Boyd Coleman Mpho Hayes (he/him)
Summary
Hands-on, self-taught technical builder with practical experience in electrical systems, mechanical assembly, and fabrication. Proven ability to diagnose, repair, and integrate complex systems using a wide range of tools, materials, and software. Seeking an entry-level apprenticeship or helper role in industrial electrical or millwright work, with a strong focus on safety, reliability, and continuous learning.
Technical Skills
- Electrical: Wiring, soldering, and crimping (JST, Molex); low-voltage DC systems; circuit prototyping (breadboard, perfboard); power supply integration (ATX conversion, buck/boost); sensor integration; multimeter-based diagnostics and troubleshooting
- Mechanical: Mechanical assembly, alignment, and adjustment of motion systems (lead screws, belts, gears), precision measurement (calipers, feeler gauges)
- Fabrication: 3D printing (FDM) operation and tuning; CAD (FreeCAD); tolerance-based design; enclosure design; design for manufacturability
- Tools: Confident use of soldering iron, crimpers, multimeter, drill, rotary tool, jigsaw, and general hand tools
- Systems: Linux-based systems, shell scripting, basic Python; remote system management (SSH); home networking (NAS, firewall configuration, Tailscale)
Applied Technical Experience
Self-Directed | 2023 — Present
Custom 3D Printer Build & Integration (“FRANKENPRINTER”)
- Rebuilt and integrated multiple non-functional FDM 3D printers into a single fully operational system
- Installed and configured control electronics (SKR Pico, Klipper firmware, Raspberry Pi-based controller)
- Designed and fabricated custom components including fan shrouds, mounts, and electronics enclosures
- Completed full custom wiring for motors, fans, sensors, and control systems with organized cable management
- Implemented dual Z-axis synchronization using belt-driven system
CAD Design & Fabrication (200+ Parts)
- Designed and produced over 200 custom parts for functional use in home, electronics, and mechanical systems
- Created assemblies with moving components including hinges, gears, and compliant mechanisms
- Applied precise measurement and tolerance-based design for high first-pass accuracy
Embedded Electronics Project — Automated Ventilation System
- Designed and built a motion-activated ventilation system using ESP8266 microcontroller
- Developed circuit design using schematic tools and prototyped on breadboard before final soldered assembly
- Integrated IR sensor, transistors, power regulation (buck converter), and switching controls
- Implemented timed activation logic and manual override modes via hardware switch
- Designed and fabricated full enclosure and airflow system, including external exhaust venting
Custom Bench Power Supplies (ATX Conversions)
- Converted ATX computer power supplies into multi-output bench power units with voltage regulation and auxiliary cooling systems
DIY Electronics & Fabrication Projects
- Built and modified small electronic devices including FM transmitter and fume extraction system
- Designed airflow systems, filtration, and custom-sealed enclosures using molded components
Home NAS & Network Infrastructure
- Built and configured Raspberry Pi-based NAS with Samba and NFS file sharing
- Implemented network security measures including firewall rules and SSH hardening
Applied Professional Experience
Various roles in public policy, research, journalism and community engagement
USA, South Africa, Senegal, and Canada | 2012 — 2026
- Delivered Occupational Health & Safety training to 700+ frontline workers
- Coordinated multi-stakeholder projects and facilitated group decision-making
- Managed complex projects from planning through execution and reporting
- Conducted research, synthesized findings, and communicated results clearly
- Worked in high-responsibility roles requiring accountability and follow-through
Education
Master of Public Policy & Global Affairs
University of British Columbia | Apr 2021
Bachelor of Arts, Journalism (Minor: Communications)
University of Kentucky | May 2016
Additional Information
- Born in South Africa; raised in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and the USA
- Interests: FOSS, digital rights, global digital equity, community building, accessibility