Momentum - March 2018 - 24

CAREER PATH

HELP YOURSELF BY HELPING OTHERS
In the field of engineering, we like to use logic.
I believe that logic encompasses more than just the things that add
up or that make perfect sense. It also includes concepts that appear
paradoxical or counterintuitive, but are still true.
Would you believe me if I told you that one of the surest ways to
obtain long-term career success is to forget yourself and instead put all
of your efforts into helping others around you?
Recently, a student came to me with a concern that he was doing
more than his fair share of work on a group lab project. He wanted to
ensure that I was aware of how productive he was in comparison to his
"underperforming" teammates. To him, it seemed likely that everyone
else would get some of the credit for his efforts, and he didn't like that.
This was not the first time that I've heard this type of complaint from a
student. However, it was the first time that I offered this counterintuitive
advice: I asked him to stop worrying about getting the recognition he
felt he deserved and to focus his efforts on "clearing paths" for the other
members of his team so that they can be successful.
To make a long story short, this team was very successful, and this
particular student became one of the most valued members. The team
jelled and each individual contributed their unique and best efforts to
the project. A few months later, while away at a co-op, this same student
wrote to tell me that this technique was working for him in the corporate
world, too.
People who work only for themselves will find themselves alone-
perhaps accomplishing some of their own goals, but still a member of a
fragmented and floundering group.
It may be difficult to step out of the spotlight and let others share the
credit and praise, but the people around you are smarter than you think.
They recognize instinctively when someone else has helped to make them
successful, and they will want more of it. They will be drawn to you.

Jutin Miller serves as advisor
for the SAE Collegiate
Chapter at Brigham Young
University-Idaho and
for the university's SAE
Supermileage team.
This concept works in teams, classes, groups, and
workplaces of all types and sizes. Build up those around
you. Don't be afraid to let others receive credit and enjoy
some success. Everyone wants to work with and for
people who augment their abilities and bring out the best
in them.
In summary, quit jockeying to advance yourself in the
eyes of others and, instead, start clearing paths for them.
It may not sound logical-but give it a try and watch to
see what happens.
By Justin Miller, part of the Automotive Engineering Technology Faculty
and Assistant Department Chair at Brigham Young University-Idaho, where
he teaches electrical and electronics systems, engine controls, and data
acquisition & analysis.

Just announced: new student scholarships-apply by March 15
In 2018, SAE International is introducing four new scholarships that will
help deserving undergraduate and post-graduate students achieve their
dreams of a career in mobility engineering.
Be sure to apply by March 15 for the following:
SAE Doctoral Engineering Scholarship (students.sae.org/scholarships/
doct_eng/)
Students pursuing doctoral studies in engineering with the intent of
pursuing a career in teaching engineering at a university are eligible
to apply for the SAE Doctoral Engineering Scholarship. Two $10,000
scholarships will be awarded each year.
Noble R. Patterson Scholarship (students.sae.org/scholarships/
patterson/)
This scholarship provides academic financial support for students
pursuing an engineering or science-related college degree. One $5,000
scholarship will be awarded.
SAE Heinz C. Prechter Automotive Excellence Scholarship (students.
sae.org/scholarships/prechter/)

24 March 2018

The SAE Heinz C. Prechter Automotive Excellence
Scholarship encourages young entrepreneurs in the
automotive industry by providing seed funds that
enable them to bring their ideas to fruition. One $10,000
scholarship will be awarded each year.
Toyota/SAE Engineering Scholarship University Kentucky
students (students.sae.org/scholarships/toyotasae/)
The Toyota/SAE Engineering Scholarship was established
by Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North
America for University of Kentucky students with the
mission of supporting and nurturing students' enthusiasm
for science and technology education, building bridges
between corporations, individuals and classrooms.
SAE will award one $2,000 scholarship each year to a
student enrolled in the University of Kentucky College of
Engineering.
Browse all scholarships at students.sae.org/scholarships.

MOMENTUM
http://students.sae.org/scholarships/doct_eng/ http://students.sae.org/scholarships/patterson/ http://students.sae.org/scholarships/prechter/ http://students.sae.org/scholarships/
Momentum - March 2018

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Momentum - March 2018
