

Being an Engineer
Aaron Moncur
The Being An Engineer podcast is a central repository in which we collect and share industry knowledge & best practices associated with the discipline of engineering. We hope that engineers throughout the world will benefit from this content as they connect with the companies, technologies, people, resources, and opportunities that are relevant to their engineering or engineering-adjacent roles. Contact us at info@teampipeline.us. Intro and Outro music by John Martell
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 14, 2025 β’ 1h 4min
S6E11 Jon Lowy | Sleeping 3 Hours Per Day & Additive Manufacturing X.0
Send us a textIn 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 EvolutionDesign for Manufacturing (DFM)Challenges in Additive ManufacturingEntrepreneurial ExperiencesCommunication and Teaching StrategiesPersonal Growth and AdaptabilityAbout 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 - LinkedInJiga WebsiteClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. π Join Us at PDX 2025! πPDX 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.π
October 21-22, 2025 π Mesa Convention Center, AZ π https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025About 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

Mar 7, 2025 β’ 40min
S6E10 Clint Biggs | Sales Engineering, Relationships, & Earning Potential
Send us a textIn 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 IndustriesSales and Engineering CollaborationBuilding Professional RelationshipsSales Engineer Compensation and IncentivesEffective Communication StrategiesValue-Based Service DeliveryClint 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 β 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 - LinkedInTesteract WebsiteClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. π Join Us at PDX 2025! πPDX 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.π
October 21-22, 2025 π Mesa Convention Center, AZ π https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025About 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

Feb 28, 2025 β’ 49min
S6E9 Noah Burk | Asking Good Questions, RCM, & Macros
Send us a textIn this episode, Aaron Moncur sits down with Noah Burke, a certified SolidWorks professional and mechanical engineer, to explore the nuances of product design, engineering creativity, and the importance of asking the right questions. Noah shares insights from his journey at Pipeline and Colson Group, offering valuable advice for aspiring engineers.Main Topics:Transitioning from hands-on assembly to product designThe art of asking effective engineering questionsImportance of SolidWorks certificationTroubleshooting design challengesEmerging trends in 3D printing and product developmentPersonal motivation and engineering passionAbout the guest: Noah Burk is an experienced engineer with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and a Minor in Manufacturing, along with a Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) credential. He began his career at AccuBilt Automated Systems, where he contributed to drawing packages, design projects, and machine assembly. In 2022, he joined Pipeline Design & Engineering, developing advanced manufacturing processes, custom fixtures, and automated machines. Now, as a Product Design Engineer at Colson Group USA, Noah designs mobility solutions, ensuring performance, quality, and aesthetic standards. His career reflects a commitment to excellence, continuous learning, and adaptability.Links:Noah Burk - LinkedInClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. π Join Us at PDX 2025! πPDX 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.π
October 21-22, 2025 π Mesa Convention Center, AZ π https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025About 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

Feb 21, 2025 β’ 44min
S6E8 Stephen B. Johnson | Embedded Systems, Python, & Personal Engineering Projects
Send us a textIn this episode, Stephen shares his career journey, from early influences that led him to engineering to his experiences in the Marine Corps and various engineering roles. He discusses the technical challenges he faced, such as working on the Patriot 2 missile at Raytheon and the innovative solutions he implemented. Stephen also talks about his passion for personal engineering projects, including an automated sprinkler system and a home security system, and the inspiration behind these projects. He provides advice for aspiring leaders and discusses the importance of personal projects in maintaining engineering skills.Main Topics:Stephen's early influences and decision to pursue engineeringExperiences in the Marine Corps and technical challenges in the industryTransition to Surecon Corporation and personal engineering projectsDevelopment of the automated sprinkler system and home security systemAdvice for aspiring leaders and the value of personal projectsAbout the guest: Stephen Johnson's engineering journey began with his service in the United States Marine Corps from 1987 to 1992. During this time, he worked on F/A-18 airframes with VMFA-333 "Fighting Shamrocks" and served in the Marine Corps Security Forces aboard the USS Wisconsin and USS Kitty Hawk during the Gulf War. These experiences instilled in him a strong foundation in discipline and technical precision.After his military service, Stephen pursued a Bachelorβs Degree in Electrical Engineering at Purdue University, graduating in 1996. He was actively involved in Epsilon Tau Sigma, serving as Treasurer for two years. His early career included a role as a Design Engineer at Raytheon Electronic Systems, where he worked on the Patriot II Missile Systems and the Milstar Satellite Program, focusing on automatic test equipment for power systems and satellite communications.Transitioning to the embedded systems industry, Stephen joined Heurikon Corporation as a Support Engineer. The company, which later became Artesyn Technologies and was eventually acquired by Emerson Electric, provided him with opportunities to work on embedded computer boards and systems, including cPCI, cPSB, ATCA, and Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. π Join Us at PDX 2025! πPDX 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.π
October 21-22, 2025 π Mesa Convention Center, AZ π https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025About 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

Feb 14, 2025 β’ 44min
S6E7 Michael Hadley | A Thirst for Learning: Becoming An Engineer 20 years After Graduating
Send us a text*This episode is a re-runIn this episode, Aaron Moncur interviews Michael Hadley, who has a diverse background including involvement in the human development movement and serving as a business manager for Tony Robbins. Michael shares his journey back into engineering 20 years after graduating, the successes and failures he's experienced, and the lessons he's learned along the way. The conversation covers Michael's decision to pursue mechanical engineering, his unique experiences, and advice for aspiring engineers.Main Topics:Michael Hadley's background and early careerInvolvement in the human development movement and work with Tony RobbinsTransition back to engineering after 20 yearsSuccesses and failures in engineering projectsLessons learned about persistence, market fit, and continuous learningAdvice for aspiring engineers to develop a broad skillsetLinks:Michael Hadley LinkedIn Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. π Join Us at PDX 2025! πPDX 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.π
October 21-22, 2025 π Mesa Convention Center, AZ π https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025About 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

Feb 7, 2025 β’ 40min
S6E6 John Boezi | Universal Product Development Processes, Focusing on the One, & Consulting
In this discussion, John Boezi, a product development leader and mechanical engineer, shares his insights on vital documentation and universal design principles. He explores the significance of well-defined problems and effective client management. John highlights innovative prototyping techniques and the essence of building strong engineering teams. He also delves into balancing creativity with resources and maintaining motivation in the engineering field. With experience across diverse industries, his perspectives serve as a guiding light for aspiring engineers.

Jan 31, 2025 β’ 49min
S6E5 Keegan Schoch | Pro Tips on Creating an Engineering Consultancy
Send us a textIn this episode, Keegan Schoch shares his journey into engineering, the importance of soft skills, the origins and philosophy of Poindexter by Design, the tools and technologies they use, strategies for building client relationships, trends in engineering like AI integration, advice for aspiring engineering consultants, and highlights of successful projects.Main Topics:Keegan's path to becoming an engineer and the importance of soft skillsThe story behind Poindexter by Design and its unique approach to engineering servicesThe tools and technologies used by Poindexter by Design, including onshape and AI integrationStrategies for building meaningful client relationships and growing the businessTrends in engineering, such as the shift to remote work and the rise of AIAdvice for aspiring engineering consultants on starting their own businessKeegan's experiences with successful projects at Poindexter by DesignAbout the guest: Keegan Schoch is a dynamic mechanical engineer, leader, and entrepreneur, and the co-founder of Poindexter by Design, a cutting-edge engineering services company delivering on-demand mechanical engineering expertise to support innovative industries. With a career spanning nearly a decade at Aerotech, where he progressed from Mechanical Design Engineer to Mechanical Component Assembly Supervisor, Keegan honed his technical and leadership skills before launching his own venture.At Poindexter by Design, Keegan combines technical ingenuity, creativity, team building, and business acumen to help clients tackle mechanical engineering challenges with a holistic, web-based approach. His company focuses on developing meaningful partnerships and championing innovation in industries ranging from robotics to manufacturing.Keeganβs educational foundation is equally impressive, holding dual bachelorβs degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Nuclear Engineering from Penn State University. With a vision for bridging technical problem-solving with bigger-picture thinking, Keegan is an inspiring example of how engineers can impact not only products but also teams, systems, and industries.Links:Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. π Join Us at PDX 2025! πPDX 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.π
October 21-22, 2025 π Mesa Convention Center, AZ π https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025About 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

Jan 24, 2025 β’ 41min
S6E4 Steve Maxson | Catheters, Heat Shrink Tubing, & Medical Device Extrusion Technology
Send us a textIn this episode, Steve Maxson shares his insights on the world of medical extrusion technology, including trends, innovations, and the importance of regulatory compliance. He discusses his career journey, the MEDEX podcast, the Medical Processing Panel (MPP) events, and collaborations that are driving advancements in the industry.Main Topics:Steve Maxson's background and transition to medical extrusion technologyBusiness development and technical challenges in the industryTrends in medical extrusion, including thin-walled tubing and material scienceThe use of heat shrink tubing in medical devicesCollaborations and innovations, such as the Chamfr platformThe Medical Processing Panel (MPP) events and their impactBalancing innovation and regulatory complianceAdvice for young engineers entering the medical device industryAbout the guest: Steve Maxson is a distinguished figure in the medical device industry with over two decades of experience in extrusion technology and medical device manufacturing. As the owner of Maxson InSight Services, Steve offers technical solutions and consulting services, specializing in medical extruders and turnkey systems. In his role at US Extruders, he leads innovation and business development, focusing on crafting robust, customized extruders for diverse applications. Additionally, Steve is the host of the Med-Ex Podcast, where he interviews global experts in medical device contract manufacturing, sharing valuable insights into extrusion technologies, materials, processes, and broader industry trends. He also plays a pivotal role in organizing the Medical Processing Panel events, bringing together thought leaders in MedTech to discuss advancements in catheter manufacturing, silicone processing, thermoplastic processing, and more.Links:Steve Maxson - LinkedInMaxson InSight Services Website Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. π Join Us at PDX 2025! πPDX 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.π
October 21-22, 2025 π Mesa Convention Center, AZ π https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025About 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

Jan 17, 2025 β’ 51min
S6E3 Hector Amador | Semiconductors, Microprocessors, & Statistics
Send us a text In this episode, Hector Amador shares his expertise in the semiconductor industry, covering topics such as IC packaging, microchip assembly, cost optimization, emerging trends, and leadership in engineering. He provides insights into the technical skills and mindset required for success in the semiconductor field.Main Topics:Understanding IC packaging and the complexity of microchip assemblyHector's journey into the semiconductor industry and his impactful projectsCrucial technical skills for semiconductor engineers that are often overlookedStrategies for staying ahead of emerging trends in the semiconductor industryHector's approach to cost optimization and process improvementChallenges and future directions in semiconductors, including quantum computingThe importance of leadership skills and management techniques for engineersAbout the guest: Hector Amador is a seasoned semiconductor R&D professional with over 13 years of experience at Intel Corporation. He has made groundbreaking contributions to IC and packaging design, reliability, manufacturing, and supply chain optimization. Notably, Hector holds a U.S. patent for innovations in high-capacity memory packages, and he has a track record of delivering cost-saving solutions and advancing "industry-first" capabilities in IC packaging and system integration. His expertise spans IC design, design rule ownership, and high-performance packaging engineering, making him a thought leader in the semiconductor space. Hectorβs insights into the intersection of academia and industry are invaluable for aspiring engineers aiming to bridge the gap between education and real-world engineering challenges.Links:Hector Amador - LinkedIn Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. π Join Us at PDX 2025! πPDX 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.π
October 21-22, 2025 π Mesa Convention Center, AZ π https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025About 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

Jan 10, 2025 β’ 38min
S6E2 Derek Pietz | Industrial Automation, Losing A Million Dollars, & Successful Startups
Send us a textThis episode is a re-run.Derek Pietz shares his journey into engineering, his experiences founding and leading a startup called Lab to Fab, and the challenges and successes he's faced in the automation industry. He discusses the importance of teamwork, communication, and adaptability in engineering. Derek also provides insights into the trends and future of automation, as well as advice for aspiring engineers.Main Topics:Derek's path to becoming an engineer and his early entrepreneurial venturesThe founding and growth of Lab to Fab, including a dramatic week of highs and lowsBalancing career and personal life during the startup phaseInsights on engineering processes, teamwork, and overcoming challengesDerek's current role at Intuitive and the world of robotic-assisted surgeryTrends and future of automation, including the impact of AI-powered vision-guided robotsSharing success stories and lessons learned from failures in engineeringAbout the guest: Derek Pietz is the Director of Automation Equipment and Test Engineering at Intuitive, a trailblazing company at the forefront of robotic-assisted surgery. Prior to his role at Intuitive, Derek has been a part of four start-up ventures including one as a co-founder. He has built and led engineering and operations teams, designed machines, run a P/L, pitched investors, obsessed over supply chain, developed sales strategies, taught robots to make pizza and fixed customer problems.Links:Derek Pietz LinkedInIntuitive - Website 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