"I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination." - Jimmy Dean
Hi, I am Gian! I created this personal portfolio to give you a peek into my journey and share bits of experiences that mean a lot to me. Recently, I embarked on what turned out to be more than just a gap year; it was a true adventure through South East Asia. I backpacked, rode across an entire country on a motorbike, and pursued the real adventure, diving into experiences that tested my limits and expanded my horizons. After the travel dust settled, I shifted gears into learning, growing, and diving into new skills. I’ve stepped into the blockchain world, joined an incubator program, co-founded a startup, collaborated with projects and expanding my network the web3 communities. As a proud “Made in south” Italian, I’ve lived in the vibes of Salerno until I got my Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering back in 2013. Since I was a kid, I’ve had a knack for assembling computers and diving into the world of technology. Moving up north, I earned my master’s degree from Turin Polytechnic, wandered into a year as a test Engineer in Automotive, and then spent 6 years in the fast-paced Motorsport industry. That's where I got hooked on personal development, psychology, health, and new hobbies. I’m all about authenticity! I cherish every conversation, soaking in various perspectives, but ultimately, I follow my own compass, ever in search of new questions and answers.
I made this short video resume to introduce myself and allow people to already get to know something about me.
Video made by Gianmarco Califano.
Ever since I was young, I have been fascinated by technology and its potential to revolutionize the world. This passion has fueled my drive to explore cutting-edge areas within the tech industry, such as blockchain, Web3 and cryptocurrencies. My genuine enthusiasm for these emerging technologies enables me to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and industry trends, allowing me to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the table as a Product Manager.
Embarking on diverse tech projects, I have showcased my expertise in driving innovation through the application of programming skills and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.
My contributions have spanned crafting compelling pitch decks, forging networks and partnerships, conducting product and market discovery research, and MVP building. Each step has been chosen deliberately to ensure true ownership, decentralization, and versatility, reflecting my passion for this technology. Including this webpage, hosted on IPFS with a Web3 domain at "Cali-Gian.nft," minted on the Polygon Blockchain, embodying the principles of the digital ownership revolution. My commitment has deepened through significant milestones: - ICP Incubator Program: I learned about Web3 startups, building, collaborating and networking with amazing innovators. - Co-Founded a Startup: I am currently running a Web3-focused startup, bringing people a unique workspace that allows ownership of their knowledge and ideas in a decentralized way. - Strategic Collaborations: I engaged in pivotal collaborations, contributing to emerging projects that are pushing the boundaries of innovation. - Expanding Networks: I grown a substantial network within the Web3 communities, fostering partnerships and connections.
Studying Product Management, I got into action making two portfolio projects. I highlight the purpose, goals, and outcomes of each project. Mentioning the specific role I played as a Product Manager, the challenges I faced, and how I successfully navigated them to achieve the desired results. Additionally, emphasizing any innovative solutions, user-centric approaches, or effective product strategies that I employed during the project.
I used the most advanced proprietary engineering software, interpreting results for complex models/problems and establishing new guidelines. Verifying results by experience, due to the complexity of the motorsport applications. Benefits: Having a holistic view and contributing to support the development of engineering tools.
I created a tool that connects internal software with databases, enables quick data collection, automates design screenings, iterations and output analysis. I also wrote another program to process racetrack acquisitions from customers and generate input for the internal software. Benefits: Helping other engineers of the team reducing efforts with a faster design process and responsiveness to customer inquiries.
I proactively worked on the digitalisation journey of the company, on a digital end-to-end process, from customer enquiry though to product delivery. Benefits: Increased internal efficiency and transparency, reduced time to market, and added value for customers.
In my master's thesis, I performed data acquisition on a vehicle, wrote programs to analyze human behavior at driving and perform simulations to assess real damage on mechanical components. Benefits: Improved design of components, reduced costs for the company.
Collaborating with industry leaders, I've had the privilege of working closely with some of the most esteemed names in the field. Here, I proudly showcase the logos of these valued partners.
Design rules play a crucial role in every company, ensuring product performance and durability. For Scuderia Ferrari's Formula 1 cars, these rules are put to the test with extreme requirements. Racing competitions claim a continuous development and updates of car components, with drastically different application conditions than road cars. Reliability cannot be a compromise and overdesigning can result in unnecessary weight and costs. Consequently, design rules become just guidelines and traditional safety factors lose effectiveness. Over the course of six years, I've designed hundreds of components for Scuderia Ferrari's F1 cars, spanning engine, gearbox, transmissions, and wheels. Throughout this journey, I've handled every aspect, from collaborating with Ferrari engineers to performing calculations, component design, troubleshooting, and advancing process and quality standards. A curiosity: did you know that a single Ferrari F1 car has around 300 SKF bearings? Working in the high-stakes world of Formula 1 has taught me to push beyond safety boundaries to continually deliver performing solutions. It demands a deep understanding of the niche, innovative approaches and embracing accountability to decipher unconventional outcomes. My experience with Scuderia Ferrari has given me the skills and mindset to thrive in any demanding environment.
I designed bespoke product designs that increased cars' performances and ensured 100% exclusive supply.
I successfully acted as a sales representative for a product range within the F1 business, driving a 28% increase in results compared to the previous year, exceeding the KPIs.
Recognized as a lead engineer for global customers in different application fields and as subject matter expert, able to drive and implement innovative solutions.
Horacio Pagani wasn't entirely satisfied with the new wheel bearing designed for the Pagani Utopia. It was shiny, robust, and promised great performance, without a doubt. However, his idea of weight reduction was on a whole different level. His joke echoed, "We should introduce tougher safety shoes in case it falls during handling." Amusing, yet this meant finding a completely new way of designing. It's said to be no challenge, if it's within your confines of familiar expertise, right? When we crossed paths again, the excitement was sky high. The revised version featured a distinct texture, attainable only through 3D printing. This innovation not only significantly shed weight but also increased overall stiffness. I could drive this transformation only thanks to synergies with diverse knowledge, skills, design approach and the exceptional work done by all the colleagues involved. From the R&D center in the Netherlands to the Aerospace experts in France and material scientists in Sweden. Horacio unveiled his masterpiece, and I, a newfound belief in the power of teamwork.
I led projects worth a yearly 5.7M€ , creating proficient proposals and fulfilling customer requirements based on value selling.
In a fast-paced, small unit within a large company, I thrived as a versatile team member, embracing multiple responsibilities and navigating complex organizational structures. As the unique reference figure, I went beyond my role's boundaries, fostering synergies and driving innovative solutions that push boundaries.
I contributed to long term product innovation, strategy and roadmap, thanks to experience. Identifying product technical needs and driving the change towards future market trends, establishing new design rules and application guidelines.
Bringing an effective communication, I forged long-term relationships with global customers, stakeholders and cross-functional teams, within multiple departments and factories. This experience showcases my ability to navigate organizational structures and build synergies both internal and external.
Constantly collaborating with cross-functional teams, I learned from them what I could do autonomously and speed up the process. For example, use of tools in the laboratory, drawings database, customer service and management systems.
I demonstrated leadership skills by training colleagues and providing knowledge transfer. For instance, I have experience in guiding designers and quality inspections, showcasing my ability to lead and guide others, even without a formal position of authority.
Renting a proprietary villa. I am in charge of the website, online bookings and communications, planning and sometimes in-person welcoming guests from all over the world.
I am a licensed practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming.
I earned a certificate for The Science of Emotional Intelligence.
I learned to behave in multi-cultural environments and to develop my leadership skills.
Several contributions for company magazines and articles, about partnership strengthening and achievements of the SKF Racing Unit.
"Racing Unit Application Engineer Gianmarco Califano started working on the components for the SF1000 in April 2019. The commitment of SKF to the innovation dedicated to Ferrari never stops."
"Eng. Gianmarco Califano took the stage with Dallara and Muner University to hold a technical seminar dedicated to high-performance bearings. An opportunity to meet the engineers who will build the racing cars of tomorrow."
"Often, it is not easy to match demand for labour with supply: Gianmarco Califano representing SKF Racing is well aware of this"
I have been creating educational content for lectures and conferences, teaching University students, for multiple years.
I have been recognized as an expert in the industry as well as at universities, institutes or other organizations, representing SKF on all technical levels.
Invaluable assets that shaped who I am today: my character, mindset and attitude towards life challenges.
It opened my mind, impacting my cultural and emotional intelligence. Now almost a year in S-E Asia: I find myself having a clear big picture and also planning on-the-go. Really meaningful for me to overcome some of my fears, like diving 30 meters into the darkness of the ocean and living with tropical animals. Since I started working in 2016, I planned at least one trip per month, in Italy, Europe or the World.
Feeding my curiosity to explore technologies. I printed items that combined with real car components served as educational content at classes, fairs and university events. I set up remote surveillance and domotics systems at home. I assembled personal computers at high school and tried many softwares and firmware exploits like for gaming consoles and smartphones.
Being consistent, observing and adjusting upon results. I have been following and improving my fitness and nutrition plans since 2012. I have structured training schedules, intermittent fasting and yearly detox periods. In 2020 I started meditating every day, with benefits in terms of anxiety and letting go of thoughts and taking some situations more lightly.
I learnt to achieve results with patience and perseverance. It has been a long journey to learn how to be a proper and safe driver, both on and off the road. Also, I love doing maintenance with my father and take care of the 4 bikes we have in the family.
I found how practice and routines can make you (almost) perfect. Self-taught electric bass and drums since 15, I played in some rock bands with friends.
I find ways to adjust as the wind change. Every year, since I was 15, I find myself sailing the sea in Paestum. Daily rigging my small Laser boat, taking care of its equipment and sometimes teaching others.
I discovered the importance of my role in the team and taking decisions with a strong attitude. I played 10 years in the same team, until I was 18. Then, I became a referee for few years.
Forged my mindset. A way to express myself and train to overcome the obstacles. I performed along crews of pioneers in south of Italy.
Gianmarco Califano
G.califano24@gmail.com +39 3891572605