Title: Navigating the Fluid Power Industry: Insights from Tyler Merth
Introduction: Welcome to another enlightening episode of Unfiltered Flow ELSC, where we delve into the fluid power and automation industries. In this episode, host Meghann Cook and co-host Alan Burdette sit down with Tyler Merth, an application engineer at AppSco, to explore his journey into the industry, the challenges he’s faced, and the wisdom he’s gained along the way.
Section 1: The Journey Begins
Tyler’s entry into the fluid power industry is a compelling tale of discovery. Starting right after high school, he found himself working with a mobile hydraulic cooler manufacturer, Stack Incorporated. “I started out just building their hydraulic coolers,” Tyler recalls. This hands-on experience ignited his passion for the industry, leading him to pursue formal education at Hennepin Technical College, where he graduated as a certified fluid power specialist. His journey exemplifies how initial exposure can shape a career path.
Section 2: Real-World Challenges
Transitioning from classroom theory to real-world application can be daunting. Tyler shared his biggest surprise after graduating: the need to adapt to the industry’s practical realities. “In school, we had problems where we had to size componentry exactly, but in the real world, you can’t always find that exact fit,” he explains. This adaptability is crucial as engineers often need to work with available products rather than ideal specifications.
Section 3: Learning from Mistakes
Mistakes are an inevitable part of any career, and Tyler emphasizes the importance of how one responds to them. “It’s the way you combat those issues that you came across that really defines you and helps you grow as an engineer,” he states. He acknowledges that while he cannot pinpoint a single mistake that stood out, the key takeaway is to own those mistakes and learn from them. This resilience has shaped his professional outlook.
Section 4: The Role of Mentorship
Tyler credits much of his growth to a mentor, Joe Sonntag, who guided him for nearly 15 years. “He had a wealth of knowledge, and I acted like a sponge around him,” Tyler says fondly. Their relationship went beyond a typical boss-employee dynamic, highlighting the importance of mentorship in professional development. Tyler’s experience underscores the value of nurturing connections in the workplace.
Section 5: Advice for Young Engineers
For those entering the fluid power industry, Tyler offers sage advice: “Ask questions and reach out to others. That’s how you’re going to learn.” He stresses the importance of attention to detail and retaining information, as well as the significance of getting hands-on experience. “If you can design but don’t understand how to build it, you’re going to face challenges,” he warns.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways
Tyler Merth’s journey into the fluid power industry illustrates a path filled with continuous learning, adaptability, and mentorship. His insights remind us that success in engineering is not just about technical expertise but also about building relationships and learning from experiences. As the industry evolves, staying engaged and curious will be vital for both new and seasoned professionals.