Communicate to innovate

Elyse describes her role as being a ‘problem-solver.’ In elaborating she says, “Our customers come to us with an issue or a need. We use our Bradken product knowledge and combine it with creative engineering thinking to solve the problem and meet the customers’ needs.”

People assume engineering work requires technical knowledge alone and you don’t need to be personable. Obviously, the technical expertise is invaluable. However, it’s not the only skill required to be a successful design engineer. Elyse describes the role as being an intermediary between stakeholders. “You’re talking to customers, the sales team, and the manufacturing team to bring an innovative solution to the customers’ problem. Your technical knowledge, communication, relationship building, and collaboration skills are critical in doing the job well. You need initiative and a drive to always be improving, constantly asking why we do things the way we do and how we can make better decisions and collaborate more effectively.”