RAFAEL CASAS JR.
**** ****** **. *** #*** Capitol Heights, MD 20743 ******.*******@*****.*** Cell: 915-***-****
www.rafaelcasas.com
I am seeking a position that will utilize experiential expertise in designing, developing, assessing and
evaluating mechanical systems for engineering research . As a Mechanical Engineer, I have acquired a diverse
background in project management, analytical skills and organizational integration/fusion. I spent this past
year as an intern and contract researcher, where I had the opportunity to bring my diversity to bear while my
analytical and systems design skills were essential to project development, as well as customer relations.
EDUCATION New Mexico State University
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering – May 2012
Areas of Concentration: Materials Science, Bioengineering (GPA: 3.63)
Research Focus: Cross-Properties of Cortical Bone
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering – May 2010
Minor in Mathematics – Matrix Algebra / Differential Equations
Research Focus: Medical Patient Transfer and Energy Efficiency 2009 - 2010
Dean’s List at New Mexico State University – Fall 2009
Languages: Fluency in English and Spanish
EXPERIENTIAL EXPERIENCE
Research Associate & Marketing Director (BioMat Sciences, Contract Position, Oct. 2012-Present)
BioMat Sciences is an R&D company focusing on the discovery and commercialization of technologies for the
oral health field. Position was available for fulfillment of a National Science Foundation grant.
Collaborated with NASA in a multidisciplinary research study of an SBIR Phase I program
Serve as an engineering resource by conducting material analysis, mechanical characterization,
microscopy, and spectroscopy of materials in support of research studies and product advancements
Enhanced knowledge of research methodologies in support of research projects such as SOP and
proper sterilization techniques in the laboratory
Upgraded company’s marketing platform to directly prompt a profit
Mechanical Engineering Intern (FMS Engineering, LLC., Aug. 2011-Jun. 2012)
Established and incorporated in El Paso, Texas, FMS Engineering, LLC. is a private company categorized
under Engineering Services. Services include: Land Engineering Services, Project Engineering Services,
Engineering Management Service and Applied Engineering Service.
Design responsibilities included HVAC, plumbing, central utility systems and process piping sy stems
using AutoCAD software
Responsible for the preparation of air load calculations, equipment selection, and systems layout
Performed mechanical engineering functions under the direction of a professional engineer while
working with other engineers and architects on multiple projects
Integral member of a multidiscipline project team to successfully deliver project documents in
accordance with the assigned schedule and budget
Developed familiarity by reading, understanding and applying departmental desig n guides, standards,
systems, applicable engineering codes and FMS policies and procedures
Thermodynamics Assessment Evaluator (New Mexico State University, Aug. 2010-May 2012)
Duties and responsibilities focused on but not limited to:
Provided students with a working knowledge of applied thermodynamics
Aided students with my experiential expertise and knowledge focused on the principles of
thermodynamics and fluid mechanics of HVAC system design and installation
Automated the testing system to facilitate faculty’s ability in assessing/monitoring progress of the
student’s knowledge acquisition of course materials and presentation
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Applications: Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD MEP 3D 2012, Google SketchUp, ImageJ, Instron Software, LabView,
MathCAD, MATLAB, Pro/ENGINEER, RISA, SolidWorks, Trace, WordPress
Machining: Casting, CNC Mills, Grinder-Polisher, Lathes, Saw, Stamping, Turning
Equipment: Curing Light, Electric Muscle Simulator, FT Raman Spectroscopy, Instron, Intermittent
Compression Therapy, Micro Hardness, Milliohmeter, Spirometer, Stereo Microscope, Temperature
Control Units
Computer: CSS, HTML, Microsoft Office Professional, Open Source Research Methods, Web Site Development
Rafael Casas Jr., Page 2
RESEARCH
The Cross-Property Connection Between Mechanical Properties and Electrical Conductivity of
Cortical Bone
Designed and fabricated tools necessary to conduct experiments
Independent study led to the development of analytical methodology and mathematical modeling
Electrical conductivity values were correlated with Young’s Modulus and ultimate bending strength
Received accolades during defense process for originality of research protocol and analytical prowess
regarding the microstructure of cortical bone tissue .
Electrical Conductivity and Dielectric Properties of Cortical Bone: Micromechanical Modeling
and Experimental Verification
Journal Submission - Dr. Igor Sevostianov, Rafael Casas
This research focuses on the development of micromechanical model of the electrical conductivity of cortical
bone and its experimental verification. The problem is motivated by needs in bioengineering related to the
methods of electrical stimulation of bone remodeling. The findings identify a strong dependence of electrical
and dielectric properties on frequency in trabecular bone tissue impacted by the direction/density of blood
flow of red blood cells. Though findings are not unique, they revive experimental study and argumentation
with regard to the electrical conductivity of bone which first appeared in the 1980s.
Micromechanical modeling and experimentation of electrical conductivity of cortical bone is vital in
understanding the affliction of bone related diseases. This also assists for earlier detection than
technologies currently allow for.
Blood was modeled electrically by chemical treatment of bone samples
Analytical design provided for model validation against experimental data obtained from literature
and related studies
PROJECTS
Project Manager (Energy Efficient Windows, Spring 2010)
Goal: To develop an energy efficient solution for windows of low income families.
Working with the customer to understand their product needs, the team developed and coordinated
the execution of material/process characterization and validation plans of an existing product
Modifications based off thermodynamics concepts were successfully adapted at an affordable
quotation
Project Engineer (Medical Patient Transfer Device, Spring 2009)
Focus: To create an innovative medical solution for better patient outcome.
Review of existing devices to ensure compliancy with FDA regulatory requirements, along with
registered patents
Innovation of ideas led to the design, development, and manufacturing of an operable hydraulic
patient transfer system prototype
RELATED EXPERIENCE
Facility Manager & Event Coordinator (iSPORTS – Indoor Sports Complex, Sep. 2010-May 2012)
iSPORTS is a 30,000 sq. ft. indoor facility providing a comfortable and safe environment for athletes in the
community.
Managed day to day operation including account budgeting, flow planning, and website maintenance
Researched, developed, and implemented marketing strategies promoting growth for both the
business and local sports stage
Designed and modeled new additions to the complex layout using architectural software
Service Director (Restaurant Express, May 2005-Aug. 2010)
Restaurant Express is a delivery company offering services to the El Paso city region.
Upgraded market from tribal regions to city regions, and expanded services for locally owned business
and regional chains by 600%
Assisted in managing all business, financial, and marketing activities related to the business
Developed and updated labor standards
Lead Generator (EP Mechanical Technologies, INC., Aug. 2004-May 2005)
The company provides indoor air conditioning solutions and plumbing services for Texas and New Mexico.
Assistant sales representative for mechanical systems
Provided training for ongoing sales to other employees
Expanded marketing data for future sales leads and business growth