Abi Cahill
Elmhurst,IL
Summary
I am a creative and curious Mechanical Engineering student pursuing a Certificate in Digital Arts to align my education to a career in the Themed and Immersive Entertainment industry.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Lighting Designer and Technician
The Summit
Iowa City, IA
11.2024 - Current
- Manage technical production equipment, including lasers, LED fixtures, projectors, and CO2 jets.
- Operate lighting system software to create immersive environment during live DJ sets.
- Collaborate with the resident photographer, DJs, and other production team members.
- Program new effects aligned with the creative vision for special events and guest artists.
- Resolve technical challenges swiftly in dynamic, high-pressure situations.
Engineering Intern
DRC Heat Transfer
Elk Grove Village, IL
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Created SolidWorks models, translating designs into fabrication codes for prototypes.
- Streamlined documentation to improve communication between production and office teams.
- Prepared samples in metallurgy lab to identify failures and enhance quality.
- Researched materials and sourced components to fully meet project specifications.
- Assisted lead engineer with machine maintenance and updated procedure manuals.
Graphic Designer
Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority
Iowa City, IA
01.2023 - 12.2023
- Produced promotional graphics and designed event T-shirts for philanthropic events.
Education
B.S.E. - Mechanical Engineering
The University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA05.2027
Skills
- CAD software proficiency (SolidWorks, Creo Parametric, DraftSight, Vectorworks)
- Welding, machining, and CNC operation
- Graphic design (Illustrator, Photoshop)
- Video production and editing (DaVinci Resolve)
- Lighting software programming and operation (GMA2, Resolume Avenue)
- Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint
- Soldering, circuits, and Arduino
- MAX/MSP software
- Concept art and idea development
- Strong visual arts background
Leadership And Activities
- President - Animal Behavior Club, Elmhurst, IL | Aug 2018-May 2022
- Member - NEXUS Artineers, University of Iowa | Aug 2022-Current
- Member - Applied AI Club, University of Iowa | Mar 2025-Current
- Actor and Collaborator - Untitled and Good Mourning (Student Films), University of Iowa | 2024,2025
Recognition
- National Honors Society Member | Aug 2020-Apr 2022
- York Art Show - 2nd Place Semester 1, 1st Place & Teacher's Choice Award Semester 2 | 2022
- President's Award for Educational Excellence - York Community High School | 2022
Timeline
Lighting Designer and Technician
The Summit
11.2024 - Current
Engineering Intern
DRC Heat Transfer
05.2023 - 08.2023
Graphic Designer
Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority
01.2023 - 12.2023
B.S.E. - Mechanical Engineering
The University of Iowa