What is your job title and what does the position entail?

I am an Applications Engineer here at ACS, and what that entails is several things: proof-of-concept applications and on-site installations of Cognex vision systems. For the proof-of-concept applications, or “proveouts” as we call them, customers will come to ACS with a problem that needs solving and I will attempt to solve that problem with a variety of technologies that ACS is capable of supporting. If I am able to solve the customer’s problem, and they move forward with purchasing the necessary hardware/software then my next roll is to order the necessary equipment, then install it at the customer’s facility. Finally, I will train the customer’s on the equipment, and provide further troubleshooting assistance after installation is complete, if needed.  

How long have you been at ACS?

I have been at ACS for two and a half years, and this coming November marks my third work anniversary.

What do you like best about working at ACS so far?

I think I have two favorite aspects: learning new technologies that I feel will help to further my career for the future and using said technology for problem solving. My love of problem solving is part of what drove my career choice to be an engineer; that and my love of Battle Bots and LEGO. I also enjoy the fact that I get to work with a variety of different manufacturing companies, whose products have such a large variety that each project rarely feels the same. 

Can you tell us a little about your background and how it helps you in this position?

I have three previous positions that have helped prepare me for my role at ACS. Two of my roles involved learning and helping customers troubleshoot various types of machinery and technology; both on-site and over the phone. And my other role was at a product intelligence firm, where we tested and analyzed different customer products; for example: one project was testing drill bits to see how many holes they could drill before failing in different types of metal. These roles helped me to understand machinery, electrical drawings, mechanical drawings, problem solving and troubleshooting, as well as giving me insight to various industries and the products they produce.  

What are some key lessons you have taken from your career thus far?

I think the biggest lesson I learned in my career is to find a career path, which may include multiple jobs to find, that makes you happy. Now work happiness is subjective, but I think several questions to answer would include: does your work make you happy? Want do you want to do instead? Do you take pride in your work? Do you look forward to coming to work then next day, or dread it? Are you bored or engaged at work? Is this something that could lead you down a career path to something greater that you would enjoy doing? Answer these questions and pursue a career path you think would make you happy, and once you do find it stick with it; you will find a pride in your work and in yourself you never knew you had and that will positively impact your personal and professional life.

Describe some of your hobbies – what do you like to do outside of ACS?

I love gardening! I started gardening a few years ago, gaining inspiration from my father who has been gardening since I was a baby. I think I inherited his green thumb, because this year I planted 50 something herbs and vegetables and so far they’ve grown like wildfire. Besides gardening I enjoy cooking and learning new recipes, going to the gym, hitting my heavy bag, and playing video games when I have time.

What is one thing your customers might find surprising about you?

If it isn’t the fact that I have incredibly long hair it would be my love of classic rock; I could listen to The Eagles, Queen, Led Zeppelin and the like for days. I’m also a brown belt in Krav Maga, which is a form of self-defense from Israel.

Do you have any trips planned this year?

Well originally my wife and I had several trips planned this year, but Covid-19 cancelled many of those plans. However, for our anniversary trip this 4th of July we’re heading into the Smoky Mountains for a cabin getaway – I love the woods, going on hikes, stargazing, and just being in the mountains. We did have a New Orleans trip planned for Thanksgiving, but that might get canceled as well.

What’s your favorite place in or near Marietta/Atlanta?

I love going to Dave & Busters in Marietta is always a good time for me. My wife and I will go after work sometimes and play for a few hours, which is the only place where we both get very competitive. The Botanical Gardens in Atlanta is my next favorite place.