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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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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