Automation engineer, manufacturing advocate, tinkerer
Josh Krug has always been a big fan of tinkering and taking on cool projects. For example, while he was a student at Penn State University, he designed and built a remote-controlled snow plow.. Josh has always been interested in automation and processes, even in high school, “it is why I chose the degree that I did, which projected me into a career within the field.”
After graduating with a degree in electro-mechanical engineering technology, Josh took a position as a Solution Engineer for Phoenix Contact, a leading global manufacturer that is on a mission to empower what it calls the “All Electric Society.” Phoenix Contact is a member of CESMII, the Clean Energy Smart Manufacturing Innovation Institute.
What sets Josh apart is his proactive nature, which shines through as he is eager to contribute to every CESMII project he participates in. He takes initiative without the need for specific instructions, displaying remarkable enthusiasm and positivity. Josh consistently goes above and beyond what is expected, always striving to exceed expectations with a smile.
This inspiring energy also can be seen in Josh’s work at the Digital Foundry at New Kensington (DFNK), where he volunteers with students, those looking for a career in manufacturing, and even small manufacturing companies looking to gain specialty knowledge. DFNK is affiliated with Penn State New Kensington and is one of the Smart Manufacturing Innovation Centers sponsored by CESMII.
Stakeholders at the DFNK don’t just create knowledge and know-how. They actively share their rich industrial experiences and love of technology to develop, build, and thereby de-risk new and working manufacturing use cases. This impactful work is what makes Josh a Modern Maker.
Q&A with Josh
How did you find your way to working in advanced manufacturing?
I've always been interested in automation and processes since I was in high school. It is why I chose a degree in Electro-mechanical Engineering Technology, which projected me into this career field.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
The most challenging part of my job is also the most fun part. It is being able to come up to speed on new applications while applying the latest technologies in a manner that will be useful for the customer.
What would people be surprised to learn about manufacturing or your role in it?
I get to see a lot of various applications, and I've realized the vast amount of opportunity there is within manufacturing. Regardless of your background, there is an opportunity to get involved in manufacturing and automation.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry?
Absorb and get your hands dirty. I'm a big advocate for getting involved and doing any task that can help increase your exposure and experience within an area of interest. Listening is key. Whether it is the manager, engineer, technician, or operator, they have a ton of helpful information they are willing to share. This info not only helps you solve the problem at hand, but it also introduces you to new terminology, concepts, and ideas that help you build experience and confidence.
What makes you excited to go to work on Monday?
Cool projects, challenges that require problem-solving using new technologies, and collaborating with great people. That combination creates rewarding work that makes a positive impact, not only on my own life but hopefully on those involved directly and indirectly with the opportunity.
If you didn’t have to work, how would you spend your day?
I would spend quality time with my family. I would spend time deepening my faith. And I would get more involved with the community. Whatever time is left I'd spend doing one of my hobbies.
What hobbies make you better at your career?
Building/tinkering gives me practical knowledge for the variety of applications I encounter. It also provides me with new ideas and access to technologies that could be brought into my career.
Spending time outdoors provides me with clarity for day-to-day challenges.
And working out keeps me motivated and healthy to perform at my best.
How does the work you do impact the world?
Empowering people and companies to take advantage of automation helps drive efficiency in workflow and day-to-day operations. Automation helps cut back on energy consumption and waste. It also offers people a career path in a more technical field.
