Team Profile - Logan Veldhuis
During his time at the University of Tasmania, Logan was heavily involved with the Formula-SAE Team, serving as the Head of Manufacturing and Head of Chassis. He joined BTT Engineering as an undergraduate in early 2019 and has built a sound knowledge base in vehicle compliance and standards in a short period of time. He also worked as a metal fabricator prior to joining BTT full time which further strengthened his practical skills and manufacturing knowledge. Since joining the team full time in early 2020, a strong interest in the industry and sound practical knowledge has led to him becoming an Approved Vehicle Certifier for both heavy and light vehicles in mid-2021 under licence number AVC079. Bringing a strong knowledge of CAD based modelling, design and finite element (FE) simulation to the company, has allowed Logan to assist clients with projects ranging from large TV screen trailers through to 10 yearly repair procedures on EWPs. Logan has been driving the Performance Based Standards (PBS) division where his understanding of the scheme, relationships within the industry and strong commitment to ensuring the best outcomes for the client has resulted in numerous new PBS vehicles on the road network.
Logan was asked some questions about him and his time with BTT Engineering:
What is your favourite or most satisfying project you have worked on while at BTT Engineering?
I’ve worked on so many projects over my time at BTT that it’s hard to pick one out in particular. One highlight was a 5 month secondment that I completed working in the Melbourne office. This provided exposure to a range of different projects not typically undertaken in Tassie and a more personal relationship to be developed with clients. Travelling to clients from Mildura to Warrnambool to across to Bairnsdale also allowed me to see a few sights along the way.
What do you see as your best asset as an engineer with BTT Engineering?
I feel that my organisation has been key in my success at BTT Engineering. I work with transport companies to create and then add vehicles to their PBS approvals. These companies are constantly receiving new assets so being organised and communicating with the client is key to avoid costly vehicle downtime.
If you were a client interested in engaging a business for engineering consultancy, why would you choose BTT Engineering to do it?
At BTT we have a diverse range of skillsets which allows us not only to assist in a number of different areas but also means that through collaboration we can look at a project from several different angles to achieve the best possible solution. Another thing that I personally as well as the other staff members pride ourselves on is our customer service and our willingness to accommodate when possible.
Where do you see the industry heading in the future?
As the freight task continues to grow I believe the industry is increasingly looking to how they can move freight more efficiently. We are seeing record numbers of PBS vehicles on the roads that include not only longer vehicles but also different axle group configurations to allow for more weight and better performance.
If you could go back to the time your graduated and give yourself some career advice, what would it be?
Take every opportunity you can to listen to what people within the industry have to say. There is so much experience and knowledge out there that people are happy to pass on if your happy to listen.
What are your interests outside of work?
Anything that gets me outside and keeps me fit and healthy, you might find me on a mountain bike ride after work or playing basketball at the gym. On the weekends I enjoy kayaking, bushwalking, camping and 4wding.