James Van Wagnen

(248) 514-4048 – 24654 Masch Ave, Warren, MI 48091 – Jamesvanwagnen@gmail.com

www.linkedin.com/in/james-vanwagnen
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
I am a dedicated and involved engineering student who excels in programming applications, especially in vehicle dynamics and
controls. I have a passion for autonomous technology and robotics. I enjoy working in small, interdisciplinary teams.
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EDUCATION
Wayne State University GPA: 3.94 Graduation: Dec 2019
Mechanical Engineering, BS; Irvin D Reid Honors College
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SKILLS
Programming Languages: MATLAB, Python Research: Lab Techniques, Statistical Analysis, Signal Processing
Computer-Aided Design: SolidWorks, NX, AutoCAD Manufacturing: Mill, Lathe, Soldering
Finite Element Analysis: Abaqus, Altair SimLab Applications: Git, EndNote, Microsoft Office Suite, ROS
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RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE

American Axle and Manufacturing, Virtualization Co-op Fall 2018 – Present
• Programmed GUIs for test simulations in torsional fatigue and ultimate torsion
• Developed empirical formulas for stress concentrations in chamfers and hollow axles
• Used finite element analysis to evaluate failure modes of axle assemblies
• Edited material property curves used in all test procedures
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Manufacturing Intern Summer 2018
• Worked in reprocess and repair department at Warren Truck Assembly Plant
• Stratified data for top electrical losses and implemented solutions for those losses
• Connected quality, inspection, and certification data to improve quality analysis
Wayne State University, Peer Mentor & Grader Fall 2017 – Fall 2018
• Worked intro to MATLAB programming, numerical methods, and dynamics courses
• Tutored students, evaluated work, and assisted in creation of course content
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ENGINEERING PROJECTS
Engineering Honors Thesis – SLAM Robot Lawnmower Fall 2019 – Present
• Designing a robot to efficiently mow a lawn without the assistance of a boundary wire
• Utilizing an iRobot Create2 and an Intel 3D camera as a body prototype
• Developing SLAM and path planning algorithms using ROS
Capstone Design – Remote Control Snowblower Fall 2019 – Present
• Designing and fabricating a remote control snowblower to improve accessibility
Zhejiang University of Technology Global Engineering Sustainability Study Abroad Summer 2019
• Engaged with multiple engineering disciplines to analyze a global sustainability issue
• Proposed a smart container for cigarette butts to reduce litter
• Conducted innovative work within a multicultural environment in China
Exercise Adherence Monitoring Device Winter 2018
• Programmed a device that measures joint angles for physical therapy and transmits data via Bluetooth
• Designed to measure to the nearest degree and cost 1% the price of a 3-D motion capture system
Remote Urban Farming Analytics Fall 2017
• Designed a system that uses internet of things technology to control and monitor an urban farm
• Won the Wayne State STEAM Challenge
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ACTIVITIES AND HONORS

Wayne State Formula SAE – Warrior Racing Fall 2017 – Present
• Chassis Director – Overseeing frame, brakes, suspension, aerodynamics, and ergonomics systems Fall 2019 – Present
o Coordinating and assisting subsystem captains regarding design and manufacturing
o Leading dynamic DOE testing of suspension parameters to optimize lap times
• Ergonomics Captain – Designed and manufactured cockpit of the car for driver comfort Fall 2018 – Summer 2019
o Improved stiffness of seat, moment arm of clutch lever, and width of cockpit
• Brakes Member – Collaborated in a team to design braking system of the car Fall 2017 – Summer 2018
Tau Beta Pi Fall 2017 – Present