In this episode, I’m joined by Michael Collins, working at Impact Automation. Michael shares his background in engineering, specifically in the field of material handling and automation. He discusses his transition from a technical role to a consultative sales position, focusing on building a commercial business vertical and finding innovative solutions for customers in the material handling industry. Michael emphasizes the importance of passion and curiosity in pursuing a career in engineering and highlights the various paths available to individuals interested in the field. He also discusses the shifts he has witnessed in the industry, including advancements in safety, data management, and the integration of AI technology. 

Tune in to learn more about bridging the gap between engineering curriculum and industry skills, career pathways and industry exposures, and increasing diversity in the engineering workforce. Also, remember to sign up for the newsletter to stay informed about new episodes, insights, resources, and upcoming events and opportunities.

Key highlights from the call

[00:03:27] Increasing sales and automation

[00:06:03] The importance of combining sales and engineering in Michael’s role

[00:09:26] Michael's views on shifts in education and neglect of technical skills

[00:13:07] The need for a balanced education with technical skills to address the tradespeople shortage

[00:15:17] The importance of staying curious and following one's passion

[00:19:00] Traditional education and hands-on learning

[00:24:41] The role of material handling in automating product movement within facilities

[00:27:23] Advancements in conveyor technology for enhanced safety, efficiency, and versatility in product handling

[00:30:08] The role of data in warehouse operations

[00:36:01] The role of middleware software

[00:38:02] How AI and predictive analysis can help in optimizing warehouse efficiency

[00:42:00] The essence of Michael's daily routine

[00:50:08] The importance of a holistic sales experience

[00:53:08] The influence of Michael’s parents on his career path

[00:57:20] Michael's advice

[01:00:02] The importance of both curiosity and passion in pursuing a career

Notable Quotes

●       There's a requirement to stay curious. Always, always drive. If you have a passion and you're going for that passion, there's going to be hurdles. There will be times along that path that you ask yourself, am I doing the right thing? Should I be doing this? Should I change that? And that's, I think, a natural thought process whenever you come across a hurdle or a challenge in a career path or an educational path. 

●       I think without passion, it's hard to maintain resolve or kind of keep on that path regardless of what it is, whether you're autodidact teaching yourself or whether you're going to university or technical school, if you don't have passion for it, it's very difficult.

●       The traditional education system is broken when it comes to hands-on technical skills. We need more focus on trades and technical education.

●       I think people fear automation because they think it will replace humans. But my argument to that is I think just like our cell phones and our earbuds and our hearing aids and p

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