James Howie
Highbridge,Somerset
Summary
Bilingual and technically minded individual with fourteen years of experience in mechanical workshop environments. I have a strong interest in engineering and enjoy working with tools, machinery and mechanical systems. Through my previous experience, I have developed good practical skills and a hands-on approach to problem solving. I am looking for an opportunity to develop a career in engineering and maintenance, learn from experienced professionals and continue building my skills within the industry.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
10
10
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Advanced Engineering Apprentice
Ministry of Defense
Bristol, Somerset
2025.09 - 2026.01
- Engineering Maths (algebra, trigonometry, calculus)
- Mechanical Principals
- Pneumatic and Hydraulic systems
- Materials science
- TIG welding and workshop techniques
- Electronics and electrical circuit fundamentals
- Health and Safety
Turnaround Coordinator
DHL/ EasyJet
Bristol , Somerset
2023.10 - 2025.08
- Liaise with ground staff, aircrew and other third-party suppliers to deliver a safe and speedy turnaround of the aircraft.
- Calculate baggage weights and correct distribution of said weights throughout the aircraft to ensure safe operation for the pilot.
- Work with airport and aircraft personnel to resolve complications with flight plans and or disruptive passengers.
- Ensure the correct health and safety procedures are followed at all times by staff and passengers.
- Complete all necessary paperwork to permit plane to take off, often making last minute calculations under limited time constrains and challenging conditions.
Owner/Manager
Cheddar Bikes
Cheddar, Somerset
2021.09 - 2023.10
- Use a range of specialist tools to carry out complex repairs on a daily basis, always adhering to the correct health and safety procedure.
- Diagnosing faults then carrying out the necessary work to rectify issue while staying within customers budget.
- Following technical drawings and diagrams to carry out repairs on things such as, suspension systems & suspension kinematics, hydraulic systems and interference fit bearings.
- Building relationships with local community through volunteer work (looking after local bike trails) and social group rides.
- Carry out daily bookkeeping, administrative tasks and risk assessments to ensure smooth running of the business.
- Carry out workshops to various ages teaching correct bike maintenance and how to care for their own bikes.
Bicycle Mechanic
Pure Electric
Birmingham, West Midlands
2020.07 - 2021.09
- Performed thorough troubleshooting and fault-finding on various electric bikes using diagnostic software seeking swift resolution and repair.
- Performed new bike assemblies ready for customer collection.
- Provided recommendations to clients in alignment with needs ,preferences and budgets.
- Carried out complex repairs on a daily basis using specialist tools and equipment.
- Carried out risk assesments within the workshop on a regular basis in order to improve safety of my colleagues and myself.
Bicycle Mechanic / Sales Assistant
Cycle Republic
Birmingham, West Mindlands
2017.05 - 2020.07
- Working to strict sales targets utilising KPIs to achieve results.
- Providing recommendations to clients in alignment with needs, preferences and budget.
- Diagnosed issues on a daily basis and provided best courses of action to clients to fit within their budgets.
- Working on a range of bikes, from entry level to more specialist bikes upwards of ten thousand pounds.
- Carrying out a range of bicycle repairs from basic gear adjustments to full custom builds.
Education
BTEC Level 3 - Music Technology
Birmingham Metropolitan College
Birmingham, BIR 2012.09 - 2013.06
A-Levels - Media Studies
Bournville School and Sixth Form Centre
Birmingham 2009.09 - 2011.05
A-Levels - Fine Art
Bournville School and Sixth Form Centre
Birmingham 2009.09 - 2011.05
A-Levels - ICT
Bournville School and Sixth Form Centre
Birmingham 2009.09 - 2011.05
GCSE - Maths, English Literature, English Language, Science, Geography, I.C.T, Media, Art
Bournville School and Sixth Form Centre
Birmingham 2005.09 - 2009.07
Skills
- Great general mechanical skills
- Manual dexterity
- Team player
- Strong communication
- Problem solving
- Organisation
Languages
1,6,6
Languages
English
French
Chinese (Mandarin)
Timeline
Advanced Engineering Apprentice
Ministry of Defense
2025.09 - 2026.01
Turnaround Coordinator
DHL/ EasyJet
2023.10 - 2025.08
Owner/Manager
Cheddar Bikes
2021.09 - 2023.10
Bicycle Mechanic
Pure Electric
2020.07 - 2021.09
Bicycle Mechanic / Sales Assistant
Cycle Republic
2017.05 - 2020.07
BTEC Level 3 - Music Technology
Birmingham Metropolitan College
2012.09 - 2013.06
A-Levels - Media Studies
Bournville School and Sixth Form Centre
2009.09 - 2011.05
A-Levels - Fine Art
Bournville School and Sixth Form Centre
2009.09 - 2011.05
A-Levels - ICT
Bournville School and Sixth Form Centre
2009.09 - 2011.05
GCSE - Maths, English Literature, English Language, Science, Geography, I.C.T, Media, Art
Bournville School and Sixth Form Centre
2005.09 - 2009.07