Project Engineer with Cross-Industry Delivery Experience

THOMAS WHINIHAN

STERLING HEIGHTS MI 248-***-**** ********@*****.***

Summary

Dynamic Project Engineer with a proven record of delivering cost-efficient, technically sound solutions across construction, automotive, defense, and large-scale infrastructure projects. Adept at CAD modeling, FMEA, GD&T, cost analysis, and engineering calculations to evaluate complex systems and drive operational improvements., Known for strengthening cross-functional collaboration, optimizing workflows, and implementing data-driven strategies that enhance project transparency, reduce costs, and accelerate delivery timelines. Skilled in managing end-to-end engineering processes, including estimating, technical analysis, design review, scheduling, and contractor coordination while supporting multimillion-dollar programs for industry-leading organizations like General Motors, FAA, DTE, and Merino. Recognized as a detail-oriented problem solver who consistently elevates project performance, technical accuracy, and organizational efficiency.

Skills

Cad modeling

FMEA analysis

GD&T application

Sap systems

TeamCenter PLM

ProE software

VBA macros

Matlab simulation

Blueprint reading

Engineering drawings

Cost estimating tools

Hydraulic systems

Pump systems

Mechanical systems

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Project

Data analytics

C++ programming

Flow calculations

System Modeling

Technical Documentation

Experience

United Business Technologies – Troy 01/2025 to 03/2025 Construction Project Engineer (Short Term Assignment) MI

Reviewed design and bidding documents, evaluating contractor bids to ensure project adherence to schedule and budget.

Provided technical support to construction staff, assisting Project Manager with work schedules and financial projections.

Coordinated acquisition of materials, equipment, and labor, fostering efficient collaboration with contractors and vendors.

Monitored construction progress, prepared inspection reports, and maintained accurate records of project activities.

Collaborated with Project Manager to develop work schedules and manage project costs effectively. Mersino Dewatering 07/2023 to 05/2024

Cost Estimating Engineer Auburn Hills MI

Analyzed blueprints and project scope to design bypass and dewatering systems, estimating costs using TDH and NPSHa/r calculations.

Prepared submittals for bidding projects, contributing to successful contracts valued at up to $1.8M in labor and rental savings.

Designed and implemented sewage bypass and siphon systems for dam repairs, river diversions, force main diversions, and to keep lift stations and water treatment plants operational during construction.

Created detailed system drawings using CAD software to support project submittals and engineering approvals.

Evaluated feasibility, risks, and potential benefits of engineering changes, managing bypass systems with flow rates from 100 gpm to 120 MGD, over distances up to 5 miles. Grant Leading Technology 08/2021 to 06/2023

Project Coordinator Washington DC (Remote: Detroit, MI)

Coordinated nationwide office moves and remodels for FAA clients, ensuring a smooth consolidation of federal employees across multiple locations.

Managed project timelines, milestones, and deliverables, providing regular updates and progress reports to stakeholders.

Refined analytical approaches and project strategies, based on feedback and evolving requirements, ensure optimal outcomes.

Utilized SAP software to track project status, manage data, and generate reports for leadership review.

Identified and addressed project challenges proactively, maintaining communication with clients to ensure project goals were met efficiently.

1Build - Real Mountain View 01/2020 to 08/2021

Construction Cost Estimator CA (Remote: Detroit, MI)

Estimated projects are at 30%, 60%, and 90% design stages, as well as for bidding, covering painting, drywall, demolition, excavation, tile, millwork, structural steel, mechanical, plumbing, and framing.

Prepared accurate and detailed bid estimates to support successful project proposals and secure contracts.

Fostered open communication among team members and stakeholders to ensure project transparency and alignment.

Collaborated with cross-functional teams to coordinate construction requirements, timelines, and material needs.

Built trust with clients and project teams through consistent reporting, updates, and proactive problem- solving.

DTE 10/2018 to 04/2019

Major Enterprise Projects Cost Estimator Detroit MI

Forecasted project costs across Distribution, Operations, Renewables, and Facilities using engineering drawings at 30%, 60%, and 90% design phases.

Developed detailed material and expense estimates to enhance project budgeting accuracy.

Conducted risk assessments and implemented mitigation strategies to ensure project feasibility.

Coordinated with Project Engineers and Program Managers to create Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) estimates aligned with project scope.

Monitored costs to secure full funding and targeted 5% return on investment through resource optimization.

General Motors 12/2013 to 08/2018

Container Cost Estimator WARREN MI

Estimated production and material needs for returnable shipping containers from blueprints, supporting Class A surface parts, chassis, and full Body Shop operations for multi-year vehicle programs.

Calculated machining and stamping rates and costs, contributing to accurate project budgeting and financial planning.

Participated in VA/VE cost-reduction workshops to optimize container pricing and achieve engineering cost savings.

Benchmarked container designs and presented cost-saving recommendations to program teams and senior management for approval.

Led over 100 projects across multiple vehicles, ensuring that containers for automotive parts were designed, developed, and delivered on schedule to support SORP. Automation Alley 04/2011 to 10/2013

Container Cost Estimator Sterling Heights MI

Evaluated manufacturing feasibility of parts, ensuring prototypes met design and operational standards.

Created detailed blueprints and technical drawings to direct fabrication processes for sheet metal and steel.

Estimated production costs for prototypes, facilitating effective budget planning and resource allocation.

Developed military logistics databases to assess durability and performance of fleet vehicles.

Coordinated cross-functional initiatives to enhance prototype design and manufacturing efficiency, promoting long-term reliability.

DRS Technologies 01/2008 to 04/2011

Engineering & Analyst Madison Heights MI

Implemented military failure reporting system, achieving 31% cost reduction and enhanced accuracy.

Led continuous improvement initiatives to boost program efficiency and operational performance.

Conducted data analysis to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for informed decision-making.

Contributed to data mining efforts, optimizing processes and outcomes across key programs.

Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure effective system implementation and maximize impact.

Education and Training

Master of Science: Mechanical Engineering

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

Bachelor of Arts: Physics

Albion College

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Spearheaded a major process improvement as a container liaison at General Motors, successfully standardizing an automation for the bill of container to enhance visibility and streamline touchpoints

Collaborate cross-functionally with engineers, program teams, and buyers, tracking decisions and supply changes to reduce estimated container costs for vehicle programs by 10-20% across milestone gates

Developed a bypass system in Panama capable of transferring 120 MGD across a 600-foot mountain and through 3 miles of piping, generating $1.1 million in sales for Mersino TECHNICAL PROFICIENCIES

ProE TeamCenter SAP Macros Visual Basic for Applications Matlab C++ GD&T Microsoft Office Suite #HRJ#9c6e42d5-e765-40f5-8e15-d2b161e3d1f4#

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