Steve Ballard
About Steve Ballard
Steve Ballard is a Structural Analysis Engineer specializing in fatigue analysis of weldments and metallic components at Navistar Inc, where he has worked since 2009. He holds a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida and has a strong background in finite element analysis and cab durability methods.
Work at Navistar
Steve Ballard has been employed at Navistar Inc. as a Structural Analysis Engineer in the Body Systems division since 2009. His role involves conducting fatigue analysis of weldments and metallic components, focusing on the automotive and off-highway industries. Ballard's expertise contributes to the development and optimization of vehicle structures, ensuring they meet durability and safety standards. He has spent 15 years in this position, working from the company's location in Lisle, IL.
Education and Expertise
Steve Ballard earned a Master of Science (M.S.) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida, where he studied from 2011 to 2015. Prior to this, he completed a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign from 2001 to 2005. His educational background provides a solid foundation for his specialization in fatigue analysis and finite element analysis, particularly in stress analysis of body components and structures.
Background
Before joining Navistar, Steve Ballard worked as an Analysis Engineer at Caterpillar from 2005 to 2009 in Aurora, IL. This four-year experience allowed him to develop skills in structural analysis and engineering principles. His transition to Navistar marked a continued focus on structural integrity within the automotive sector, building on the knowledge gained during his tenure at Caterpillar.
Technical Skills and Specializations
Steve Ballard specializes in both linear and non-linear finite element analysis, particularly in the stress analysis of body components and structures. He has extensive experience in implementing cab durability methods that consider time-dependent loading and dynamic effects. Additionally, he is proficient in coordinating off-shore analysis work and collaborating with program, design, and test teams, which enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of engineering projects.