Como saí do chão de Fábrica para Projetista Mecânico - História Real!

How Felipe Transitioned from Factory Work to Engineering Projects

Introduction to Felipe's Journey

• Felipe shares his background, starting from factory work to a career in engineering projects.

• He emphasizes that this is the first time he discusses his journey on the channel, aiming to provide insights rather than just narrating his biography.

Early Career and Education

• Felipe's first job was at a supermarket cart manufacturing company, where he learned about production processes.

• He reflects on his lack of qualifications and initial indifference towards higher education while completing high school.

• Attended a technical school (Etec), which provided him access to valuable skills despite not being directly beneficial for his career.

Discovering Passion for Projects

• While working in assembly, he encountered project drawings for complex structures like hotel luggage racks.

• This experience sparked an interest in project design; he realized he could follow designs and create tangible products.

Pursuing Technical Skills

• Felipe discovered a project department within his company and learned about AutoCAD through conversations with colleagues.

• He enrolled in an AutoCAD course, motivated by curiosity and the desire to enhance his skills beyond basic knowledge.

Importance of Experimentation

• He advises others in similar situations to seek out experiences before committing long-term to a field they may not enjoy.

• Encourages connecting with peers and joining groups (like WhatsApp communities for students), emphasizing collaboration and shared learning opportunities.

Overcoming Challenges in Learning

• Discusses the importance of networking with fellow students or professionals to gain insights into engineering practices.

• Acknowledges gaps in his foundational knowledge, particularly in mathematics and technical drawing, which posed challenges when transitioning into project work.

Seizing Opportunities

• Describes how an opening arose in the projects department due to staff turnover; he took initiative by approaching management for an opportunity.

Challenges with AutoCAD Printing

Initial Struggles

• The speaker faced difficulties printing a drawing in AutoCAD, indicating a lack of familiarity with the software and its printer settings.

• Emphasizes that printing requires specific configurations, highlighting the complexity involved for users not well-versed in AutoCAD.

Transition to Pharmaceutical Industry

• After leaving the previous job, the speaker joined a pharmaceutical company, which was a significant shift from their prior experience.

• They gained corporate skills by participating in project meetings and document management within a large organization.

Building Skills and Portfolio Development

Importance of Technical Education

• While pursuing a mechanical technical course, the speaker recognized the value of having practical projects to showcase during job interviews.

• They advised others to complete detailed projects as part of their portfolio, suggesting that tangible work can enhance employability.

Active Job Seeking Strategies

• The concept of "Prospecção Ativa" (Active Prospecting) is introduced; it involves proactively seeking opportunities rather than waiting for them to come.

• The speaker stresses the importance of creating portfolios and applying learned skills practically to stand out in job applications.

Role and Responsibilities of a Designer

Multifaceted Nature of Design Work

• A designer's role is described as crucial within various departments, requiring collaboration across marketing, technical support, and production teams.

• The responsibilities include generating detailed documentation for manufacturing processes that aid different roles like welders or machinists.

Learning from Experience

• The speaker reflects on learning organizational methods from colleagues who demonstrated effective processes in their work environments.

Growth Through Experience

Project Management Evolution

• Initially taking three months to complete a machine design project illustrates early challenges faced by the speaker due to lack of experience.

• Over time, they improved efficiency significantly; what once took three months could later be completed in two weeks.

Career Insights and Personal Growth

The Importance of Documentation in Career Advancement

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of documenting projects, stating that presenting a portfolio can be a key factor in securing job opportunities.

• Despite being hired for a position requiring engineering skills he lacked, the speaker's initiative to bring tangible proof of his capabilities set him apart from other candidates.

• Reflecting on his early career, the speaker acknowledges that while he may not have been the most qualified hire, his willingness to contribute in various ways helped him grow within the company.

Strategic Approaches to Overcoming Inexperience

• The speaker discusses transforming inexperience into an advantage by showcasing a portfolio, which serves as evidence of potential contributions despite lacking formal experience.

• He advises against relying solely on hard work; instead, one should apply intelligence and strategy to achieve growth and success in their career.

Engaging with the Audience for Shared Learning

• The speaker invites viewers to share their experiences or questions in the comments section, fostering a community of learning and exchange.

• He encourages aspiring professionals to pursue education and training opportunities that will enhance their skills and marketability within their field.