Catchin’ Up With Andy

Andy has been working for MFP Automation Engineering for nearly four years as a Hydraulic Systems Engineer, and has been a hydraulic engineer for twenty years. Andy attended Muskegon Community College before transferring to Michigan Technological University, graduating in 1995 with a degree in mechanical engineering. When asked, what made him choose hydraulic systems engineering as his career, he responded “It chose me. The first company I worked for out of Michigan Tech was looking for an entry level hydraulic engineer. No one else was offering me a job, so I took it.”

A Hydraulic Systems Engineer at MFP designs and troubleshoots industrial hydraulic systems. This is in contrast to mobile hydraulic systems found on off-highway equipment, as well as the hydraulic engineering involved in the design of canals, levees and dams. In addition to designing industrial hydraulic circuits, a typical workday also includes answering phone calls from people needing help with a wide range of hydraulic issues, and lending support with departmental issues as they arise. Andy does not work in a vacuum, however. “I discovered long ago that I am not the sole source of good ideas. From system design, product selection, to fabrication and installation, I have many knowledgeable colleagues to seek help and advice from.”

So, what advice would he offer to young prospective engineers? “Seriously consider a career selling insurance. The money is better, the hours are better. Both of which give you the ability to pursue other interests. If that doesn’t convince you, then I hope you are detail oriented and want to know how things work. Take a drafting class. Pencil and paper. Get whatever shop experience you can. Above all, be considerate of others. Everyone can teach you something. You never know who might help you in your career.”

Andy and the rest of the Hydraulic Systems engineers and engineering team in general are assets to MFP and every day problem solvers. They truly know the meaning of team work and accomplishing tasks with vigor and success!