Geoffrey applied to work at Pepperl+Fuchs USA ten years ago and has been a design engineer in process automation ever since. From conceptualization and development through to the actual execution of a product, he is involved in every step of the way.
You’re a design engineer at Pepperl+Fuchs. What exactly do you do?
Geoffrey: In my role as a design engineer at Pepperl+Fuchs, I’m involved in all stages of the product development process – from the concept of a product, development to prototyping and pilot production, and finally the series release. My tasks also include researching new materials and methods to improve older processes. Additionally, I create design specifications based on product requirements and use specific software to simulate circuits or model circuit boards. I also create testing procedures for prototypes and subsequently analyze the collected data. Product qualification and risk analysis are part of my responsibilities too. As a design engineer, I essentially merge innovation and functionality with design in a product.
CONSTANT UNPREDICTABILITY
Do you have a typical working day?
Geoffrey: Not really. My day heavily depends on which phase of the development process the product is currently in. Whether I’m focusing on hardware or software design, concept or development, testing procedures or preparing for a product handover to production, my day is always filled with a variety of tasks. This also includes answering questions from the certification and product managers or production employees. I provide guidance on the procurement of components and their shortages, maintain existing products, and carry out various product updates. Additionally, I attend various meetings to keep colleagues informed about the latest developments. Creating and maintaining documentation completes my workday, ensuring that all relevant information is transparent and accessible.
The great thing about my job is the variety of tasks. It never gets boring and I often learn new things myself.
Geoffrey, Design Engineer at Pepperl+Fuchs USA
What do you like most about your work?
Geoffrey: I like the variety involved in my job. Essentially, I follow a product from start to finish. My tasks are so varied, and I often learn new things along the way myself. I also work with a wonderful team. I enjoy getting to talk with people from other countries and different cultures. It’s always exciting to learn new things about their lifestyle and create a connection with them.
AN EYE FOR DETAIL
What characteristics should people have if they want to do this job?
Geoffrey: Attention to detail is a must. In an environment filled with complex processes and systems, even the tiniest nuances can make a big difference. Analytical thinking, determination, and persistence are also crucial, since it often takes staying power to find solutions to complex tasks. It’s important to be able to develop creative solutions, even under pressure from deadlines or with limited resources. Teamwork skills and flexibility in the face of new requirements are also important. That’s especially true with the world changing as fast as it is right now.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Geoffrey: When I was a student at the University of Toledo, I participated in a local autocross event as a member of the FSAE (Formula Society of Automotive Engineers) team and came in second in my class with my Honda Prelude. I went on to be a test driver for our motor and chassis development and competed against other schools in the endurance event in the FSAE car. After I graduated, I didn’t drive for a long time, up until there was another event in my hometown, and I entered again with my Honda. I had caught the autocross bug again! I got in touch with my old team colleagues and the members of the current team. And so, suddenly, I got the chance to buy the FSAE car from the year after I graduated. It was pretty old and needed repairs, so the team was selling it. But I’m very familiar with its design, and right now I’m tinkering with it and refining it.
And aside from your passion for autocross?
Geoffrey: I’m a fan of my kids (laughs). I like to go to their sporting events, mainly track and field and soccer, and photograph them and their teammates. I also enjoy going to their jazz band performances.
Profile
Name: Geoffrey
Occupation: Design engineer
Joined Pepperl+Fuchs: October 2014
Special skills: Combining many disciplines at once
Motto: I can only do what I can do.
Wanted to be when he grew up: First a cook, then a race car driver
