My History

Thirty years ago I began my engineering career as an intern writing computer programs on a mainframe at an aerospace giant.  That was followed by several years doing advanced design studies and development of aircraft equipment installations at the same company.  A stint elsewhere designing medical products followed, and then I worked in product development and standardization at an electric motor manufacturer.

And then things got interesting.  I hit the road and became an independent engineer hired on a contract basis. I successfully completed a wide variety of projects in aerospace, transportation, medical products, consumer goods, and computer peripherals.  I was always asked to stay for extra projects by each client.  During this time I also pursued a surprisingly successful mini-career as an artist.

I eventually settled down for the next 13 years at a product development consulting company near Madison, Wisconsin.  During that time I learned an immense amount about product design, brainstorming and concept development, injection molding, project management and client relations.  I also received a handful of patents.

While continuing to work full time at the product development company, I started a company, KVgear, to design, manufacture and sell accessories for the musical instrument market.  This was done out of a desire for additional challenge and growth.  As KVgear continues to grow, it provides an ever-increasing outlet for my creativity and natural penchant for optimization.

Rafferty Engineering was formed in 2017.  Many projects are completed by myself.  But for larger projects I bring in other trusted engineers, industrial designers, graphic designers, prototyping specialists and even videographers.  Projects can be completed successfully regardless of your physical location.  For those clients who appreciate face-to-face meetings, my offices in Chicago, IL and Madison, WI, allow for on-site visits throughout the upper Midwest.  Travel elsewhere can be negotiated.

-Mike Rafferty