

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

Jun 14, 2024 โข 43min
S5E24 Dion Lopes | Manufacturing processes & Implementing New Technologies
Send us a textIn this episode, we delve into Dion's remarkable journey in medical device manufacturing. We explore his wealth of experience and expertise, spanning crucial aspects such as product development, regulatory submissions, and the implementation of various manufacturing technologies.Main Topics:Pneumatic welding process challenges and qualificationsBest practices for developing and optimizing nitinol welding processes Experience overcoming a tough FDA regulatory hurdlePrinciples for mentorship, failure, and learning in engineeringEvaluating and implementing new technologiesSkills required for today's manufacturing engineersAbout the guest: Dion Lopes is an accomplished engineering leader with a deep track record in the medical device industry. Dion's career highlights include key roles at several top organizations, such as Director of Manufacturing Engineering at Imperative Care, Senior Manager of Manufacturing and Production at Intersect ENT (now part of Medtronic), and various leadership positions at PneumRx and Ortho Clinical Diagnostics. Links:Dion Lopes - LinkedIn Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. ๐ Join Us at PDX 2025! ๐PDX 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.๐
October 21-22, 2025 ๐ Mesa Convention Center, AZ ๐ 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

Jun 7, 2024 โข 57min
S5E23 Jim Cuseo | Defining Requirements, Developing MacBook Pro, & Leading Large Engineering Teams
Send us a textThe episode discusses Jim Cuseo's engineering journey and lessons learned over his career. He shares insights on defining requirements, developing complex products, scaling operations, and leading large teams.Main Topics:Defining clear product requirementsDeveloping subsystems while considering broader context Accelerating engineering through effective processesCommon mistakes and how to avoid themEmerging technologies impacting designAbout the guest: Jim Cuseo is a seasoned mechanical engineer whose remarkable career has spanned over two decades, influencing the design of some of the most iconic technology products. James's journey began at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology and led him through pivotal roles at Ford, Exponent, and MagCanica, where he honed his skills in the motorsport and aerospace sectors. Next, Jim spent over a decade at Apple, where he grew to Director of Mac Product Design, overseeing the development of groundbreaking products such as the 16โ MacBook Pro and the iMac with Retina Displays. Currently, he offers his expertise to various companies through his consultancy, Jim Cuseo, LLC, aiding them in scaling operations and enhancing product designs. Links:James Cuseo - LinkedInClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. ๐ Join Us at PDX 2025! ๐PDX 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.๐
October 21-22, 2025 ๐ Mesa Convention Center, AZ ๐ 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

May 31, 2024 โข 1h 6min
S5E22 James Trevelyan | What Research Tells Us Is The Most Important Quality of Engineers
Send us a textWelcome to another episode of the Being An Engineer podcast. Today, we're excited to host James Trevelyan. James shares insights from his extensive research and experience on effective collaboration, cultural differences in engineering practice, value creation, and accelerating engineering development through experimentation. Main Topics:Engineering collaboration skillsCommunication vs emailCultural impacts on innovationProject failures due to collaboration issuesImproving listening skillsTraining prioritiesCreating value for clients.About the guest: James Trevelyan, is a renowned engineer whose career spans significant contributions to both academia and industry. James's work has profoundly impacted practical engineering applications and education, notably in areas of robotics and automation. His extensive research and development projects have pioneered technological advancements and provided critical insights into engineering practice. With a focus on enhancing the utility of engineering work and its recognition in society, James offers invaluable perspectives on navigating and succeeding in the engineering world.Links:James Trevelyan LinkedInWebsiteBookClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. ๐ Join Us at PDX 2025! ๐PDX 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.๐
October 21-22, 2025 ๐ Mesa Convention Center, AZ ๐ 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

May 24, 2024 โข 1h 1min
S5E21 Chris Julian | Failing Fast, Learning By Doing, & Curiosity
Send us a textChris shares his invaluable insights and experiences from his remarkable 35+ year career in medical device innovation. He discusses how he got into engineering without a formal degree, his early career path working at startups in Silicon Valley, and advice for others looking to get into engineering.Main Topics:How Chris got into engineering through curiosity and building things rather than deciding on it as a careerHis early challenges in math but passion for science and technologyHis first medical device job at a startup building test equipmentAdvice for getting into engineering without a degree by learning on the job. About the guest: Chris is an accomplished leader in the field of engineering, boasting a robust background in project management and development within the medical devices sector. His impressive career includes roles at notable companies where he has led teams through complex projects, pushing the boundaries of innovation and efficiency. As someone who's navigated the fast-evolving terrain of medical technologies, Chris brings a treasure trove of insights on career acceleration, leadership, and adapting to the technological shifts in engineering.Links:Chris Julian - LinkedInChrisโ WebsitesClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. ๐ Join Us at PDX 2025! ๐PDX 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.๐
October 21-22, 2025 ๐ Mesa Convention Center, AZ ๐ 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

May 17, 2024 โข 50min
S5E20 Francis Lacoste | Vulnerability, Psychological Safety, & Befriending Uncertainty
Former software engineer turned VPE and CTO coach, Francis Lacoste, shares insights on balancing product development and organizational growth, maintaining high performance through accountability, fostering a collaborative culture, managing stress and imposter syndrome, embracing uncertainty, and the importance of genuine listening in coaching and leadership.

May 10, 2024 โข 49min
S5E19 Krishna Raichur | The Ins & Outs of Engineering Simulation (FEA, CFD)
Send us a textAaron Moncur interviews Krishna Raichur about his journey, Krishna shares his insights into simulation technologies, the evolution of engineering tools, and the impact of digital twins and AI/ML algorithms on the industry. Main Topics:Krishna's background and journey to simulation engineeringBenefits and challenges of simulation implementation Case study on simulating blood flow in an artificial heart designStatic vs dynamic simulation, material properties and limitationsCosts of simulation software, ROI considerations and future developmentsAbout the guest: Krishna Raichur is a Principal Engineer at SimuTech Group and an Ansys Certified Elite Channel Partner. With a robust career spanning over three decades, Krishna has made significant contributions to the field of engineering simulation, technical support, and techno-marketing. His expertise in ANSYS products and his passion for educating others make him a distinguished figure in the engineering community.Links:Krishna Raichur - LinkedInSimuTech Group WebsiteClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. ๐ Join Us at PDX 2025! ๐PDX 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.๐
October 21-22, 2025 ๐ Mesa Convention Center, AZ ๐ 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

May 8, 2024 โข 13min
S5E18.5 PDX: James Rogers
Send us a textPDX offers a dynamic bootcamp-style experience tailored exclusively for engineers engaged in the design and development of hard goods products. Unlike conventional conference presentations, our interactive event fosters direct engagement between the industryโs highest-performing subject matter experts and ambitious engineers, facilitating the transfer of practical skills and knowledge across the PDX community.Participants not only benefit from invaluable insights shared by seasoned professionals but also gain access to a vibrant community of like-minded peers committed to mutual support, advancement, and inspiration. Whether you specialize in designing consumer products, developing medical devices, or creating automated machinery, the expertise and camaraderie cultivated at PDX yield tangible, real-world solutions that drive both personal career growth and substantial company success. Learn more at https://www.thewave.engineer/product-development-expo/pdx2024info/.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

May 3, 2024 โข 56min
S5E18 Joe Moak | Working at Apple, Premium Products, & Superior Project Management
Send us a textJoe Moak shares his experience with the podcast working at high-profile companies such as Apple & Sonos, and also gives us a glimpse into โthe best place he has ever workedโ (Maestro PD). Companies are always looking for those elusive โAโ players to join their teams, and it is very clear that Joe qualifies under that definition.Joe Moak earned his mechanical engineering degree at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo.To sum up, Listen to this episode to learn all these!Main Topics:Working at AppleDesigning for manufacturing toleranceProduct development challengesInterviewing techniquesDesign processes,Project management best practicesAbout the guest: Joe Moak, founder and chief engineer at Maestro PD, a product design and engineering firm. Joe also worked at Apple, Sonos, St. Jude Medical, and other companies.Links:Joe Moak - LinkedInMaestro PDClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. ๐ Join Us at PDX 2025! ๐PDX 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.๐
October 21-22, 2025 ๐ Mesa Convention Center, AZ ๐ 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

May 1, 2024 โข 10min
S5E17.5 PDX: Roger Labrecque
Send us a textPDX offers a dynamic bootcamp-style experience tailored exclusively for engineers engaged in the design and development of hard goods products. Unlike conventional conference presentations, our interactive event fosters direct engagement between the industryโs highest-performing subject matter experts and ambitious engineers, facilitating the transfer of practical skills and knowledge across the PDX community.Participants not only benefit from invaluable insights shared by seasoned professionals but also gain access to a vibrant community of like-minded peers committed to mutual support, advancement, and inspiration. Whether you specialize in designing consumer products, developing medical devices, or creating automated machinery, the expertise and camaraderie cultivated at PDX yield tangible, real-world solutions that drive both personal career growth and substantial company success. Learn more at https://www.thewave.engineer/product-development-expo/pdx2024info/.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

Apr 26, 2024 โข 48min
S5E17 Shobana Radhakrishnan | Blameless Post-Mortems, Google TV, & Engineering Leadership
Send us a textShobana discusses her remarkable engineering career journey through tech giants like Roku, Netflix, Yahoo and Symantec. She shares insights on engineering leadership, building innovative solutions, and her commitment to diversity in STEM.Main Topics:Shobana's pivotal career momentsLessons on Engineering LeadershipNavigating unknowns as lead for Netflix's House of CardsAchieving groundbreaking results through diverse teamsAbout the guest: Shobana Radhakrishnan is a distinguished figure in the engineering world with a remarkable journey through the tech landscape. As the Senior Director of Engineering at Google TV, Shobana has left her mark on industry giants like Roku, Netflix, Yahoo, and Symantec, showcasing her prowess in engineering leadership and her dedication to building innovative technology solutions. Her commitment to STEM diversity and empowering future women leaders in engineering is both inspiring and transformative. Shobana's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the importance of fostering diverse teams in achieving groundbreaking results. Join us as we delve into her insights and experiences, offering valuable lessons for engineers at all stages of their careers.Links:Shobana Radhakrishnan - LinkedInClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group. ๐ Join Us at PDX 2025! ๐PDX 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.๐
October 21-22, 2025 ๐ Mesa Convention Center, AZ ๐ 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