Personal Projects
1984 Maserati BiTurbo
The Maserati Biturbo has a reputation that precedes it – complex, challenging, and undeniably Italian. Taking on this project meant diving deep into its intricate systems. Far beyond a simple restoration, this involved a complete mechanical overhaul: rebuilding the engine, transmission, and differential. Critical electrical systems were rewired to ensure reliability, and addressing parts scarcity even required reverse-engineering and reproducing obsolete transmission components. Finishing included meticulous paint correction. It was a true test of patience and skill, but bringing this fascinating piece of '80s performance engineering back to life, system by system, has been incredibly rewarding.
2003 Mercedes-Kleemann ML50K6
Working on this 2003 Kleemann ML50K6 has been a deep dive into the world of specialized European tuning. It’s an incredibly rare machine (1 of 27 W163s modified by Kleemann DK), and its character is defined by the unique engine under the hood – based on the Mercedes M113K/M155 Kompressor family, akin to the McLaren SLR's powerplant. The restoration journey was comprehensive: I rebuilt the transmission and its valve body, overhauled the entire front end and brake system, and performed major bodywork. I also had the rewarding challenge of designing and manufacturing several custom parts essential to completing the project correctly. It's been a fantastic experience applying engineering skills to preserve and restore such a potent and unique piece of automotive history.
2008 Mercedes Unimog
This project involved a 2008 Mercedes Unimog with an extraordinary provenance. Manufactured in Wörth am Rhein, Germany, its journey traced through Cairo to Tripoli, Libya. According to its history, the vehicle was instrumental during the Fall of Tripoli and was previously in the possession of an advisor to the ground forces before briefly coming into my care. During the short duration I had it, my focus was on essential mechanical refurbishment and preservation. This included a full fluid service, rebuilding the turbocharger, and overhauling the critical fuel injection system. I also initiated the early stages of a planned camper conversion. Although the vehicle was subsequently returned and its current whereabouts are unknown, it was a unique opportunity to apply technical skills to a machine with such a significant global history.
UBC Solar Decathlon
Played key leadership roles on the highly successful joint UBC Okanagan / Thompson Rivers University team competing in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon Design Challenge, contributing significantly to back-to-back 2nd place national finishes. In the 2023 competition, as Mechanical Team Co-Lead, I helped guide the design, selection, and integration of the building's HVAC, plumbing, and related mechanical systems, focusing on achieving high efficiency, occupant comfort, and sustainability goals. Building on that success, for the 2024 challenge, I stepped up as the Energy Modelling Lead. In this role, I directed the team's energy simulation efforts using OpenStudio, analyzed building performance, identified optimization strategies, and ensured the design met rigorous zero-energy targets. This multi-year involvement provided deep experience in sustainable building design, advanced mechanical systems, energy analysis, interdisciplinary leadership, and collaborative project execution.
