Significant Career Lesson From a Senior Engineer Operations Coordination at Northeast Power Coordinating Council
Ryan, a Senior Engineer in real-time operations, emphasizes the crucial lesson of readily admitting mistakes, stating, "never be ashamed to admit when you're wrong," a vital skill in high-pressure situations demanding quick decisions and collaborative problem-solving. This humility allows for efficient correction and prevents potentially serious consequences from errors.
Problem-Solving, Teamwork, Communication, Resilience, Overcoming Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
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Traits
Ryan McSherry
Senior Engineer, Operations Coordination
Northeast Power Coordinating Council, Inc.
University of Texas Austin (2009)
University of Texas Austin (Power Systems Engineering)
Engineering - Electrical
Energy & Utilities
Operations and Project Management
Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. In real-time operations, admitting mistakes is crucial for effective problem-solving.
2. Engineers should set aside pride and admit mistakes to find the right solutions.
3. Confidence in decision-making is vital in time-sensitive operational environments
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
The biggest lesson I learned once again working in real-time operations is never be ashamed to admit when you're wrong. Raise your hand and say, "That was my mistake. That was my bad."
I think as engineers, we tend to find it difficult to admit our mistakes. But in a real-time operating environment, where you're in a supporting role, you're essentially having to make decisions and calculations and be confident in them within minutes, if not seconds.
If you make the wrong decision or a mistake in your calculation, you have to set your pride aside and admit your mistakes. This allows you and your peers to come to the right solution.