Senior Engineer, Westinghouse Electric Company

My name is Jason Burr. I graduated from University of Michigan, with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, and from University of Illinois, with a Masters in Mechanical Engineering.

Getting Started in Engineering
Initially, I entered the Engineering school at the University of Michigan thinking I would never work as an engineer. I thought I would go on to law school or some other career. I only viewed engineering as a solid background to another career. My first internship came from sending out resumes to local companies at the end of my first year of college, and I was fortunate enough to gain internship experience for several subsequent summers. It was not until I progressed through study and internship opportunities in both the industrial and automotive fields that I realized engineering had much more to offer as a career. The career center at my college was helpful in finding later opportunities.

My current position is my first permanent position as an engineer. I am with the Nuclear Component Engineering group within Westinghouse. In this role I have been given the chance to develop and validate the thermal-hydraulic performance of the steam generators for the AP1000, a next-generation nuclear power plant with passive safety features. This makes use of my background in two-phase flow research in graduate school, as well as requiring planning and leadership skills to help direct a multi-million dollar effort.

Lessons and Disappointments
My biggest lesson learned thus far is that in the “real world,” complex tasks require much more time and resources than I thought they would. One significant challenge I faced early on was to replace a retired co-worker in my area. This meant I had to do extra background research in particular areas of concern, so that I could discuss these topics with authority, and increase co-worker and customer confidence in my abilities.

I have definitely had some disappointments along the way. One of the benefits of school and work experiences is finding out what type of career you are NOT suited for. Those opportunities should be seen as learning experiences. One illustration of this point was being the top-rated intern within my division of a large company prior to my senior year, yet not getting a job offer from that. While it was frustrating at the time, I look back now and would not change a thing.

My Connection to Engineering
I feel as though I have found my niche. I see engineering as a passion.  There are days when it may seem like a grind, but more frequently I really feel that I am doing what I want to do. To me the best part about engineering is the satisfaction of getting something done - and done well. Within the next five years I would like to explore some new challenges in related fields, and ultimately be in a position to direct projects that are broader and multi-disciplinary in scope.

Outside Engineering
One way that I put my engineering skills and degree to work outside my job is working with an outreach program through my company. The program facilitates presentations in local schools on science and math and careers in engineering in general, and on nuclear power in particular.

I also enjoy sports and exercise, spending time with friends and family, and participating in religious activities. Although it is definitely a challenge finding time for all the things I would like to do in a given day, one key is to set aside specific time for each relaxing activity. Another important way to achieve a balance between work and my private life is to find activities that are just as engaging and challenging as my Engineering work. Our time is our most precious personal resource, and I think it is appropriate to use tools to manage that resource – so long as friends and family are not made to feel like they are an engineering project!

Final Thoughts
With respect to a career in Engineering, I think three factors are crucial: Educate yourself on your field or industry, take advantage of learning opportunities through mentors, and champion yourself within your organization. Professional societies can be great help with the first two points, and those concepts will help create a foundation from which to build your success. It might be difficult to stay humble while promoting your abilities, but chances are no one else will be acting to else will be acting to develop you skills or find activities to challenge and reward you. You have to be your best advocate.