S5E41 Jim Gabriel | How to Accelerate the Speed of Engineering, Episode 5

Being an Engineer

#Aaron Moncur #Mechanical Engineering #Self Improvement For Engineers #Medical Device Engineering #Medical Device Test Fixtures #Engineering Education #Engineering Soft Skills #Product Development #Product Design #Science #Tech #Careers #Engineering #Business #Industries #Mechanism Design #SOLIDWORKS #CAD

48:45

FREE TICKETS?! Yes, really. In this episode of Tickets to Travel: The Business of Travel Experiences , we’re joined by the ultimate guest list insider, Lance Dashoff, founder of Loudie — the app that’s quietly revolutionizing how fans score free concert, comedy, and festival tickets across the U.S. From his early days at WME curating VIP access, to launching a platform that fills empty seats and fuels unforgettable nights out, Lance spills the tea on: Why 30–40% of tickets go unsold How promoters are secretly using free ticketing to boost bar sales and fan buzz The economics behind live events and why not all sold-out shows are actually sold out How Loudie helps fans and venues win — without the scammy vibes Why travel pros and concierges should start recommending this app yesterday Whether you’re in LA, NYC, or stuck in traffic on the way to Philly — this is the episode you can’t afford to miss (literally). Download Loudie, follow us @tix2travelpod on TikTok, IG, and YouTube, and grab your next night out before someone else does. Because every ticket is a ticket to travel — and sometimes the best ones are free. www.tttpod.com…

about a year ago 45:36

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

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

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Chapters

1. Bottlenecks in Engineering Projects (00:00:00)

2. Decision-Making Challenges (00:02:41)

3. Failing Fast and Failing Cheap (00:08:48)

4. Leadership's Role in Accelerating Engineering Projects (00:12:46)

5. Creating Psychologically Safe Environments (00:14:47)

6. Best Practices for Cross-Functional Collaboration (00:19:37)

7. Measuring and Improving Team Performance (00:22:42)

8. Introducing New Technologies and Tools (00:27:10)

9. Unconventional Approaches to Expedite Engineering (00:30:51)

10. Enhancing Communication and Meeting Effectiveness (00:34:10)

303 episodes

S5E41 Jim Gabriel | How to Accelerate the Speed of Engineering, Episode 5

Being an Engineer

105 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

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

Links:
Jim Gabriel - LinkedIn
Archangel Operations Website

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

📅 October 21-22, 2025
📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

About Being An Engineer

Chapters

1. Bottlenecks in Engineering Projects (00:00:00)

2. Decision-Making Challenges (00:02:41)

3. Failing Fast and Failing Cheap (00:08:48)

4. Leadership's Role in Accelerating Engineering Projects (00:12:46)

5. Creating Psychologically Safe Environments (00:14:47)

6. Best Practices for Cross-Functional Collaboration (00:19:37)

7. Measuring and Improving Team Performance (00:22:42)

8. Introducing New Technologies and Tools (00:27:10)

9. Unconventional Approaches to Expedite Engineering (00:30:51)

10. Enhancing Communication and Meeting Effectiveness (00:34:10)

303 episodes

All episodes

Being an Engineer

1
S6E23 Mihir Shah | Buying & Growing a High Performing Machine Shop 38:44

3 days ago38:44

38:44

Send us a text Mihir Shah is a multifaceted engineer and entrepreneur whose career spans hands-on hardware design, startup leadership, and industrial investment. He holds degrees in electrical engineering from Santa Clara University and the University of Pennsylvania. His early career included roles at Tesla and Axon, where he contributed to hardware design and firmware development. In 2018, he co-founded inspectAR, a company that developed augmented reality tools for PCB debugging, which was acquired by Cadence Design Systems in 2020. Currently, Mihir serves as President of TOMI Engineering , an AS9100-certified CNC machining and assembly company serving the aerospace, defense, and medical industries. Under his leadership, TOMI is focusing on growth through investments in talent, equipment, and technology. Mihir is also a Principal at Shah Capital Ventures, a family investment group that partners with American industrial businesses and entrepreneurs. Their portfolio includes companies like Summit Interconnect and Royal Circuits. In addition, he co-founded Hardware FYI , a platform that provides resources for hardware engineers, including a newsletter, job board, and technical interview guides. The platform has grown to over 12,000 subscribers and aims to be a central hub for hardware engineering professionals. Mihir's diverse experiences make him a valuable guest for discussions on engineering leadership, startup growth, and the future of hardware development. LINKS: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mihirmshah8/ https://tomiengineering.com/ https://www.hardwarefyi.com/ Aaron Moncur, host 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E22 Dean Odell | Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) 38:08

10 days ago38:08

38:08

Send us a text Aaron Moncur sits down with Dean Odell, a distinguished mechanical engineering instructor and YouTube educator, to explore the fascinating world of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T). Dean shares his journey from a welder to an engineering instructor, discusses the importance of GD&T in manufacturing, and reveals insights from his popular YouTube channel, dedicated to technical education. Main Topics: Origins and evolution of GD&T Common misconceptions about geometric tolerancing Practical applications in engineering and manufacturing Dean's approach to teaching technical concepts The importance of understanding design intent Inspection techniques and measurement tools About the guest: R. Dean Odell is a distinguished mechanical engineering educator and consultant, specializing in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) technologies. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology from SUNY Polytechnic Institute and an A.A.S. from Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC), where he currently teaches courses in GD&T, CAD, CMM, metallurgy, and robotics as an assistant professor. Dean is also a prominent online educator with over 32,000 YouTube subscribers, offering tutorials on GD&T, CMM operation, print reading, and metallurgy. Beyond academia, he conducts in-person training across the United States, particularly in GD&T and Zeiss CMM, known for his clear and hands-on teaching style. His work reflects a strong dedication to advancing precision manufacturing and engineering education. Links: Dean Odell - LinkedIn Website YouTube 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E21 Ron Higgs | Systems Thinking, People Skills, & Executive Leadership 49:42

17 days ago49:42

49:42

Send us a text Ron Higgs shares insights on transforming engineers into effective executive leaders, drawing from his extensive experience in military aviation, aerospace, and consulting. He discusses the critical skills engineers need to advance into leadership roles, emphasizing people skills, systems thinking, and continuous improvement. Main Topics: Journey from Naval Flight Officer to Executive Coach Developing People Skills in Technical Professions Systems Thinking in Leadership Overcoming Communication and Leadership Challenges Strategies for Engineers Transitioning to Leadership Roles About the guest: Ron Higgs is an experienced executive coach and operational strategist with a strong background in both military and corporate leadership. A U.S. Naval Academy and Naval Postgraduate School graduate, he began his career as a Naval Flight Officer, developing key leadership skills in adaptability and mission execution. With over 20 years in engineering and operations roles at companies like Boeing and L3 Technologies, Ron has successfully led initiatives that enhanced performance and increased company valuations. He now leads Wolf Management Solutions and serves as a Scale Architect using the Predictable Success model, helping technical leaders grow into visionary executives. Ron also acts as a Fractional COO and board member, emphasizing emotional intelligence, systems thinking, and sustainable team development. His human-centered approach to leadership is rooted in the belief that great leaders are made and that engineers have the potential to become exceptional leaders. Links: Ron Higgs LinkedIn Wolf Management Solutions Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E20 John Martell | Mechanisms, Drones, and Excel Macros 43:28

24 days ago43:28

43:28

Send us a text Join Aaron Moncur as he sits down with John Martell, a mechanical engineer with over 14 years of experience in aerospace, medical devices, automation, and geospatial drone services. Discover John's engineering journey, his innovative approach to mechanism design, and how he transitioned from mechanical engineering to data management. Main Topics: Mechanical Engineering Career Path Mechanism Design Techniques Drone Geospatial Services Engineering Leadership Automation and Productivity Tools The Intersection of Music and Engineering Creativity About the guest: John Martell is a versatile mechanical engineer with over 14 years of experience across aerospace, product development, and geospatial drone services. He's currently the Director of Data Management at Aero Velocity, he applies tools like QGIS, Python, and LP360 to lead large-scale geospatial projects. His previous roles include Lead Mechanical Engineer at Workhorse Aero and key engineering positions at Pipeline Design & Engineering, where he gained recognition for innovation in automation and medical device testing. John is known not only for his technical skill and leadership but also for his creative problem-solving and passion for continuous learning. He enhances engineering processes through custom tools and explores artistic pursuits under the name “Olivund,” including composing music for the Being an Engineer podcast. His blend of engineering expertise and creativity defines him as a modern, multifaceted professional. Links: John Martell LinkedIn https://507movements.com/ 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E19 Stuart Grant | MedTech Innovation 50:29

4 weeks ago50:29

50:29

Send us a text Join host Aaron Moncur as he sits down with Dr. Stuart Grant, a seasoned med tech innovator with over 25 years of experience at industry giants like Johnson & Johnson and DePuy. Dr. Grant shares his journey from design engineering to founding his own consultancy, offering invaluable insights into medical device development, regulatory challenges, and the future of medical technology. Main Topics: Career progression in medical device engineering Challenges of starting a medical tech consultancy Regulatory differences across global markets Innovation strategies in medical technology Advice for young engineers Future trends in surgical robotics and AI About the guest: Dr. Stuart Grant is a seasoned expert in the MedTech industry with over 20 years of experience at major companies like Johnson & Johnson and DePuy Synthes. In 2023, he founded Archetype MedTech, a consultancy that helps medical device companies achieve market approval through innovation strategy, technical evaluations, and team training. He holds advanced innovation and project management degrees and is a Chartered Engineer with several medical device patents. In addition to his technical work, Stuart lectures on innovation history and is a visual artist. His international experience and multidisciplinary expertise make him a key advisor for MedTech startups and scale-ups. Links: Dr. Stuart Grant - LinkedIn Archetype MedTech Website The Idea Factory: Bell Labs and the Great Age of American Innovation Exactly How Precision Engineers Created the Modern World 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E18 Nikolaj Kloch | Public Speaking, Career Changes, & Leading with Value 56:50

5 weeks ago56:50

56:50

Send us a text Nikolaj Kloch shares his unique journey from aerospace engineering to becoming a leading videographer specializing in content creation for public speakers. He discusses how engineering skills translate into entrepreneurship, content creation, and business development. Main Topics: Transitioning from aerospace engineering to videography Building a business by leading with value Public speaking tips for engineers Leveraging engineering skills in content creation Social media and networking strategies Career change advice for professionals About the guest: Nikolaj Kloch is a former aerospace engineer turned videographer who specializes in creating content for public speakers. With over four years of experience, he helps speakers boost their visibility, book more engagements, and increase their income—serving clients who’ve spoken for top companies like AWS, Jaguar, and Airbus. Previously, he worked at Boeing as a Propulsion Design Engineer and was part of the MSTEP Steering Committee. He holds engineering degrees from Georgia Tech and the Technical University of Denmark. Outside work, he’s an ultramarathon runner and Eagle Scout, known for his dedication, versatility, and inspiring career journey. Links: Nikolaj Kloch - LinkedIn Thrivr Design Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E17 Scott Putnam | Invention, Licensing, and Venturing 48:11

6 weeks ago48:11

48:11

Send us a text Join Aaron Moncur as he interviews Scott Putnam, an expert in guiding inventors through the complex journey of bringing products to market. Scott shares insights from his 15+ years of experience coaching over 500 inventors, discussing strategies for product development, licensing, and successful commercialization. Main Topics: Challenges Engineers Face in Marketing Products Licensing vs. Venturing Product Strategies Intellectual Property Considerations Market Research Techniques Effective Product Pitch Strategies About the guest: Scott Putnam is a leading product development and licensing expert, known for helping inventors bring their ideas to market. As founder and CEO of Inventor's Edge, he provides coaching, courses, and community support tailored to inventors. With degrees in education and business and experience as a coach and instructor, Scott blends academic insight with practical guidance. He’s the inventor of the Swat-N-Scoop and a contributor to Entrepreneur.com, sharing advice on licensing and innovation. He also hosts the Inventor’s Edge Podcast, where he interviews industry professionals and offers insights for aspiring inventors. Based in Dubuque, Iowa, he advocates for wellness and balanced living while continuing to mentor inventors worldwide. Links: Scott Putnam LinkedIn Inventor's Edge - Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E16 Jake Kennington | Engineer Yourself First, Personal Reflection, & Accepting Change 55:35

7 weeks ago55:35

55:35

Send us a text Jake Kennington shares his transformative journey from structural engineering to personal development coaching, discussing how engineers can build meaningful lives without sacrificing their careers. He explores the importance of personal growth, embracing change, and developing a strong personal foundation. Main Topics: Transitioning from Structural Engineering to Personal Coaching The "Strong Column, Weak Beam" Life Philosophy Importance of Personal Development for Engineers Overcoming Creative Voids in Engineering Careers Practical Strategies for Personal Growth Embracing Change and Finding Purpose About the guest: Jake Kennington is a structural engineer, author, speaker, and transformational coach who helps engineering leaders and business owners build fulfilling careers without burnout. With over a decade of experience, he founded Human Engineer Coach to guide professionals in aligning their work with personal well-being. His message: success doesn’t have to come at the cost of health, relationships, or purpose—you can have both money and meaning. In his SEAU talk, “Engineer Yourself First,” Jake uses the structural principle of strong columns and weak beams to emphasize that personal growth must come before career growth to avoid collapse. He especially supports engineers in their first 7–10 years, a time often marked by self-sacrifice. Beyond coaching, Jake also champions creativity and continual self-expression, exemplified by his self-published children’s book in 2023. His work blends technical insight with a human-centered approach to leadership and life. Links: Jake Kennington - LinkedIn Human Engineer Coach Website Engineering Challenge 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E15 Too Tall Toby | CAD Best Practices, Speed Modeling, & Gamification 1:04:05

8 weeks ago1:04:05

1:04:05

Send us a text Join Aaron Moncur as he interviews Toby Schnaars, a CAD expert who has revolutionized learning 3D modeling through gamification. With nearly three decades of experience in tech support and training, Toby shares insights on CAD best practices, speed modeling, and his innovative platform that makes learning CAD fun and engaging. Main Topics: CAD Best Practices Gamification of CAD Learning CAD vs. CAD Tournaments Community Building in Engineering Education Speed Modeling Techniques About the guest: Toby Schnaars, known as Too Tall Toby, is a leading figure in the 3D CAD world. Starting his journey in 1996 with CADKEY 7, he built his expertise through thousands of SOLIDWORKS support cases and over 200 training classes while working at top resellers. In 2018, he joined Dassault Systèmes, where he led global training initiatives and helped launch major programs like the 3DEXPERIENCE WORKS Partners Webinar Series and SOLIDWORKS Live Design. In 2022, Toby founded TooTallToby, a platform that brings gamification to CAD education through tournaments and challenges. His innovative, community-driven approach makes learning CAD engaging and accessible for engineers of all levels. Toby’s mission is to make engineering education exciting, inclusive, and fun. Links: Toby Schnaars - LinkedIn TooTallToby Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E14 Russ Aldridge | Robot Cinematography, 16-day Ventilators, & Identifying the REAL problem 47:48

9 weeks ago47:48

47:48

Send us a text This episode is a re-run from season 1 Russ Aldridge shares his entrepreneurial journey of founding Sisu, a mechanical engineering company that designs innovative robotic solutions. From creating a revolutionary knife-sharpening robot to developing a game-changing cinematography robot arm and rapidly producing ventilators during the COVID-19 pandemic, Russ demonstrates the power of creative problem-solving and team collaboration. Main Topics: Origin of Sisu and its unique name Innovative robotic solutions for industrial and creative industries Developing a robot arm for cinematography Rapid ventilator production during the COVID-19 pandemic Building a collaborative and flat organizational culture About the guest: Russ Aldridge and cofounder Marc Christenson started Sisu in 2010 as an integrator for their former employer NI (National Instruments). They have expanded the company far beyond just NI and now serve a wide variety of industries, developing highly sophisticated robotic & automated applications. Their team’s skill and ingenuity are matched by their incredible dedication to serving the customer—case in point: team Sisu went from concept to 100 fully functioning ventilators in just 2 weeks to meet the massive need brought on by COVID. Links: Russ Aldridge - LinkedIn Marc Christenson - LinkedIn SISU Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E13 Geoffrey Huber | Bespoke Ladders, Communicating Through Drawing, & Having a Big Customer 44:53

10 weeks ago44:53

44:53

Send us a text Geoffrey Huber shares his journey from art school to industrial design, discussing his expertise in creating custom access and safety equipment for industries like aerospace, aviation, and manufacturing. He reveals insights into building a successful custom manufacturing business and the importance of hands-on experience in engineering. Main Topics: Transitioning from art to industrial design Building a custom equipment manufacturing department Developing innovative safety and access solutions Challenges of scaling a small business Importance of hands-on manufacturing experience About the guest: Geoffrey Huber is an experienced industrial designer and entrepreneur with over 20 years of expertise in safety and access solutions. As Co-Owner and Manager of SAFE-T-FAB, he leads the design and production of innovative, code-compliant fall protection systems, ensuring rapid delivery and market leadership. He also operates GAH Enterprises LLC, a consulting firm focused on product design, prototyping, and engineering solutions. Previously, he held leadership roles at Ortho-tag, Inc. and Tri-Arc Manufacturing, Inc. Geoffrey holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design from The Art Institutes and is recognized for his commitment to efficiency, innovation, and excellence in the industry. Links: Geoffrey Huber - LinkedIn Industrial Products Website SAFE-T-FAB Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E12 Greg Mark | Founding Markforged & Backflip.ai 55:34

11 weeks ago55:34

55:34

Send us a text In this fascinating episode of Being an Engineer, our host Aaron Moncur sits down with Greg Mark, a visionary entrepreneur who revolutionized 3D printing with Markforged and is now transforming design workflows with his AI company, Backflip. Greg shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, technological innovations, and the power of persistence. Main Topics: The origin story of Markforged and carbon fiber 3D printing Innovative design principles in manufacturing Backflip's AI-driven approach to converting 3D scans to CAD models Entrepreneurship, product development, and market strategy The importance of reliability and focusing on core product features About the guest: Greg Mark is a trailblazer in engineering and entrepreneurship, renowned for pioneering innovations that push the boundaries of technology. Currently serving as the Founder and CEO of Backflip, Greg is transforming how we create beautiful, functional objects using AI in a world that is inherently 3D. His latest venture follows a series of impactful contributions to engineering and manufacturing, most notably as the founder of Markforged. There, he invented carbon fiber and mixed metal 3D printing, a technology now deployed globally, including on the International Space Station and by major players like BMW and Tesla. An MIT-trained engineer with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aeronautics and astronautics, Greg’s journey started with bold ventures such as Aeromotions, a company that brought high-performance aerodynamics to the fastest cars on the track. His leadership at Genasun redefined off-grid solar power with advanced electronics, and as an advisor to startups like Genesis Therapeutics and Rotor Technologies, Greg continues to mentor innovators tackling the toughest challenges in industries from drug discovery to remote flight. Links: Greg Mark - LInkedIn Markforged Website B ackflip.ai Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E11 Jon Lowy | Sleeping 3 Hours Per Day & Additive Manufacturing X.0 1:03:52

12 weeks ago1:03:52

1:03:52

Send us a text In this engaging podcast episode, Jon Lowy shares his remarkable engineering journey, discussing everything from medical robotics to teaching, entrepreneurship, and his unique perspectives on design, communication, and innovation. Main Topics: Engineering Career Evolution Design for Manufacturing (DFM) Challenges in Additive Manufacturing Entrepreneurial Experiences Communication and Teaching Strategies Personal Growth and Adaptability About the guest: Jonathan Lowy is a seasoned product engineer with over 40 years of experience in product design and manufacturing. Specializing in Design for Manufacturing (DFM), he emphasizes collaboration between design and production teams to create high-quality, efficient products. Jon has also served as a STEM teacher, mentoring future engineers and sharing his expertise. Currently, he partners with Jiga to enhance custom manufacturing supply chains and help engineers build smarter solutions. His wealth of experience makes him a valuable resource in the field of product development and manufacturing. Links: Jon Lowy - LinkedIn Jiga Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E10 Clint Biggs | Sales Engineering, Relationships, & Earning Potential 40:03

13 weeks ago40:03

40:03

Send us a text In this insightful episode, Clint Biggs shares his extensive experience in test engineering sales, discussing the critical intersection of technical expertise and customer relationships. With over 30 years in the industry, Clint provides valuable insights into sales engineering, team collaboration, and career development for engineers. Main Topics: Test Engineering Across Industries Sales and Engineering Collaboration Building Professional Relationships Sales Engineer Compensation and Incentives Effective Communication Strategies Value-Based Service Delivery Clint Biggs is the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Testeract, a company specializing in automated test systems. Since March 2023, he has driven revenue and market growth, notably overseeing the merger of SOLUbit into Testeract. Previously, as President of SOLUbit, Inc. (October 2015 – May 2024), Clint led significant growth, expanding the team and tripling revenue. The company served industry leaders like Agilent Technologies and Intel, providing solutions across mechanical, electrical, and software engineering disciplines. At National Instruments, Clint held leadership roles over a 23-year tenure, including Principal of Key Accounts & Sales Excellence and Department Manager for Americas Services & Support, where he led over 250 engineering professionals. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Park University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Clint is recognized for his leadership development, strategic growth, and aligning engineering with market needs. Links: Clint Biggs - LinkedIn Testeract Website 🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀 PDX 2025 is the Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building , cutting-edge tools , and real-world solutions. 📅 October 21-22, 2025 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025 Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. About Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. 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 such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us…

Being an Engineer

1
S6E9 Noah Burk | Asking Good Questions, RCM, & Macros 48:36

14 weeks ago48:36