Is Engineering Worth It? A Retired Soldier's Perspective

Why do some individuals choose to pursue engineering, despite the challenges and financial uncertainties? Listen to a retired soldier's journey and passion that led him from amateur radio to a fulfilling career in avionics and electromagnetic testing.

Engineering can often seem like a road less traveled, especially with the number of people choosing to avoid it due to uncertainties. However, for others, it’s a path deeply ingrained in their passion and interests. This article explores the journey of a retired soldier who discovered his love for electronics and engineering, leading to a diverse and fulfilling career in military avionics and electromagnetics.

From Amateur Radio to Electronics Repair

My story began as a teenager, when I became fascinated with amateur radio, a hobby that naturally evolved into a passion for repairing and building electronics. Curiosity was my driving force, leading me to experiment with circuits and equipment. This hands-on approach to learning often made the process of discovery easier and more enjoyable.

During my time in the Army, my early experiences in electronics repair proved invaluable. Even though I wasn’t initially skilled in electronics, my natural aptitude for problem-solving and my de facto knowledge of repairing my own electronics eventually led me to successfully test out of the basic electronics section of the Avionics course at the USAF's Fort Gordon. This experience was a testament to the power of practice and self-reliance.

Avionics Course and Career Progression

Enrolling in the Avionics course was a significant step, but it wasn’t the end of my journey. I reenlisted with the specific goal of completing this course. The challenges I faced, such as transitioning into a new course without the foundational knowledge, were daunting. However, my current knowledge and hands-on experience allowed me to surpass the expectations and achieve a high score.

One notable experience involved troubleshooting a clock radio, which taught me the importance of ambient RF noise. On a weekend inspection, when my radio stopped working, I used a screwdriver to detect noise levels, leading to a breathtaking interruption of a live AM station. This moment was a magic realization of how understanding the basics can make problem-solving seem effortless.

A Career That Feels Like Fun

My career in engineering was far from dull. I had the opportunity to work for five different corporations and three contractors over a three-decade span. The job wasn't always glamorous, but I enjoyed the variety and challenges it brought. Each role, whether in the military or at a local computer firm, provided a unique learning experience and a sense of accomplishment.

A significant milestone was my transition into the world of electromagnetic environmental testing. After securing a position with a local computer firm, I quickly got involved in the testing of equipment and systems. My work was both challenging and rewarding, especially when working on complex projects.

Reflections and Career Highlights

Throughout my career, I encountered many talented engineers, but there were a few individuals who stood out in terms of their intelligence and work ethic. One colleague, Cortland Richmond, was particularly memorable. His note to me on LinkedIn highlighted how my contributions and problem-solving skills were highly valued by my peers.

Quoting from a previous post, Cortland once wrote:

“Regardless though of the 1000 engineers I have worked with in the last 20 years, you are 1 of the few smartest engineers I have worked with! And 1 of the hardest working. When I saw your name attached to something I was working on, my thought was always 'Thank God! Cortland is on this one! A good engineer is on this one! And I will be able to get my piece done.’”

This recognition affirmed my belief that engineering is a field where hard work, knowledge, and passion can lead to success and satisfaction, even after a long service in the military and well into retirement.

For individuals who are considering a career in engineering, my message is clear: it may not always be easy, but the rewards—both personal and professional—can be substantial. Passion, intelligence, and a willingness to learn can lead to a fulfilling journey in this exciting field.