Faces of Manufacturing 2023

Ronald Rodriguez

City / State of Residence:

Queens, N.Y.

Job Title:

Manufacturing Engineer

Company:

Designatronics: (SDP/SI)

Years with Company:

~ 4 months

Industry of Your Company:

Manufacturing / Engineering

Training / Education:

New York City College of Technology, City Tech / Mechanical Engineering

What made you decide to pursue a career in manufacturing?

My decision to pursue manufacturing was based on my desire to be able to produce parts that could be used in the real world. People's lives can be changed by many of the parts manufactured, and I believe that will have a major impact on society. Having a career in manufacturing allows me to feel that I am contributing to making the world a better place.

What does your job entail?

As a manufacturing engineer, I work with customer drawings to develop custom parts or stock parts based on their needs. If any manufacturing problems arise with dimensions or tolerances during production, I also work with team members to resolve these issues.

What is the most interesting part of your job? Your proudest moment?

One of the most interesting parts of this job is working with different well-known companies all over the world. Providing them with assistance and making them happy makes me proud of my work. I also feel a great sense of accomplishment when I finish a drawing, send it to production, and view the part once it is completed.

 

What do you love about manufacturing?

You fall in love with the process when you see how many steps are involved in the process of manufacturing a part or product. To me, working with different teams is the best part of my job. Together we create parts/products to satisfy the customers, as customer satisfaction is key.

What advice would you give to kids considering a job in manufacturing?

This is a rewarding career with many opportunities for advancement. During school, try to do internships and gain hands-on experience. That will take you a long way in the industry.

What advice would you give to manufacturers to help increase kids' interest in manufacturing as a career choice?

It's very important to invest in new technology and automation systems. The future belongs to those who embrace the latest advances in technology.