Derek Li

Derek Li

Mechanical Engineering student at Wentworth Institute of Technology focused on CAD, machining, fabrication, and hands-on problem solving. I enjoy taking ideas from concept to build through iteration, manufacturing, and practical design work.

Project 01

Kitchen Aid Arm

Engineering Design (Group) • Design, prototyping, and optimization

The Challenge

Optimize a 3D-printed arm for range, strength, appearance, efficiency, and cost while balancing design constraints in a team setting.

The Solution

Iterated through multiple prototypes and collaborated on a wall-mounted 3D-printed arm system designed in SolidWorks, refining layout and functionality through testing.

Multiple Iterations

3D-Printed Prototype

Team-Based Design

SolidWorks Prototyping Design

Project 02

Wall Mounted Can Crusher

Engineering Graphics I (Group) • CAD modeling and assembly design

The Challenge

Design and model a complete wall-mounted can crusher that functions as a full assembly and communicates design intent clearly through engineering drawings.

The Solution

Created engineering drawings, modeled complex interacting parts in SolidWorks, and presented a complete can crusher assembly as a functional system.

Full Assembly Model

Presented Design

Complex Part Modeling

SolidWorks Assemblies Drawings

Project 03

Steel Heart Fabrication

Wentworth Society of Manufacturing • Fabrication project

The Challenge

Fabricate a precise project requiring accurate measurement, manual machining, welding, finishing, and a clean final presentation.

The Solution

Used calipers, micrometers, manual milling, MIG welding, sanding, and protective coating processes to fabricate and finish a steel heart assembly mounted to a base plate.

Manual Machining

MIG Welded

Finished + Coated

Manufacturing Milling Welding

Who I Am

I am a Mechanical Engineering student at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, Massachusetts, expected to graduate in August 2028. My interests are centered around hands-on engineering work, especially CAD, machining, manufacturing, and turning ideas into real working builds.

Education

Wentworth Institute of Technology
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering
Expected Graduation: Aug. 2028

Related coursework: Thermodynamics I, Engineering Design, Engineering Graphics, Engineering Statics, and Physics II.

What I’ve Done

Kalow Technology

Intern • Rutland, VT

May 2025 – Sep 2025

• Operated and assisted in manufacturing processes including countersinking, tapping, brake press operation, PEM installation, and surface finishing equipment.

• Interpreted engineering drawings independently to set up and execute machining tasks with minimal supervision.

• Supported powder coating operations including masking, hanging, and storing finished components while maintaining quality standards.

• Worked in a fast-paced production environment with strong attention to detail and daily output goals.

Wentworth Society of Manufacturing

Member • Wentworth Institute of Technology

Current

• Fabricated a manual milling project using calipers, micrometers, and multiple machining techniques.

• Built a steel heart design by cutting and bending steel stock, MIG welding the structure to a base plate, and finishing the assembly through sanding and protective coating.

Projects

Kitchen Aid Arm

Wall Mounted Can Crusher

Steel Heart Fabrication

My Resume

Skills

Software

Manufacturing

Lab & Fabrication

Engineering

Who I Am

What I’ve Done

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