Dr Russell McKee - Technical Specialist
Russell graduated from Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) in 2006 with a first class Masters degree in Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering. In 2010 he completed a PhD in Mechanical Engineering following a postgraduate research project investigating automated design optimisation of steady and unsteady fluid flow systems. During his time at QUB he gained specific experience of engine and powertrain testing & development, simulation methodologies such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) & Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and advanced data handling and presentation with MS Excel.
10 years of industrial experience with Sensata Technologies (formerly Schrader Electronics) followed. The first 4 years were dedicated to designing and developing mechanical components and assemblies for tyre pressure monitoring systems. He then transitioned to a role as a Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) Technical Specialist. Primarily this involved carrying out FEA of product load cases for global design teams, alongside research & development of polymer and elastomer material characterisation processes. He oversaw the implementation of innovative simulation tools to improve accuracy and ultimately reduce engineering design cycle time. He also worked on injection moulding analyses and supported engineers with material selection problems as well as developing MS Excel based design tools and calculators and tailored MS Access databases. He has been professionally registered as a Chartered Engineer with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers since 2014 and has an ILM Level 5 qualification in Coaching & Mentoring.
Russell initially joined Northern Regional College as a part-time Lecturer in the Engineering department while also working as a self-employed Engineering Consultant providing tailored professional services to local businesses. Now he is a full-time Engineering Technical Specialist looking forward to supporting many more companies as they strive to overcome engineering challenges or develop their existing people and processes.
At home, Russell enjoys working on the family farm, listening to music and podcasts, and playing bass guitar.