The Joy of Being an Engineer: Problem Solving and Leadership in MedTech

Ever since I was a child, tinkering with toys has been a passion. I could not resist taking things apart to understand what made them work. Today, as a professional engineer, I am paid to do precisely that. Every day presents a new challenge, but the satisfaction of finding solutions and streamlining processes is unparalleled.

A Day in the Life of an Engineer

One of my roles involves conducting “design for manufacture” reviews. Having the opportunity to review and assess potential new projects for some of the largest medical technology companies is a fulfilling responsibility. However, not all challenges are as straightforward as designing new projects. Sometimes, I need to promptly address day-to-day issues.

Case Study: Overcoming a Parylene Coating Issue

For instance, a few years ago, we encountered a significant problem with a parylene coating on a spinal surgery probe. Our Quality Assurance (QA) team had rejected the coatings from the supplier, but we were making little progress in resolving the issue. We were struggling to keep up with production schedules.

The solution didn't come from a technical manual or a late-night brainstorming session; it came when I decided to take a hands-on approach. I ordered two samples for immediate shipment to our customers for their inspection, and a simple high-potential (hipot) test was used to screen the coating for defects. This approach allowed us to return to full production within less than 48 hours. Furthermore, I worked closely with our supplier and purchasing department to improve the packaging as a long-term solution. This example illustrates the importance of thinking outside the box and the value of having a quick and decisive mindset.

Leadership and Collaboration

Over time, I progressed to a leadership role within the company, earning a managerial title, despite not supervising anyone. The role came with increased responsibilities and a substantial raise. My position now makes me the company's lead engineer, guiding and supporting my colleagues in various technical areas. While this was an achievement, it also added another layer of responsibility. It is essential to know who to approach when facing challenges, and in this context, it means having a comprehensive understanding of the expertise within the team.

Leadership is not just about making decisions; it is also about managing conflicts and overcoming boneheaded management decisions. These skills are valuable, but they are not exclusive to a management position like being a warehouse manager. What sets me apart as a professional is the ability to apply technical knowledge to resolve real-world issues and foster a collaborative environment. Having a solid support network and knowing the strengths of my colleagues is key to success in any engineering role.

Contributing Backward: Teaching and Advising

I am not just a problem solver and leader; I also give back to my community. I serve as an advisor to the local community college's mechatronics program and will be teaching a night class this fall. I find immense joy in sharing my knowledge with the next generation of engineers. Being able to teach and mentor is one of the most rewarding experiences for me. My background in mechatronics provides a unique perspective, and I look forward to shaping the minds of future engineers.

Personal Passion and Professional Fulfillment

The love for tinkering and solving complex problems never leaves me. Just as I enjoyed taking apart toys in my childhood, I derive immense satisfaction from understanding and fixing intricate systems in the workplace. As an engineer, every day is a new opportunity to innovate and solve problems. The joy of being an engineer is not just about the technical aspects but also the personal fulfillment that comes from making a difference in people's lives, especially in the medical field.

Conclusion

Being an engineer is a balanced mix of creativity, problem-solving, and leadership. It is a profession that challenges me daily, but the sense of accomplishment and the knowledge that my work impacts lives is indispensable. Whether it is reviewing new projects, resolving day-to-day issues, or fostering a collaborative team environment, being an engineer is a rewarding journey.

It is also a joy to give back to the community by sharing my knowledge and contributing to the next generation of engineers. The journey of an engineer is not just about technical skills; it is about personal growth and making a positive impact on the world.