A Day in the Life of Evan Davies: Mechanical Engineer at Crux

What does an average day look like for you as a mechanical engineer at Crux?

Every day at Crux is different. I cycle to work from home on the other side of Bristol and then plan and prioritise my tasks. I’m heavily involved in computer-aided design (CAD), creating and refining various parts. I often head down for coffee early in the morning with colleagues on my floor. It’s a nice way to start the day. I will check in with my project team to discuss design changes, further developments, and upcoming tasks. The meetings help me focus on what needs to be executed.

I work on different tasks throughout the day, which often involve heading to the lab to test physical prototypes. Interacting with the tangible parts I’ve designed on-screen is rewarding. Client calls are another essential aspect of my day, where I present my work, showcase progress, and address any questions they may have. By the end of the day, I feel a sense of achievement, having made significant strides in my projects.

What do you enjoy most about your role as an engineer?

For me, it is the variety of tasks. I appreciate the opportunity to work on diverse projects, from design and physical testing to supporting projects progressing through manufacturing. Seeing my creations come to life, from a sketch on paper to a fully functioning product, gives me immense satisfaction. I enjoy the entire cycle of taking an idea from its bare bones to a finished product that people can use.

What led you to study engineering?

I always liked building stuff, even if it was just Lego sets. There’s something nice about bikes because you can see exactly how they work. I feel like every mechanical engineer must like bikes and Lego! Maths and science were subjects I enjoyed and grasped well at school. The combination of design, hands-on building, maths, and science led me to engineering. Figuring out how things work and how we can improve them also drew me to this field.

What inspires you about the future of engineering and its potential impact on society?

Engineering is crucial in addressing global challenges such as climate change and population growth. I see great potential in the medical sector, where Crux operates, to design products that improve people’s lives and wellbeing. As the population ages, engineering will become increasingly important in developing solutions that cater to their needs.

Can you share a challenging project or problem you recently tackled?

I worked on a project that involved post-processing data collected from testing for a client who wanted to publish their results in a scientific publication. The task required analysing the data, creating graphs, and ensuring that the information was presented in a way that aligned with the client’s expectations for the paper.

I approached the project by identifying the desired outcomes and the information we wanted to extract from the data. I then developed a Python script to process the data, perform the necessary analysis, and generate suitable graphs for the publication. The project involved extensive collaboration and communication between the authors and the client, with frequent updates and feedback. I learned the value of a collective approach and how effective it can be when there is regular communication between all parties involved.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in this field?

I advise aspiring engineers to explore various opportunities and try different things. Keep an open mind and embrace any tasks or challenges that come your way. Being inquisitive and asking questions about the design and functionality of everyday objects can help develop an engineering mindset; curiosity can function as inspiration when designing and creating new products.

What do you get up to outside of work?

I’m an avid cyclist and runner; I enjoy staying active and exploring the outdoors. Living in Bristol allows me to easily access the countryside by cycling across the suspension bridge. As a student, I also spend time with my housemates and friends; I like to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Trying to balance being a student and working at the same time doesn’t always go hand in hand, but most of the time, it works out.