providing expert advice and guidance.
- Collaborated with engineering team to develop innovative solutions for complex engine issues.
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment, ensuring efficient workflow and safety standards were met.
Senior Technician
Trass Family Motorsports
01.2015 - 05.2016
To maintain and run 3x Ferrari race cars, two f430s and one 458 GT3 car both here in NZ and in the Australian GT3 series.
To build a new 4.8L F430 GT3 engine, from scratch. Dyno tuned and tested with success.
To set up run and pack down all race weekends and control the pit environment.
Education
No Degree - Automotive Engineering
Manurewa High School
Auckland, NZ09-1990
Skills
- Torque wrench usage
- Safety procedures
- Precision measuring
- Hand-eye coordination
- Component inspection
- Mechanical aptitude
- Engine testing
- Engine assembly
- Attention to detail
Accomplishments
1997 through 2001 Australian championship winning engines Both Group A and Group N Team Subaru, 1998 NZ winning champion winning group N 2001 2002 2003 Canadian winning group N engines, multiple winning category engines mainly boxer 4 cylinder.
Engines of note
Subaru WRC 2000 specification Nikasil liner.
Ferrari Stroker F430
Ford 408 Cu,in. Touring car engine
BMW S55.
Currently contract Number 1 mechanic for M2 competition, running the last four seasons , best results with Liam Sceats, winning both the Lady Wigram trophy, then the NZ GP.
I currently sub contract to Speed Hub Motorsports as their primary engine builder. Rally and circuit.
1997,98,99,2000 Australian rally champion ship engines both group A and N , 1998 NZ Rally champion
After completing my apprenticeship , i wanted to aim higher, i started working for Possum Bourne in 1996, from there i progressed into the engine room, and with the then new company ( link ecu) we developed a plug in ecu for our Group n program which was very successful. working for PBMS gave me the opportunity to travel and work for the company's growing customer base, from there at the end of 2001 i relocated to Melbourne Australia, from here i worked on to build on the flat four platform in both Rally and circuit.
Additional Information
Foundry man at Sika Technologies, non ferrous foundry Based in Auckland 1990 to 1992.
Primary engine builder at Possum Bourne Motorsports 1996 through 2001
Returned to NZ in 2011, worked as a general Mechanic locally, before returning to PBMS as the workshop manager before starting work at Trass Family motorsports.
Timeline
Self Employed, Engine Builder, Motorsports.
Anything Else Ltd
11.2017 - Current
Senior Technician
Trass Family Motorsports
01.2015 - 05.2016
No Degree - Automotive Engineering
Manurewa High School
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