What is it like being in AI at an engineering company?
It is challenging at times. Mesa is well positioned to provide subject matter experts that can inform how models are built and trained but we are somewhat limited in that practice and the associated deployment of those models
Why did you choose AI?
There really wasn’t anything special about it. I wasn’t looking for a position in AI. The opportunity presented itself and I took it. I’ve always considered myself a jack of all trades master of none and this was more trade to learn.
What would you say to kids wanting to make AI/engineering their future?
Get a strong foundation in engineering and learn to solve problems first, then worry about the analytics discipline. Utilities at several conferences I’ve attended are indicating that AI/analytics team members that understand the underlying engineering for equipment purpose, capability, and selection tend to be successful in AI/analytic positions. In my own career I was an ASE certified auto mechanic, worked on engineering projects for the V2500 which powered the A320 series of commercial aircraft, and even designed a toilet seat for the 737-NG. Every project was teaching me something that is important in this field.