Problem
Hiring and retaining mechanical and electrical engineers for specialized convey installations are complicated – experienced trade professionals are challenging to locate and maintain without a dedicated engineer who can lead the team through complexity and uncertainty
Technology Implementation
By learning a skillset of this magnitude, I have translated the experience gained in this field into other areas that demand great attention to detail, organization, and vast comfort in cross-functional roles.
Process
To gain immense proficiency in a short period, the steps I took involved:
- Studying electrical blueprints and schematics for projects outside works hours
- Asking team leads questions
- An open willingness to admit, "I don't know."
- Taking the initiative to accept responsibility for small portions of large projects
- Developing a personal curriculum to internalize advanced electrical engineering concepts
- Rallying those with more experience than myself to fill the gaps in my knowledge base to ensure success despite lack of experience
Outcome
Through practicing curiosity, a willingness to be wrong and admit when I didn't understand, and disciplined adherence to structure, I was able to cut the average time of leading projects of this scope from 5-10 years to a year and a half. By utilizing the strengths and experience of those around me, I can continuously build projects outside my expertise. By focusing my energies on understanding the big picture and knowing where all the pieces fit, I earn the trust needed to rally those around me to push forward and complete any goal.
Below are examples of the types of projects I have led from start to finish as an industrial electrician and will give you a better sense of what is involved in installing and integrating conveyor systems.