

Unprofessional Engineering
Unprofessional Engineering
Interested in science, technology, machinery, engineering and the history behind everyday things? Want a fast and fun way to get your kids interested in STEM? Look no further! We break down a weekly engineering topic in a way that everyone can understand and enjoy.
Twitter: @UnproEng
Instagram: Unprofessional_Engineering
Facebook: UnprofessionalEngineering
Twitter: @UnproEng
Instagram: Unprofessional_Engineering
Facebook: UnprofessionalEngineering
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 27, 2021 • 36min
History of Car Safety - Episode 271
It turns out that the first automobiles were not exactly the safest things to be motoring down the road (or what passed as roads) in. Imagine driving in a metal box, no seat belts, no air bags, no crumple zones... it doesn't paint a pretty picture! But how did these changes come about?
We looked back at the history of vehicle safety to understand where vehicles started, how they have improved over the years, and what compelling events lead to the implementation of previously unused items like safety belts, ABS, dashboards, airbags, and more.

Oct 20, 2021 • 32min
How Does Kevlar Work? - Episode 270
Kevlar is widely known for its use in "bullet proof vests," but there is a lot more to it! In addition to this life-saving use, it is used for a number of other items thanks to its high heat resistance and high tensile strength.
We looked into how Kevlar was created by Stephanie Kwolek while working at DuPont, the science behind its production, the different types of Kevlar out there, and a number of other uses including tires, tennis racket strings, and more.

Oct 13, 2021 • 35min
Companies that Built the World: ExxonMobil - Episode 269
As we continue our series on companies that built the world, we look at the history of one of the most valuable companies in the world: ExxonMobil. Known as part of "Big Oil" along with Chevron, Royal Dutch Shell, Total SE, and BP, ExxonMobil makes up a large percentage of the oil industry around the world.
In addition to the long history of Exxon, started way back with John D. Rockefeller, we also explore how Exxon has used engineering and technology to improve their techniques and keep costs down (or profits up?).
Sit back and enjoy this quick look at ExxonMobil, and learn how they grew into one of the most valuable companies in the world.

Oct 5, 2021 • 40min
How Does Drag Racing Work? - Episode 268
How exciting can driving in a straight line be? Well, when you're going over 300 miles per hour, it can get pretty intense!!
Unprofessional Engineering dug into the sport of drag racing to better understand the rules, but more importantly, to understand the engineering and technology that goes into making these some of the fastest vehicles on Earth.
Take a listen to how these drag racing vehicles can be tweaked to save a fraction of a second, making all of the difference!

Sep 29, 2021 • 39min
How Is Coke Made? - Episode 267
Coca Cola is one of the most recognizable brands across the world, and the "natural flavors" included in each bottle or can is one of the most closely kept secrets, as well.
We looked into the part that Coca Cola actually plays in the process of making this tasty treat (spoiler: it isn't a huge role), what the "brewing" process looks like, how bottling works, and some amazingly fun facts about this iconic company.
Join us for the journey from thick sugar syrup to the delicious Coke (or Diet Coke, or Coke Zero...you get it) ending up in your hand.

Sep 22, 2021 • 33min
Why Do Leaves Change Colors? - Episode 266
If you look out your window right now, you'll probably be able to see a tree of some sort out there somewhere. Depending on the time of year, it might be full of beautiful green leaves, or under the right conditions, you could be looking at a rainbow of autumn colors in front of you.
But do you know why a tree's leaves change colors? There is a lot of science that goes into this process, and the end result can vary drastically based on a number of factors.
We've looked into what causes leaves colors to change, and eventually fall to the ground (in most cases) but also what the science is behind these changes, and a few ways that you might be able to predict what colors you can expect to see this autumn.

Sep 15, 2021 • 36min
Basics of Blacksmithing - Episode 265
Blacksmithing has gone from the backbone of medieval towns to an artisan craft revitalized over the past few years. We have looked into the history of blacksmithing, from the rudimentary crafts done thousands of years ago, to the development of the first nail, and now to the modern take on this ancient profession.
In addition to the history of blacksmithing, we discuss the very basics to get you started. From equipment like the anvil, various hammers, tongs, and aprons (safety first!), to the methods and the four stages of blacksmithing: heating, holding, hitting and shaping.
Sit back and enjoy blacksmithing 101 while you daydream about what you will forge in your garage!

Sep 8, 2021 • 33min
What Is Biomedical Engineering? - Episode 264
If you want to get into engineering but don't know where to start, our "What Is" series is for you. In this episode, we focus on one of the newer engineering degrees, biomedical engineering.
A combination of biology and engineering, this is a perfect fit for someone who doesn't know if they want to be an engineer or a doctor! Sure, you don't get paid like a doctor, but you don't have to go to college for a decade either, so that's something. Plus, biomedical engineering is one of the fastest growing engineering fields, so there should be no shortage of jobs.
Take a listen and learn what a biomedical engineer does for various companies, the courses you take in school, and of course, how much you can expect to make if you land a job in this field.

Sep 1, 2021 • 39min
Cool STEM Experiments To Do at Home - Episode 263
Do you want to have some fun with your kids while teaching them something as well? You've come to the right place!
We have gathered up some of our favorite science experiments that you can do at home while teaching important STEM principles. From instant freezing water to a baking soda volcano, making your own rock candy and watching water walk, you'll have hours of fun and education that can easily be done at home. We even have a few STEM experiments that you should probably avoid.

Aug 24, 2021 • 43min
Riptide + Xometry: The Future of Battlebots - Episode 262
When two robots step into the ring, or roll in, or are placed their by their designers, one thing is for certain; only one will come out victorious!!! Unless there is a tie, then I guess neither robot wins.
That isn't the point!! The point is that there is a new contestant on Discovery's hit show Battlebots, Riptide! Not only is Riptide a force in the ring, but their engineering skills with the support of the distributed manufacturing network of Xometry and design in Autodesk Fusion 360 means they are optimized for success.
Almost all of Riptide was designed in Autodesk Fusion 360, with the parts being manufactured by Xometry with a simple click in the CAD interface. Within days, the parts arrived, ready to use. Learn not only how Xometry makes Riptide able to be updated, repaired, and modified in no time, but get the inside scoop on this fierce new competitor.