Mechanical Engineer Air Traffic
Resume:
AIKINS AMANKWAH
Professional Summary
A highly skilled Mechanical Engineer with a solid background in thermal power and propulsion systems, reinforced by hands-on engineering roles and academic specialisation. Completed a volunteer internship at the Ghana Air Force Maintenance Engineering Department and worked as an Air Traffic Control Engineer at Ghana Civil Aviation, where I worked on aircraft propulsion engines, developing core skills in turbo machinery diagnostics, powertrain systems, and thermal-fluid performance analysis. These competencies translate directly into the maintenance and optimisation of diesel engines and hydraulic power systems used in underground mining trucks, excavators, and heavy-duty vehicles. Additionally, served as an Electromechanical Engineer at Ghana Airports Company Limited, working with ground support equipment (e.g., tow tractors, air start units, and hydraulic loaders), which have functional parallels with surface mining and construction equipment. Successfully improved equipment reliability by 20% and reduced downtime by 15% through condition-based maintenance and system optimisation. I hold a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from UENR, Ghana, and studied a Pre-Master’s in Engineering at Cranfield University, UK, specialising in Thermal Power and Propulsion Engines. Proficient in MATLAB and VBA, I am passionate about applying advanced mechanical system knowledge and international engineering standards to improve performance, efficiency, and sustainability across mining, heavy-equipment, and industrial automotive applications. I currently hold an offer to pursue an MSc in Thermal Power and Propulsion at Cranfield University, having previously studied Its Pre- Masters in Engineering Program. WORK EXPERIENCE
Duxford Airbase Engineering Department South Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom 2024/11 - 2025/03 Aerospace Industrial Placement Intern
Collaborated with a team of mechanics to execute complex repair tasks, demonstrating strong teamwork and communication skills.
Implemented preventive maintenance schedules, reducing the likelihood of unexpected mechanical failures by 20%. Utilised advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to troubleshoot and repair aircraft systems, contributing to the overall reliability of the fleet.
Ensured compliance with all aviation regulations and safety protocols, maintaining a high standard of workmanship.
Provided training and mentorship to junior mechanics, fostering skill development and knowledge sharing within the team.
Documented all maintenance activities accurately, ensuring detailed records were kept for future reference and audit Ghana Civil Aviation Authority Accra, Ghana 2024/03 - 2024/08 Air Traffic Control Engineer
Served as an Air Traffic Control Engineer at the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, contributing to the safe and efficient management of air traffic operations.
Implemented advanced engineering solutions to enhance the reliability and performance of air traffic control systems.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless communication and coordination within the aviation network.
Conducted regular maintenance and troubleshooting of air traffic control equipment, ensuring optimal functionality and safety.
Developed and executed training programmes for new engineers, promoting high technical proficiency and safety awareness standards.
Played a key role in modernising air traffic control infrastructure, improving overall operational efficiency.
Ensured compliance with international aviation standards and regulations, maintaining the authority's reputation for excellence.
Actively participated in problem-solving initiatives, contributing to continuously improving air traffic management processes. Ghana Airports Company Limited Accra, Ghana 2022/10 - 2023/11 Electromechanical Engineer
Served as an electromechanical engineer at Ghana Airports Company Limited, contributing to the maintenance and optimisation of airport systems.
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Managed the installation and repair of electromechanical equipment, ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement engineering solutions that improved system reliability by 20%.
Conducted regular inspections and preventive maintenance, reducing equipment downtime by 15%.
Utilised advanced diagnostic tools to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues promptly.
Developed and implemented energy-saving initiatives, resulting in a 10% reduction in energy consumption.
Maintained comprehensive documentation of engineering processes and equipment maintenance, ensuring compliance with industry standards
EDUCATION
Cranfield University, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom 2024/09 – 2025/05
Pre Masters in Engineering (Thermal Power and Propulsion)
Maintenance (Mechanical and Aircraft systems)
Acquired understanding of mechanical and aircraft systems maintenance protocols, engine overhaul processes, line maintenance, and maintenance schedule classifications (A, B, C, and D checks). Studied fault diagnostics, safety standards, and regulatory frameworks such as EASA Part-66 and FAA requirements.
Participated in practical training involving borescope inspections, oil analysis, fuel filter replacement, and system diagnostics for turboprop and turbofan engines during hands-on sessions and internship attachment.
Materials and Stress Analysis
Studied materials used in mechanical machines, aircraft structures, including aluminium alloys, titanium, composites, and high-temperature ceramics. Covered material selection for fatigue resistance, thermal expansion, and corrosion protection. Learned about stress-strain relationships, failure theories, fatigue life estimation, and finite element analysis techniques.
Carried out stress analysis on mechanical structural components to evaluate loading conditions, deformation behaviour, and failure margins. Used sample case studies and aircraft maintenance records to validate theoretical predictions.
Aircraft, Automobile and Machine Engines
Jet Engines and Jet and Prop Engines
Gained comprehensive knowledge of turbofan and turbojet engines, focusing on Brayton cycle components: intake, compressor, combustor, turbine, and exhaust, with emphasis on high-bypass turbofans (e.g., Rolls-Royce Trent series) for fuel-efficient, low-noise commercial aviation, and low-bypass turbojets for supersonic military applications.
Developed core skills in compressor-turbine matching, specific thrust, and thermal efficiency analysis using real engine datasets.
Explored advanced fighter propulsion systems including afterburners, variable nozzle geometry, and thrust vectoring, as well as high-temperature materials and thermal management in combat engines.
Investigated engine performance under varying speeds and altitudes, examining the role of fan blade aerodynamics and variable stator vanes.
Participated in engine health monitoring and diagnostic simulations, including boroscope inspection for internal wear assessment.
Studied turboprop engines used in reconnaissance and transport aircraft, focusing on free turbines, gear reduction, and propeller dynamics. Completed practical turboprop diagnostics and oil system checks. University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana 2018/08 – 2022/10
BSc Mechanical Engineering
Relevant modules: Advanced Heat Transfer, Turbo-machinery, Thermodynamics, Mechanical Vibrations, Fluid Dynamics
Specialisation in Thermofluids and Energy Changes Engineering SKILLS
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TECHNICAL SKILLS
• Heavy-Duty Machinery Maintenance
Proficient in routine and corrective maintenance of mining and aviation-grade engines. At Duxford Airbase, participated in the maintenance review of a Rolls-Royce Avon turbojet engine, with comparable diagnostic procedures.
• Mechanical Systems Design
Ability to read, modify, and interpret engineering drawings and schematics. Designed ducting layouts for an HVAC system at Kotoka International Airport and compared airflow simulation techniques with ventilation systems used in underground mines.
• Diesel & Turbo Engine Systems
Practical understanding of turbo-machinery, including turbine engines and diesel propulsion units. At Duxford, observed teardown of a Pratt & Whitney JT9D engine, relating combustion efficiency techniques to CAT C27 diesel engines used in scoop trams.
• Thermofluids & Heat Transfer
Applied thermal design principles during university projects and at GCAA, where heat transfer modelling helped identify inefficient cooling in aircraft radiators, relevant to thermal management in mining haul trucks and drilling rigs.
• 3D CAD (SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
Created models for mechanical mounts and casings for HVAC equipment; capable of reverse engineering parts such as hydraulic arms or chassis mounts in mining LHD equipment.
• Vibration & Condition Monitoring
Conducted condition-based maintenance assessments using vibration data to predict equipment wear. Similar methods are used in predictive maintenance of drilling equipment.
• Safety & Risk Assessment
Trained in risk identification and safety compliance procedures. Participated in mock safety audits at Cranfield and implemented hazard identification for engine bay inspection.
• MATLAB & VBA for Mechanical Engineering
Used to simulate airflow and heat dissipation in rotating systems. Automated a maintenance logging tool using VBA for reporting engine servicing, similar to what’s needed for tracking mining fleet performance.
• Project Coordination
Coordinated with multidisciplinary teams during the installation of large chillers at the airport and while participating in team-based engine diagnostics at Duxford, developing skills for team-based problem solving in underground mining environments.
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COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Negotiation
Collaborated with vendors and engineering teams to negotiate component procurement and testing timelines for thermal propulsion systems.
Acted as liaison between engineering and quality assurance during the engine certification process, ensuring regulatory compliance and technical feasibility.
Fluency in Technical Communication
Demonstrated strong fluency in presenting complex engine concepts such as thermal efficiency, isentropic processes, and thrust augmentation techniques to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Authored technical reports and participated in peer review meetings covering turbine cooling technologies, heat exchanger designs, and compressor stall analysis.
Team Collaboration
4
Worked in cross-functional teams involving design engineers, propulsion analysts, and test engineers to solve engine vibration issues during flight simulation testing.
Contributed to group design projects simulating a two-spool turbofan engine, participating in subsystem integration discussions.
ACHIEVEMENTS AND CERTIFICATIONS
Certifications & Training
• Technicians for the World Certificate – Online
Course.
Completed a global technical training
program focused on mechanical and
electrical systems.
• Health and Safety Level 2 (VTQ) Certificate – Pro Training, Milton Keynes – United Kingdom.
Acquired essential knowledge in
workplace safety procedures and risk
assessment.
• Aerodynamics Training – Red Bull Advanced
Technology – Royal Aeronautical Society, Bedford – United Kingdom
Participated in an advanced session on
aerodynamic principles and innovation in
motorsport and aerospace design.
Leadership & Project Experience
• Project Manager – MESA, (UENR), Sunyani-Ghana
Led multidisciplinary engineering projects,
coordinated student engineering activities
and technical workshops.
• President – IAESTE UENR Chapter – University of
Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), Sunyani –
Ghana
Represented the local chapter of IAESTE,
organising exchange programs and
fostering international collaboration.
.
Professional Testimonial
• Ghana Civil Aviation Authority Accra – Ghana
Issued a formal testimonial recognising
technical contribution and training
involvement in aircraft systems and
maintenance.
Ghana Airports Company, Accra- Ghana
Certificate of Completion
ASSOCIATIONS
Ghana Institute of Engineering
Mechanical Engineers Association, Ghana
Royal Aeronautical Society, United Kingdom.
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS
Travelling
volunteerism ( Junior Achievement, Ghana, STEM Ambassador, Community Volunteer) REFEREES
Ing Mubarak Mohammed
Manager, Electromechanical Department, Ghana Airports Company.
************@*****.***
Ing Padmore Owusu
Manager, Projects Department, Ghana Airports Company *****.*******@****.***.**
Ing. Benjamin Anim
Snr Lecturer, Mechanical Engineering Department, KsTU ********.****@****.***.**
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