Being an Engineer

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In this episode, Roopinder shares his fascinating journey into engineering and publishing. He discusses his early struggles with math, the serendipitous path that led him to become an engineer, and his transition into the world of technical journalism. Roopinder provides insights into the evolution of CAD technology, the challenges of integrating AI into design tools, and the power and responsibility of journalism in shaping the engineering industry.

Join us as we delve into Roopinder’s insights on content creation, engineering trends, and his journey in becoming a pivotal voice in the engineering community.

Main Topics:

• Roopinder's background and journey into engineering
• His experiences in the publishing industry and the differences between engineering and publishing
• The history and advancements of CAD technology
• Roopinder's vision for the future of CAD and the role of AI in engineering design
• The influence of journalism on the engineering industry

About the guest: Roopinder Tara is a trailblazer in engineering publishing and content management with over two decades of experience shaping how engineers engage with technology and industry trends. Currently serving as Editor in Chief at EngTechnica, Roopinder has a proven record of launching innovative platforms, including EngineersRule.com, and growing audiences to unprecedented levels. He’s an expert in building editorial teams, connecting industry experts, and driving content strategies that balance business needs with editorial integrity.

Roopinder’s background spans leadership roles at engineering.com, TenLinks, and IMSI, where his strategies boosted revenues, readership, and brand recognition. He’s also a former professor of design and engineering, who tripled class engagement during his tenure. With degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Drexel University and Penn State, Roopinder bridges the technical and creative worlds with precision and passion.

Links:

Roopinder Tara - LinkedIn
EngTechnica Website

https://www.thewave.engineer/ 

 Aaron Moncur, host

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The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus 

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Today on the Being An Engineer podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome John Rogers and Sean Maciag as they share insights from their careers to help recent engineering graduates make a strong start. They discuss the transition from student to professional, overcoming imposter syndrome, accelerating career growth, and providing practical advice for aspiring engineers.

Main Topics Covered:

• Deciding to become an engineer and early career inspiration
• Writing a book to share lessons learned in the transition to industry
• Effective resume writing and standing out as a job candidate
• Gaps between academic preparation and real-world engineering
• Dealing with imposter syndrome and proving readiness for advancement
• Strategies for continuous learning and career development

About the guests: John Rogers and Sean Maciag are the authors of the newly released book A Career Worth Engineering: Don’t Just Graduate—Navigate the Transition from Student to Professional. With extensive backgrounds in engineering project management and R&D, John and Sean bring a wealth of knowledge on what it takes to succeed in engineering right out of college. John, a project manager in engineering, has honed his expertise in new product development across the pro-audio, aerospace, and defense industries. His academic journey includes a Bachelor’s in Engineering Management and a Master’s in Industrial and Systems Engineering, with a current pursuit of an Aerospace Engineering Master’s as well. Sean is a design engineer deeply rooted in R&D, with significant experience in firearms, defense, and aerospace industries, built on a solid foundation from his Mechanical Engineering degree. Their book distills years of experience into actionable advice for recent graduates and early-career professionals navigating the often tricky leap from academia to industry.

Join us as we dive into their insights on shaping a meaningful and dynamic engineering career.

Links:

John Rogers - LinkedIn
Sean Maciag - LinkedIn

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The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

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Today, we are thrilled to host an episode with an exceptional guest pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence. Kordel France discussed the challenges and potential of digitizing scents. He highlighted the need for a standard data format for olfactory AI and the complexities of detecting and analyzing air molecules. Kordel emphasized the importance of olfactory AI in various industries, including automotive for HVAC systems and quality control, and aerospace for detecting chemical leaks. He predicted that reliable olfactory AI for consumer products is 10 years away, while navigation and aerospace applications could be achieved sooner. France also stressed the need for better integration of AI with hardware and the importance of team collaboration in engineering.

Main Topics Covered:

• Kordel's background and early interest in engineering
• The concept of olfactory AI and the lack of research in this area
• Current state and future potential of olfactory AI technology
• Applications of olfactory AI in the automotive industry
• Challenges in developing olfactory AI systems
• Integrating AI with mechanical systems
• The future of autonomous vehicles
• Advice for young engineers

About the guest: Kordel France, an AI architect and technologist, is at the forefront of developing machine olfaction—teaching robots to smell. With a career spanning roles from Chief Technology Officer at startups to his current work at Toyota, Kordel's expertise integrates computer vision, sensor systems, and multi-agent learning.

Links:
Kordel France - LinkedIn 

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The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus 

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In this episode, Ryan shares his inspiring journey into engineering, overcoming challenges through relentless persistence, and developing daily habits to drive personal and professional growth. He discusses the importance of finding your purpose, the power of rapid prototyping, and strategies for accelerating engineering progress.

Main Topics Covered:

• Ryan's background and how he discovered his passion for engineering
• The role of hard work, persistence, and a growth mindset in achieving success
• Developing daily routines and habits to support personal and professional development
• Navigating complex engineering projects and building confidence through problem-solving
• Advice for young engineers on finding their niche and accelerating their careers

Books discussed during the episode:

• Think and Grow Rich
• Rich Dad, Poor Dad
• How to Win Friends and Influence People
• Crucial Conversations
• Failing Forward

About the guest: Ryian Williams is an energetic and ambitious engineer who has built an impressive career in product design and development, particularly in the medical device space. With over six years of experience at Alcon, a global leader in eye care, Ryian currently serves as a Senior Engineer in Technology Transfer. His role involves bridging the gap between design and manufacturing, ensuring that innovative medical products are successfully brought to market. Ryian’s passion for engineering is matched by his dedication to continuous learning and self-improvement, which has also led him to become a TEDx speaker, author, and content creator. He holds a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington and has been involved in a wide range of engineering roles, from CAD draftsman to product design and R&D engineering.

Links:
Ryian Williams - LinkedIn

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The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus 

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In this episode, Aaron Moncur interviews Carrie Hurlbut about her career journey and her role in leading environmental, health, and safety (EHS) initiatives at ASM, a global semiconductor equipment manufacturer. Carrie shares insights into the EHS field, the challenges of balancing practicality and creativity, and the importance of mentorship in her career development.

Main Topics Covered:

• Carrie's background and transition from biological sciences to engineering
• Understanding the role of EHS and its day-to-day activities
• Overview of ASM and the semiconductor industry
• Mitigating environmental and health risks in the manufacturing process
• Leveraging data analytics for better EHS outcomes
• The future of EHS and sustainability in the semiconductor industry
• Carrie's career path and the influence of mentors
• Balancing practicality and creativity in EHS projects
• Advice for engineers considering a career in EHS

About the guest: Carrie Hurlbut, the Director of Global Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) and Corporate Responsibility at ASM. With over 15 years in EHS roles, Carrie has led initiatives that bridge engineering with sustainability and workplace safety on a global scale. Her journey from studying biological sciences and environmental engineering to driving strategic EHS programs uniquely positions her to share valuable insights on aligning corporate responsibility with innovation, fostering inclusive leadership, and navigating the complexities of the semiconductor industry.

Links:
Carrie Hurlbut - LinkedIn
ASM website 

Subscribe to the show to get notified so you don't miss new episodes every Friday.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus 

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This episode is the chicken soup for the soul of engineering. Without a doubt, the most inspirational episode we’ve recorded to date as Andy shares with us how he and his company have helped elevate those in poverty and given their lives purpose and success. Along the way, he shares some very practical info about manufacturing tolerances and growing a manufacturing business, as well. 

Main Topics Covered:

• Andy Wells' early life and introduction to engineering
• Developing creativity and early inventions
• Transition to formal education and early career
• Founding Wells Technology and early challenges
• Building customer relationships and marketing strategies
• Manufacturing challenges and design for manufacturability (DFM)
• Social engineering project and giving back
• Balancing quality, price, and delivery
• Personal reflections and final thoughts

About the guest: Andy Wells is the founder and CEO of Wells Technology, a manufacturing company in Minnesota. Andy has degrees in physics and technology as well as decades of practical experience in design, materials, processes, and entrepreneurship. Over the years Wells Tech has grown from serving the aerospace industry to automotive, medical, defense, and food processing, and developed services in distribution, and training for manufacturing technologists.

Links:
Andy Wells - LinkedIn
Wells Technology Website

Subscribe to the show to get notified so you don't miss new episodes every Friday.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus 

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In this episode of the Being An Engineer Podcast, Geoff Gaw discusses his journey into engineering, the unique processes and challenges involved in metal manufacturing, and strategies for leading teams in highly regulated environments. Geoff also delves into the alignment of product development with process development, staying up to date with emerging technologies, the future of the medical device industry, and ways to accelerate the speed of engineering.

Main Topics:

• Geoff's path to becoming an engineer and the inspiration behind his career choice
• Unique processes and challenges in metal manufacturing, particularly with nitinol
• Strategies for managing teams in highly regulated environments like the medical device industry
• Aligning product development with process development and the transition from R&D to mass production
• Approaches to staying informed about emerging technologies and trends in the industry
• Predictions for the future of the medical device industry, including the integration of AI
• Techniques for accelerating the speed of engineering projects

About the guest: Geoff Gaw is an experienced mechanical engineer specializing in the medical device industry. With a degree in Mechanical Engineering and minors in Materials Science and Energy Engineering from Cal Poly Pomona, he has held leadership roles at Edwards Lifesciences, Medtronic, and Applied Medical. His expertise spans project management, product and process development, and manufacturing support. He has overseen the development of complex medical devices, scaling teams, and driving operational excellence from early development stages to mass production. Currently, he serves as a Sr. Principal Engineer at Edwards Lifesciences.

Links:
Geoff Gaw -  LinkedIn

Subscribe to the show to get notified so you don't miss new episodes every Friday.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus 

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In the seventh episode of How to Accelerate the Speed of Engineering, host Aaron Moncur welcomes David Malouf. David shares insights on overcoming common engineering challenges, employing effective tools and techniques, fostering psychological safety, and experimenting with new technologies and unconventional approaches to streamline workflows.

Main Topics Covered:

• Introduction to RF engineering and David Malouf's background
• Challenges in defining objectives and managing stakeholder expectations
• Tools for failing fast and inexpensively, including the use of checklists and project management systems
• The importance of clear communication and technical writing skills
• Fostering psychological safety and encouraging participation from younger engineers
• Experiences with introducing new project management tools to improve efficiency
• Lessons learned from project backfires and the importance of following established processes
• Unconventional approaches to expedite engineering, such as rapid prototyping and 3D printing

About the guest: David Malouf is a highly skilled Senior RF Design Engineer with over 13 years of experience, currently at Corning Incorporated. He has an extensive background in project planning, mechanical and RF design, and process optimization. With multiple patents to his name, David is adept at translating complex technical concepts into accessible ideas for non-experts. His previous roles include engineering positions at Benchmark Automation and Atlas Material Testing Technology, where he led product innovations and testing for advanced industrial systems. David holds a BS in Electromechanical Engineering from Vermont Technical College.

Links:
David Malouf - LinkedIn

Subscribe to the show to get notified so you don't miss new episodes every Friday.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus 

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This is a continuation in our ongoing series about How to Accelerate the Speed of Engineering. The discussion covers topics such as the importance of planning and execution, balancing problem-solving and asking for help, the role of checklists, the impact of leadership and team culture, effective communication and collaboration, risk management and building relationships, and lessons learned from past challenges.

Main Topics:

• The balance between speeding up projects and avoiding unforced errors
• The use of tools like Notion and Loom to improve productivity and efficiency
• The role of leadership in building a strong team culture
• Approaches to risk management and the value of building relationships
• Lessons learned from implementing new processes and tools

About the guest: Brad Hirayama is an experienced engineer and program manager specializing in medical devices, with a focus on new product development (NPD), biomedical devices, and process validation. Currently a Staff Engineer, he drives innovation in electrophysiology (EP) products. Brad's background includes roles at Abbott and NuVera Medical, where he contributed to the development of catheters and other vascular technologies. He has expertise in design thinking, FDA compliance, and leadership, all while embodying a passion for connecting people and technologies in impactful ways.

Links:
Brad Hirayama - LinkedIn

Subscribe to the show to get notified so you don't miss new episodes every Friday.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus 

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In the fifth episode of How to Accelerate the Speed of Engineering, host Aaron Moncur interviews Jim Gabriel. Jim shares his insights on overcoming common bottlenecks, effective decision-making, fostering psychological safety, cross-functional collaboration, data-driven performance improvement, and lessons learned from attempts to expedite engineering processes.

Main Topics:

• Identifying and addressing bottlenecks in engineering projects
• Empowering teams to make effective decisions
• Balancing autonomy and guidance for engineers
• Failing fast and failing cheap to drive innovation
• The role of leadership in creating a culture of acceleration
• Strategies for enhancing cross-functional collaboration
• Leveraging data and metrics to improve team performance
• Introducing new technologies and tools to streamline engineering
• Unconventional approaches to expedite engineering
• Enhancing communication and meeting effectiveness
• Lessons learned from attempts to accelerate engineering

About the guest: Jim Gabriel is a seasoned engineering leader whose most recent expertise lies in the medical device industry. As the Associate Director of Engineering at Abiomed, he played a crucial role in leading teams focused on the development of cutting-edge heart pump technologies that save lives. Jim holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering from Western Michigan University and a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from Northeastern University.

Links:
Jim Gabriel - LinkedIn
Archangel Operations Website

Subscribe to the show to get notified so you don't miss new episodes every Friday.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment like cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us at www.teampipeline.us

Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus