Being an Engineer

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Tessa Axsom blends deep mechanical engineering know‑how with the craft of product marketing. Today she serves as Product Marketing Manager – CNC at Fictiv, the on‑demand manufacturing partner known for its robust CNC resources and design guides. In this role, she translates shop‑floor realities into crisp messages, actionable guidance, and programs that help engineers build better parts faster. Before moving into marketing, Tessa wrote extensively for Fictiv’s Resource Center, authoring practical articles on topics like drawing best practices, corrosion vs. oxidation, and developing people skills as an engineer.

Her path began at Purdue University in mechanical engineering and wound through metallurgy and aerospace, including design of aluminum plate‑and‑fin heat exchangers and quality leadership in chemical analysis labs. That blend of materials, design, and operations experience anchors her marketing perspective in real constraints: tolerances, surface finish, manufacturability, and supplier capability—especially in CNC machining.

Beyond the written word, Tessa shows up as an educator and voice in the community. Fictiv has featured her in webinars and industry conversations, from manufacturing complex designs to commentary on timely topics. She also runs Precision Pen & Quality, where she applies engineering rigor to technical communication and consulting.

Across all of it, Tessa advocates for a simple idea: engineers who can communicate—who can frame tradeoffs, tell a crisp story, and align stakeholders—ship better products. That’s why her work on people skills for engineers resonates so strongly with our audience of builders and problem‑solvers. 

LINKS:

Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessa-axsom/

Guest website: https://www.fictiv.com/

Email: tessa.axsom@fictiv.com

Aaron Moncur, host

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the  Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

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Spencer Jones began his healthcare career as a registered nurse in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he witnessed firsthand the clinical need that sparked his first device: SafeBreak® Vascular, a patented solution to prevent IV line dislodgement. As a nursing alumnus of the University of Arkansas, Spencer led SafeBreak from idea to FDA approval in 2022, drawing on early mentorship from Innovate Arkansas and a successful accelerator experience with ZeroTo510.

In 2015 he founded Lineus Medical as co‑founder and CTO, securing multiple U.S. and international patents while raising seed and Series A funding. In 2020 he began consulting with Lapovations, the University of Arkansas‑spawned medtech startup behind AbGrab®, a suction‑based tool enabling safer and more consistent abdominal entry in laparoscopy.

Since officially joining Lapovations in October 2022, Spencer has served as CTO, VP of Sales and now CEO, leading efforts like a national sales rollout, Series A financing, SBIR IIB grant, and the Class I FDA launch of AbGrab across 18 states. Beyond product development, he’s an active mentor and ecosystem builder through XO Medtech, ComboSpine, and educational partnerships.

Spencer is passionate about democratizing clinical innovation—especially for nurses, physicians, and students—and now leverages AI tools to accelerate medtech startup growth. Recognized by Nurse.org as “Nurse Innovator of the Year,” he is a powerhouse blending clinical insight, technical execution, fundraising prowess, and ecosystem leadership.

LINKS:

Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-jones-5a008672/

Guest website: https://xomedtech.com/

Aaron Moncur, host

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the  Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Send us a text

Join us for an in-depth conversation with John Lembke, a manufacturing engineering manager with over a decade of experience in factory digitization, lean manufacturing, and ERP integrations. John shares his proven strategies for hiring high-performing engineering teams, scaling production rapidly, and building effective manufacturing processes. From his early days around ice-making machinery to leading 60% capacity increases, John offers practical insights that engineering managers and job seekers alike will find invaluable.

Main Topics:

• Hiring Best Practices: Use skill histograms to identify team gaps and write focused, targeted job descriptions.
• Interview Strategies: Ask questions that evaluate both technical skills and cultural fit.
• Common Hiring Mistakes: Avoid hiring people just like yourself and using vague or generic job descriptions.
• Candidate Advice: Use the STAR method to structure responses and present your experience clearly.
• ERP & MES Systems: Understand the role of enterprise resource planning and manufacturing execution systems in operations.
• Production Scaling: Apply practical strategies to rapidly increase production capacity.
• Manufacturing KPIs: Track key performance indicators to monitor quality and efficiency.
• Leadership Philosophy: Leverage lessons from endurance sports to build mental resilience and lead with intensity.

About the guest: John Lembke is a manufacturing and operations leader with a track record of scaling production and driving process excellence. At Scythe Robotics, he boosted production capacity by 60% in 16 months and led ERP implementation to streamline operations. Previously, as Director of Manufacturing and Scaling at Phantom Auto, he built prototype production systems and integrated advanced hardware into partner vehicles. His earlier experience at Seagate, Ensign-Bickford, and GE honed his expertise in process engineering, KPI development, and cross-functional leadership. With degrees from CU Boulder and RPI, John is committed to continuous learning, mentoring, and applying innovative approaches—balanced by a passion for backpacking and endu

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the  Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Send us a text

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Bryant Foster, a human factors expert who's worked with industry giants like Google to make complex products simpler and safer. With a background in cognitive psychology, Bryant shares insights on designing user-friendly products, from surgical systems to smart thermostats, all while keeping the end user at the center of the design process.

Main Topics:

• What drew Bryant into human factors and user experience design
• How to define and achieve simplicity in product design
• Advanced usability testing tools: eye tracking, pupilometry, and facial emotion analysis
• Why users don't always give honest feedback and how to work around it
• Providing critical design feedback without demoralizing teams
• Cost-effective approaches to human factors testing
• Safety considerations in medical device design
• Use-related risk analysis and task analysis methodologies
• Lessons learned from working at Google X
• Building successful human factors consulting teams

About the guest: Bryant Foster is the Vice President of Human Factors and User Experience at Research Collective, a user-centered research consultancy serving clients from startups to major companies like GE Healthcare, Microsoft, and Medtronic. With over a decade of experience in applied psychology and usability research, he specializes in ensuring products are safe, intuitive, and user-focused.

He holds a Master’s in Applied Psychology (Human Factors) from Arizona State University and began his career at the Cognitive Engineering Research Institute, later working at Google X as a UX researcher. At Research Collective in Tempe, Arizona, he leads a team that uses methods like ethnography, eye tracking, and biometric analysis.

In addition to his consulting work, Bryant mentors students and supports local entrepreneurs through programs like LEAP, blending scientific rigor with empathy in fields from medical devices to consumer tech.

Links:

Bryant Foster LinkedIn

Research Collective Website

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the  Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Send us a text

In this engaging episode of Being An Engineer, Josh Zarecky shares his unique journey of running an engineering business while traveling across the United States in an RV. He discusses his background in mechanical engineering, the challenges and joys of remote work, and his innovative approach to developing industrial automation solutions.

Main Topics:

• Transitioning from traditional engineering roles to entrepreneurship
• Traveling and working remotely with a family
• Developing the Flexrail: A modular industrial automation platform
• Challenges of managing a remote engineering team
• Strategies for finding a niche in engineering services

About the guest: Josh Zarecky is a mechanical engineer and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in scientific instrumentation and lab automation. After earning his degree from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, he worked at Beckman Coulter and Prosolia, leading hardware design and system automation projects. In 2019, he founded ZEDion, a company in Indiana specializing in hybrid instrumentation that integrates mechanical, electrical, and software systems for life sciences and diagnostics. Josh is also a remote work advocate, managing his company while traveling the U.S. with his family for over a year. Now based in Southern California, he continues to innovate, most recently developing the ZEDion Rail, a modular embedded control board for lab automation.

Links:

Josh Zarecky LinkedIn

ZEDion Website

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the  Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Send us a text

In this episode, Camden Shuman discusses his experiences as a co-op student at Siemens Healthineers, where he has gained valuable hands-on experience in mechanical design work. He also shares insights about his entrepreneurial venture, "The Engineering Way" newsletter, which aims to help engineering students and professionals develop their soft skills and network.

Main Topics:

• Engineering education and the challenges of transitioning from high school to college
• The difference between internships and co-ops, and the benefits of gaining real-world experience
• Camden's work at Siemens Healthineers, including his projects in mechanical design and use of CAD software
• The creation and growth of "The Engineering Way" newsletter, including marketing strategies and the importance of providing value to the community
• Time management techniques, such as using calendars, lists, and the concept of "building a second brain"
• Advice for engineering students interested in entrepreneurship and building their professional network

About the guest: Camden Shuman is a senior in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Camden has gained real world engineering experience through his co-op at Siemens Healthineers, working on pioneering molecular imaging technologies. He is also the founder of “The Engineering Way,” a newsletter dedicated to providing valuable tips and advice to engineering students and professionals. Camden's achievements include winning third place in the Vol Court pitch competition and contributing to innovative projects in medical technology and drone applications.

Links:

Camden Shuman - LinkedIn
The Engineering Way

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the  Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Send us a text

Jake shares his engineering journey, insights into technical interviews, and strategies for young engineers to succeed in the hardware industry. He discusses his experiences at companies like Tesla and Relativity Space and how he created Hardware is Hard to help mechanical engineers land top-tier jobs.

Main Topics:

• Importance of internships in engineering career development
• Technical interview preparation strategies
• Emerging trends in hardware engineering (AR/VR, robotics, US manufacturing)
• Balancing productivity and personal growth
• Building engineering resources for students and early-career professionals

About the guest: Jake Whinnery is a mechanical engineer and hardware leader at Apple, driving innovation and empowering fellow engineers. A UC Berkeley graduate (B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, minor in EECS, 2023), he has contributed to cutting-edge hardware at Tesla, Meta, Relativity Space, and NASA Ames. In 2022, he co-founded Hardware Is Hard with Wilder Buchanan, a platform supporting 13,000+ engineers with tools like interview guides and technical resources. At Apple since August 2023, Jake works on camera hardware, integrating optics, design, and manufacturing. His blend of technical excellence and community leadership makes him a rising force in hardware engineering.

LINKS:

Jake Whinnery LinkedIn

Jackson Wilder Buchanan LinkedIn

Hardware Is Hard Website

Aaron Moncur, host

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the  Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Send us a text

Joshua Tarbutton shares his journey from military service to engineering entrepreneurship, discussing how military discipline and leadership principles can transform engineering culture and workplace dynamics.

Main Topics:

• Military influence on engineering leadership
• Restoring dignity in engineering workplaces
• Creating psychological safety for engineers
• Scaling a design and fabrication company
• Navigating business challenges during COVID-19

About the guest: Joshua Tarbutton, a former U.S. Army Reserve Platoon Sergeant, transitioned from military leadership to academia, earning a PhD from Clemson and teaching engineering for nine years before founding Bravo Team in 2018. His goal: to combine technical expertise with strategic leadership and restore dignity to the engineering profession.

Bravo Team is a full-service product development firm that supports clients from idea to production, partnering with top-tier companies such as Siemens and Stanley Black & Decker. Known for rapid iteration and a maker-friendly culture, the company has grown quickly, ranking #2 on Charlotte’s Fast 50 and #489 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list with 904% growth.

Still veteran-owned and transitioning toward employee ownership, Bravo Team is recognized for innovations such as the Bravo Walk dog collar and its production of medical shields during the COVID-19 era. Joshua promotes community and team growth through events, EOS, and mentoring. He’s a licensed professional engineer and certified ScrumMaster.

Links:

Joshua Tarbutton LinkedIn

Bravo Team Website

Aaron Moncur, host

Click here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

🚀 Join Us at PDX 2025! 🚀

PDX 2025 is the  Product Development Expo designed for engineers who want hands-on training from industry experts. PDX focuses on practical skill-building, cutting-edge tools, and real-world solutions.

📅 October 21-22, 2025
 📍 Mesa Convention Center, AZ
 🔗 https://reg.eventmobi.com/product-development-expo-2025

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

Send us a text

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Then, access your 50% discount code for PDX 2025 here: https://www.thewave.engineer/product-development-expo/dfm-days/  

About Being An Engineer

The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community.

The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us