Today I want to write about the joys of being a design engineer. What is it that I like most about the job?
In the number 1 spot is experiencing the excitement and the renewed enthusiasm, and awe, of the operators working the new gear. To me, that is the most satisfying because ultimately, I design for them. Why, because if the operators and the production guys like it then I know I did a good job. It feels great giving these folks something to be happy about. I have seen crews walking around like peacocks, so proud to be the ones to operate the new gear! These are the guys that make me jump to change a design just to keep them happy.
In the number 2 spot is the enjoyment of innovating. Coming up with killer ideas that make a design exceed the expectations of the owner. I always ask my customers to tell me what they want, not what they think is possible – that last part is my job. The customer knows what he needs for his business, my role is to give him what is going to make him successful. Recognizing and valuing that combination makes for success. Bouncing ideas and possibilities around, that synergy when the creative juices are flowing, that must be the best feeling ever!
In the number 3 spot is the enjoyment of working with the team manufacturing the machine. In my experience the trade staff, suppliers, contractors, these guys are all proud of what they are doing and get so involved and committed to a project that I sometimes go, wow, even get a bit scared, is this all about a design I did? It humbles me to see what good we humans are capable of and what can be achieved by competent and motivated folk.
In the number 4 spot comes the satisfaction of standing on the sideline of a new design/build and watching it in operation. To then reflect on what had been accomplished, overall. A design is about a successful team effort. It starts with the vision of the owner, the capturing of what is required, translating that into a concept, reviewing the design with the operators and maintenance guys, safety, manufacture, automation, and commissioning. I always insist on proper reviews with all stakeholders, no holds barred and ego set aside – guys, make sure you are happy with every nut and bolt before we build this! Ultimately the machine adds value to society through what it does or produces, and it is not a one-man job by any stretch of the imagination.
Number 5, I just love to get a phone call after 10, 15 years with “Hey Bert, you remember that x y z you built for us some years back?” Usually, the customer is looking for a spare part, a drawing, an upgrade, or some technical info. It is just so good to think that the machine is still in operation, doing its job and delivering value.
After a successful design and build a customer once said to me: “Bert, you must be so proud of what you have achieved”. I did not feel that. I responded with: “Actually, I am not sure that it can be described as being proud, rather, I feel thankful. Yes, I am happy about the machine, about its success, but it is being part of the whole story surrounding it, all the intrigues, the challenges, the difficulties, the exceptional efforts, the innovations, the personal growth stories, being part of all that is the greatest reward for me.”
