The Best Skills Engineers Need for Global Engineering Success – Ep 264

June 12, 2024

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In this episode, I talk with Clint Steele, RPEng (Mech), senior mechanical engineer at Cylite, about how engineers can develop the core skills for global engineering success and how different backgrounds affect engineering practice.

***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***

Engineering Quotes:

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Clint:

What inspired you to write your book “Global Engineering,” and what message do you hope engineers will take from it?
How can engineers ready themselves for promotions like project management and stay updated on the new role’s requirements?
How can you enhance your skills in problem framing, systemic thinking, and effective application of first principles?
Do you think problem framing, systemic thinking, or applying first principles is more crucial, or does it vary by situation?
What are the typical challenges engineers should consider when aspiring to become global engineers?
Why is it crucial for individuals to take control of their development as they move from school to work, where learning may differ from expectations?
Can you give an intriguing example of how someone’s background affects how they practice engineering?
What are some practical steps engineers can take to collaborate more effectively with teams from diverse backgrounds?
What skills or mindsets do you believe are crucial for engineers aiming to work internationally?
Is flexibility crucial for engineers, not just internationally, but also in dealing with diverse regulations and clients, allowing for professional growth?
How do you envision artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning shaping the future of engineering, particularly on a global scale?
Do engineers need to understand AI and machine learning fundamentals as these technologies shape the industry?
What’s your final advice for engineers aiming to expand their horizons and thrive in the global engineering arena?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About the Skills Engineers Need for Global Engineering Success:

The inspiration for “Global Engineering” came from observing how engineers from diverse backgrounds collaborated in China. The message is that engineers can take control of their professional development by understanding and applying the principles of excellent engineering, regardless of their circumstances.
Engineers can prepare for promotions by mastering problem framing, systemic thinking, and first principles. These skills help them adapt to new roles and stay current with their responsibilities.
Enhance problem framing by questioning your initial views and considering alternatives. Improve systemic thinking by consulting diverse perspectives and apply first principles by using solid data to justify decisions.
The importance of problem framing, systemic thinking, and applying first principles varies by situation. Engineers should assess each scenario individually to determine which approach is most effective.
Typical challenges for engineers aiming to work globally include understanding universal principles, finding mentors, and embracing change. But with determination and available resources, they can overcome these obstacles and succeed on a global scale.
Taking control of your development as you transition from school to work is crucial because the learning environment may not meet your expectations. By actively seeking resources and reflecting on experiences, you can adapt and grow effectively in your professional journey.
Chinese engineers transitioning from a factory-like setting to a Western company environment showcased how organizational culture overrides cultural background in shaping engineering practices, highlighting the significant influence of workplace environment on engineers’ approaches.
To collaborate effectively with diverse teams, engineers should ensure everyone grasps the context and priorities. Asking clarifying questions and presenting scenarios align perspectives and promote effective teamwork among individuals from various backgrounds.
For engineers aiming to work internationally, understanding fundamental principles like systemic thinking and first principles is crucial. This knowledge enables flexibility and openness to diverse perspectives, facilitating effective collaboration across different cultural contexts.
Flexibility is key for engineers, aiding not just in international work but also in handling diverse regulations and clients, promoting professional growth by adapting to different contexts.
AI and machine learning will transform engineering globally by enabling direct communication between engineers worldwide and automating tasks like simulation setup and drawing, enhancing efficiency and problem-solving capabilities.
As AI and machine learning shape the industry, engineers must understand their fundamentals to ensure accuracy and reliability in results. This knowledge enables effective utilization and verification of outputs.
To excel in global engineering, prioritize understanding fundamental principles and acknowledge the spectrum of possibilities. This flexibility enables informed decision-making tailored to diverse contexts, leading to success in navigating global challenges.

More Details in This Episode…

About Clint Steele, RPEng (Mech)

Clint Steele, RPEng (Mech), is a seasoned senior mechanical engineer at Cylite, where he has been working since May 2022. Alongside his engineering role, Clint is an adviser on business strategy, education content, AI, and ML Strategy for HealthAide, a position he’s held since September 2019.

Clint holds a specialization in Optical Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder and boasts a distinguished academic background from Swinburne University of Technology. He earned his bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, followed by a master’s in Entrepreneurship and a Ph.D. in Probabilistic Design.

With a passion for innovation and a diverse skill set in engineering, business, and technology, Clint brings a wealth of expertise to his professional endeavors.

About the Host: K. James Taylor, Jr., P.E.

K. James Taylor, Jr., P.E., is a licensed professional engineer and an associate vice president at Verdantas, an emerging environmental, engineering, and technical consulting company with a green, sustainable, and people-first approach in the foreground. James has over 17 years of experience in civil engineering in the land development and municipal fields. Land development services include the design of subdivisions and site plans for compliance with local codes and ordinances, civil/site engineering, stormwater management, road design, and utility design. James has served as a project manager since 2018. In 2021, James was recognized with the Outstanding Project Manager Award at Duffield Associates (now Verdantas) for outstanding performance as a project manager and his consistent display of leadership traits valued by the company, including scheduling, management, proactive communication, collaboration, responsiveness, and client-focused service.

James was selected as the 2021 Young Engineer of the Year by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Delaware Section, and served as the President of the Delaware Engineering Society and the New Professionals Director on the NSPE Board of Directors from 2021-2023.