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A Students Perspective of Professional Development in Engineering Technology

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Conference

2024 ASEE North East Section

Location

Fairfield, Connecticut

Publication Date

April 19, 2024

Start Date

April 19, 2024

End Date

April 20, 2024

Page Count

7

DOI

10.18260/1-2--45753

Permanent URL

https://peer.asee.org/45753

Download Count

60

Paper Authors

biography

Caeden Robert Goodnough State University of New York, Canton

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Caeden Goodnough, growing up on my grandparents' farm, I was immersed in the world of machinery. SUNY Canton welcomed me, and has given me hands on experience that has helped me greatly. I am currently a junior in the Mechanical Engineering Tech program. Beyond classes, I co-founded three clubs, including the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, fostering a community of enthusiasts. My farm experience instilled in me a strong work ethic and problem-solving skills, shaping my academic path. Now, on the brink of my mechanical engineering career, With a blend of practical knowledge and academic foundation.

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biography

PS Dhanasekaran State University of New York, Canton

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Dr PS (Puttagounder Dhanasekaran Swaminathan) has PhD degree in mechanical engineering from Wichita State University, Wichita, KS. He is currently working as an Associate professor, at SUNY Canton, NY. He has taught, CAD/CAM, FEA, Machine design, Statics, Strength of Materials, and various courses on materials and materials selection, for both undergraduate and graduate programs. He also authored and co-authored a text book chapter and research papers on machining of composites. He has a diverse industrial experience for 27 years, in design, research and manufacturing of electro mechanical systems, such as design of various types of gear and gear boxes, antennas and light and heavy fabricated structures, for communication, TV telecast, natural disasters management and Telemedicine application. Dr PS, designed and manufactured various types of antenna’s weighing from 200 pounds to 100,000 pounds. He was also actively involved in configuring the antenna controls and selection of motor and motor controllers. Dr PS, has advised senior/capstone projects over 5 years. Has reviewed papers for ASEE, SAMPE, ASME and SME.

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Abstract

Professional development in engineering encompasses a deliberate and continuous endeavor to enhance an individual's skills, knowledge, and capabilities throughout their career. It is a structured approach focused on mastering new technologies, staying ahead of current regulations, and refining problem-solving techniques. Professional development offers more than just new skills; it can also boost job satisfaction. As engineers become more adept and self-assured, they experience greater fulfillment in their work. This, in turn, creates a more harmonious and stable work environment. Additionally, research shows that engineers engaging in ongoing professional development enjoy more significant employment opportunities. Employers value their adaptability and drive, making them highly sought-after candidates. It is pertinent to view its significance from the viewpoint of a Mechanical Engineering Technology Student at SUNY Canton; most students tend to put professional development on the back burner and focus on finishing their degree. This is a prevalent problem that students must recognize as the journey toward becoming adept engineers commences when we choose this path. In the dynamic realm of engineering, where innovation reigns supreme and solutions are crafted to improve society, personal growth is not merely significant; it is indispensable. The ever-changing landscape of the field necessitates a commitment to lifelong learning and development to ensure excellence and readiness for the challenges. This paper aims to explore the concept of professional development for achieving excellence and preparedness in the engineering world, along with strategies for effectively positioning oneself for future success. The advantages and criticality of professional development and how a student still in college can plan to take these next steps to become a complete engineer will be discussed.

Goodnough, C. R., & Dhanasekaran, P. (2024, April), A Students Perspective of Professional Development in Engineering Technology Paper presented at 2024 ASEE North East Section, Fairfield, Connecticut. 10.18260/1-2--45753

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