Jake Hirst
Jupiter,USA
Summary
Dynamic Structural Engineer with a proven track record at Belcan Engineering, excelling in RBD and FEA simulations using ANSYS. Recognized for optimizing analysis processes, enhancing productivity, and fostering strong client relationships through effective communication. Adept at leading teams and delivering high-quality results in fast-paced environments.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Themed Entertainment Engineering – Structural Engineer Team Lead
Belcan Engineering
West Palm Beach, Florida
10.2025 - Current
- Led rigid body dynamics (RBD) motion analysis using Greubler’s count to define operating and failure mode boundary conditions for complex mechanical systems.
- Performed and reviewed FEA simulations in ANSYS Mechanical, integrating motion analysis results to assess system stresses and performance.
- Developed criteria to identify critical components and implemented submodeling techniques to evaluate system stresses and performance.
- Optimized analysis and models, enhancing simulation speed and iteration cycles while increasing overall engineering productivity.
- Collaborated with clients and project management to maintain project scope, schedule, and quality in high-pressure environments; developed training programs to enhance engineers' skills in RBD and FEA workflows.
Pratt & Whitney - Structures Engineer
Belcan Engineering
West Palm Beach, Florida
06.2024 - Current
- Performed structural analysis on commercial and military hardware including rotors, bolts, & airfoils.
- Modified 2D and 3D finite element models by meshing and mapping thermals, pressures, boundary conditions, constraints, and other loading in ANSYS ADPL and Workbench, enhancing model accuracy.
- Pulled stresses and dieouts to perform high and low cycle fatigue analysis and crack growth based on engineering standards.
- Evaluated colleagues' analyses and dispositions for errors before submission to customers, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
- Cultivated strong customer relationships through consistent delivery of quality work and effective communication.
SAE Micro-UAV Design Competition
University of Central Florida
Orlando, Florida
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Researched materials to ensure they possessed the desired characteristics allowing the micro-UAV to operate within the design parameters.
- Generated a price sheet for the various materials and the components they were applied to.
- Utilized SolidWorks to generate models of different components of the UAV.
- Ran computer-based simulations of fluid motion problems, utilizing Ansys, to analyze the aerodynamics of the UAV in varying environments.
- Manufactured micro-UAV using a variety of materials and techniques.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL05.2024
Skills
- Ansys ADPL
- Ansys Mechanical (RBD & FEA)
- Ansys Spaceclaim
- SolidWorks (RBD & Design)
- Microsoft Office
Timeline
Themed Entertainment Engineering – Structural Engineer Team Lead
Belcan Engineering
10.2025 - Current
Pratt & Whitney - Structures Engineer
Belcan Engineering
06.2024 - Current
SAE Micro-UAV Design Competition
University of Central Florida
08.2023 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Aerospace Engineering
University of Central Florida