Alternative Fuel Technologies

Team Members

James McCandless — CEO and Chief Engineer James McCandless is a mechanical engineer with more than 40 years experience in diesel engine and diesel fuel system design, development and executive management. Click here to read Mr. McCandless' resume.
Ken Duryn — Manufacturing & Quality Ken Duryn has over 30 years experience as a master toolmaker, all around machinist, precision grinder and CNC programmer/operator. He ran his own business (J.D. Tool & Gage) for 18 years. Ken trained under a German Master Toolmaker and attended Oakland Community College (business) and Henry Ford Community College (CNC programming). Ken understands all aspects of precision manufacturing and serves as our "drawing checker" as well as a manufacturing engineer.
Stefan Panson — Design Engineer & Analysis Stefan Panson is a recent graduate (Dean's List) of the University of Michigan with a Bachelors Degree in Interdisciplinary Engineering (mechanical engineering in addition to courses in electrical and aerospace engineering). Stefan is well trained in computer aided engineering, including CAD, Matlab & Simulink simulation, FEA and CFD. His main interest is in design and analysis.
Amelia Pillarelli — Design Engineer & IT Amelia Pillarelli graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. She began work with AFT in 2006 as both a designer and IT specialist. She has experience in the design and analysis of diesel engine fuel systems and components. A Michigan native, Amelia enjoys traveling in her spare time.
Yu-Chung Tsai — Test Engineer Yu-Chung Tsai has an MSME degree from the University of Detroit and 25 years experience as a design engineer. He is currently working in our laboratory as a product development engineer. In addition to his design and development skills, Yu‐Chung has a broad understanding of manufacturing processes. Fluent in Chinese, he is an asset to our overseas customers.
Kathy McCandless — Office Manager and Accounting Kathy McCandless handles all of our indirect and administrative duties including accounting-bookkeeping, purchasing, human resources and project proposals. Kathy has an MA degree from Northern Illinois University and a BA from Arizona State University. Kathy was a special needs reading teacher for 15 years but has been involved in our various engine engineering businesses since 1996.
Hannah & Vittoria Belle — Hannah is our lovable four-legged mascot while Vittoria is the youngest member of AFT. They only come into the office on occasion, but we sure enjoy it when they do!