Loretta McHugh
Quality Engineer, Medical Endoscopes
Henke Sass Wolf of America

Q: When you first started your career - what was the biggest lesson learned on the job?

A: When I started my first job, I realized that I should have done a co-op or internship during college. I did not have a clear understanding of how the manufacturing environment worked, and I was surprised when I was handed a beeper and told that I was going to be on-call 24 hours a day each day the plant was open. It was difficult getting use to the 60 hour weeks and, after three years; I decided it was not the work environment I wanted to be in. In the end, I am glad I had that experience right out of college but I wish I had known better.

Q: What is the underlying foundation for career success today?

A: I believe that the key is being able to adapt to the ever-changing needs of your company. Very few people work in a position where they do just "one thing." In my current job, which is at a small company, I am the quality engineer, but on some days I am the manufacturing engineer, the stock-room clerk, or even a floor supervisor, depending on the need. This is true at larger companies as well - engineers wear several different hats and the easier you can adapt, the more successful you will be.

Q: How do you keep up-to-date within your industry?

A: I read a lot of "trade magazines" that pertain to the medical device industry and I attend local meetings of quality and regulatory professionals. I also try to attend at least one training session a year that relates to either the FDA or ISO regulations so I stay up-to-date.

Q: What advice would you give a recent engineering graduate looking for work?

A: Have a friend or mentor read your resume - it is always difficult to see how others will interpret your experience and interests. Remember that you do have your own personal network of contacts. Contact former classmates, alumni, or ASME members who work in an industry that you are interested in. They are an invaluable resource but it is sometimes hard to remember that you do have a network to draw on when looking for a job.

Q: Has your involvement in ASME changed or influenced your career path?

A: ASME may not have a direct influence on my current career, but it still has had an influence on where I am today. My network of contacts would be cut in half if I had not remained active in ASME after college. I know people from around the globe due to my involvement in ASME. I have gained most of my leadership experiences through ASME and ASME gives me opportunities to stay active in my local community. I also utilize my ASME membership to stay up-to-date on the future of the ever-growing mechanical engineering profession.