Ian Eldergill
North Vancouver,BC
Summary
Accomplished Technical Director at Ballard Power Systems, adept in engineering fundamentals and leadership, spearheaded cross-functional teams to innovate and integrate new technologies, enhancing product capabilities and driving significant business growth. Expert in decision-making and fostering high-performance cultures, achieved notable advancements in fuel cell product development and strategic partnerships.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Technical Director
Ballard Power Systems
12.2020 - 09.2024
- Evaluated emerging technologies for potential integration into existing and future fuel cell products.
- Collaborated closely with various department heads on strategic planning initiatives to ensure alignment between corporate goals.
- Mentored junior engineers, fostering professional growth and enhancing team capabilities.
- Cultivated a high-performance culture within the organization by setting clear expectations for employees at all levels, providing regular feedback, and recognizing achievement.
- Collaborated with sales teams to provide expert advice on product capabilities during client engagements, resulting in increased revenue opportunities.
System Architect/Chief Engineer
Ballard Power Systems
09.2010 - 01.2020
- Led a cross-functional team of engineers to successfully develop new quality products (3 fuel cell stacks and 2 Heavy Duty bus modules) from initial concept through to final volume production.
- Managed the risk of introducing new technologies into the product development cycle to ensure technology leadership in new products.
- Optimized system performance by implementing innovative architectural solutions and strategies.
- Implemented design to cost methodologies and manufacturing methods without sacrificing quality in our products.
- Championed cross functional design reviews early and often to provide continuous feedback throughout the design process.
- Selected to represent the Vancouver office in Denmark as an expat (3 year assignment) and ensure smooth integration of the engineering departments.
Platform Manager
Ballard Power Systems
02.2005 - 09.2010
- Managed cross-functional teams (30-40 members) to ensure timely delivery of a family of products (platform) updates and features.
- Conducted regular reviews of competitor platforms, identifying areas for potential differentiation and innovation.
- Played a pivotal role in securing strategic customer partnerships that contributed significantly to overall business growth objectives.
- Established performance metrics to track platform success and drive ongoing improvements.
- Managed multi-million dollar budgets responsibly, achieving cost savings and ensuring resources were allocated effectively.
Manager - Mechanical Engineering
Ballard Power Systems
01.2002 - 02.2005
- Lead a team of 12 Engineers and fostered an environment of open communication within the department which led to enhanced collaboration on complex problem-solving tasks and efficient knowledge sharing.
- Conducted twice a year performance reviews interlaced with monthly one on ones providing continuous feedback to employees.
- Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Created a close team culture through constant communication and encouragement by organizing team building events celebrating accomplishments
Mechanical Engineer
Ballard Power Systems
08.1995 - 01.2002
- Designed and developed a steam reforming fuel processing sub-system for a natural gas and propane fired powerplant.
- Performed detailed engineering analysis, for heat exchanger design , catalyst bed design, burner design, pressure drop as inputs to the overall system design.
- Provided technical expertise during P&ID creation for several fuel cell products.
- Improved system performance through rigorous validation testing and iterative design revisions.
Product Development Engineer
HABCO Beverage Systems
09.1992 - 07.1995
- Developed new commercial refrigeration family of products featuring a patented "cassette" refrigeration module.
- Created detailed drawings, specifications and BOM structure for new design.
- Determined project costs, timelines, and limiting factors.
- Performed product and component verification and certification testing (UL and CSA) to ensure reliable product performance.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Queen's University
Kingston, ON06.1992
Skills
Sound Judgment
Effective leader
Engineering Fundamentals
Decision-Making
Timeline
Technical Director
Ballard Power Systems
12.2020 - 09.2024
System Architect/Chief Engineer
Ballard Power Systems
09.2010 - 01.2020
Platform Manager
Ballard Power Systems
02.2005 - 09.2010
Manager - Mechanical Engineering
Ballard Power Systems
01.2002 - 02.2005
Mechanical Engineer
Ballard Power Systems
08.1995 - 01.2002
Product Development Engineer
HABCO Beverage Systems
09.1992 - 07.1995
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Queen's University
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