In his own words: Thomas Anderson, Mechanical Engineer / Project Manager, Onex Inc
What or who fueled your interest in manufacturing?
Legos. I loved building and creating complex things with simple interlocking shapes. It fueled my imagination around the age of 5 years old.
What is your current role in manufacturing?
I’m a mechanical engineer and I use the principles of science and mathematics to design and build thermal manufacturing processes, specifically in metals, aerospace, energy storage, carbon, ceramics, glass, catalytics, abrasives, energy storage and investment casting markets. I help to solve thermprocess problems related to manufacturing many different products and materials.
Describe your path to get to where you are today.
I became a mechanical engineer in 2008 after graduating from Point Park University. During my junior and senior years at Point Park, I also worked full-time as an engineer and project assistant designing and building fume exhaust systems for the steel and aluminum industries. From there I continued my career designing and building large furnaces for the steel and aluminum industries all over the world. In 2016 I earned my professional engineering license. I later became a process engineer with a consulting firm where I published my first book, Engineer Your Career, dedicated to helping young engineers land the career of their dreams. Now I am a Mechanical Engineer / Project Manager with Onex.
What is your Superpower?
Solving big problems by developing manufacturing techniques, installation and operation sequences, combustion systems, and codes and standards.
Why is your role important to others – like to customers or end users?
My role is important in quality, productivity, and safety of high-temperature manufacturing. My role also allows me to help others within my team to achieve their manufacturing goals.
What do you think the future holds for your career or others you inspire?
The most important part of what I do is to pass on information, techniques, and processes to others. My goal is to help teams and companies to achieve their goals by utilizing my experiences and expertise.
