Jack Chalmers is a senior applications engineer here at AB Dynamics focusing on supporting our international customers, and is involved in track testing new products and software for this innovative global R&D market.
What is a typical day like for you?
My role is relatively varied but the bread and butter of my work involves support our international base of customers which includes testing facilities, universities, various automotive supplies, and just about every car company in the world. This work is heavy on problem solving and communication skills as our customers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what our systems are capable of. I am also involved in track testing for new products and software for this extremely competitive and innovative global R&D market.
What inspired you to pursue a career in Engineering?
I have always been fascinated by science, so engineering was a natural route for me to apply that interest. Another factor that appeals to me greatly is that engineering requires creativity as well as logic in order to design new products, solve problems, and rework systems.
How has your role developed over the past years?
Despite only being at AB Dynamics a relatively short amount of time, I have been given great opportunities to engage with a wide variety of projects. I have already found myself leaving customer training trips and demonstrations. AB Dynamics operates in a constantly evolving field, so the products need to be constantly developing to keep up with it. It is a very engaging challenge having to constantly learn how to utilise and troubleshoot new equipment.
What advice would you give someone who wanted a career in Engineering?
I would encourage people to follow their interests and see how engineering can tie in with them whether that means taking apart your bicycle, programming an Arduino, or even dabbling with wood work. Being able to relate theory to practical applications makes the experience much more engaging.
What has been your career highlight whilst being at AB Dynamics?
For me, my most memorable moment at AB Dynamics so far was being able to travel to Italy to run a robot demonstration for a well-known sports car manufacturer. This involved installing our driving robots into the car and performing high speed dynamic manoeuvres (all in the name of research of course!). The demonstration was successful and gave me a valuable insight into how our customers expect our products to perform.
