Name: Rustam Rocky Dhaliwal, M.Eng.
Job Title: Automation Engineer
Company: Teleflex Canada
Industry: Manufacturing
What I Do
I am a member of the Manufacturing Engineering department at Teleflex Canada. My work involves designing and building automated assembly equipment, production test stands, and other custom production machines.
A Day in the Life
On a typical day, I work closely with other Manufacturing and Design Engineers as well as production personnel working at the assembly level. Together we determine equipment requirements, produce project plans and cost estimates, and build and debug the equipment before releasing it to production. The pace of the work can be anywhere between leisurely and exciting depending on the deadlines trying to be met, and hours spent at work vary accordingly.
Why My Job Is Great
I love the challenge that my work provides me with and the great group of people I work with, so I enjoy coming to work. The self directed nature of my work also allows for a lot of flexibility in my schedule which is important to me.
The Downside
As with many careers, there are times that the job can become quite stressful. Learning how to deal with these situations is an important skill to develop.
Off the Job
I feel it’s important to exercise regularly, so I always make time to go to the gym or partake in various outdoor activities with friends such as hiking. Being able to spend time with friends and family has always been a priority for me, and I try to find a few times a week where I can relax with them. I’m also very fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel extensively and have gone on several amazing backpacking trips around the world.
Experiences to Learn From
Learning how to work well with others and perform strongly in group settings early in my high school years and beyond has helped me immensely with not only my academic development but my professional development as well.
The Best Part
For me, being able to combine my career with my interests in mechanical systems and passion for hands-on work is the best part about being a mechanical engineer.
My Advice to You
It’s important for one to identify the areas of academia they’re interested in before choosing a career path. A career in mechanical engineering can be a great fit if that’s where your interests lie. “Find a job you like, and you will never work a day in your life.”