Maina Benson

Degree-qualified Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineer (Second Class Upper Honours, Kenyatta University) with hands-on exposure across HVAC and vehicle refrigeration maintenance, industrial production, and project coordination gained through a self-managed construction project. Following a period of diversified technical and freelance work, now fully committed to re-establishing a long-term engineering career. Technically minded, self-motivated, and eager to apply foundational engineering knowledge under professional mentorship.

HVAC Maintenance Technician (Subcontract / Intermittent) at Cool Choice EA (2018 – 2020)

• Assisted in installation, commissioning, and routine maintenance of HVAC systems in commercial and residential premises.
• Performed fault diagnosis on cooling units; supported senior technicians in repair and component replacement.
• Applied refrigerant handling practices and workshop safety protocols.
• Returned in 2020 for a further engagement, supporting AC maintenance across multiple sites under the company's Kenya Power servicing contract.

Vehicle Refrigeration Intern at Sai Raj (2018-05 – 2018-05)

• Gained hands-on exposure to vehicle refrigeration (Thermoking) systems in a professional workshop environment.
• Supported diagnostic and servicing procedures on commercial vehicle cooling units under technician supervision.

Freelance Technical Researcher & Editor at Self-Employed (2018-06 – 2024)

• Conducted in-depth technical research for engineering and academic clients, demonstrating sustained analytical discipline.
• Provided professional proofreading and editing for technical documents, reports, and proposals.
• Maintained strong self-management and deadline adherence across diverse client engagements.

Residential Construction Project — Owner / Project Coordinator at Self-Managed (2020 – 2024)

• Planned and executed a phased residential build from foundation to near-completion, applying engineering thinking to practical site challenges.
• Managed budgeting, contractor (fundi) sourcing and supervision, materials procurement, and scheduling around fluctuating cash flow.
• Maintained a technical mindset and commitment to quality standards throughout the project.

Maintenance & Production Intern at Comply Industries (2015-05 – 2015-09)

• Gained exposure to industrial production processes, plant maintenance schedules, and equipment overhaul procedures.
• Assisted maintenance teams in conducting planned preventive maintenance (PPM) routines.
• Developed foundational understanding of manufacturing workflows and quality control.

Vehicle Service & Repair Intern at Crator Auto (2016-05 – 2016-09)

• Participated in diagnostic and repair procedures across a variety of vehicle makes and models.
• Supported technicians in engine, electrical, and air-conditioning system maintenance.
• Applied workshop safety standards and technical documentation practices in a live service environment.

B.Sc. in Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering – Kenyatta University (2012 – 2017)

Analytical Chemistry with Management (Transfer Year) – Kenyatta University (2011 – 2012)