In this episode of Circuit Break, hosts Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig interview Steve Furber, Professor Emeritus of Computer Engineering at the University of Manchester. They discuss his early career at Acorn Computers, the development of the BBC Micro and the ARM processor, and his work on the SpiNNaker project, which models brain functions using a million ARM processors. Furber shares insights into the challenges and successes of these projects and provides advice for aspiring engineers.

Key Discussion Points:

• Steve Furber's early career at Acorn Computers
• Development of the BBC Microcomputer
• Challenges faced in early computer development
• Design philosophy behind the ARM processor
• ARM's widespread adoption and current export restrictions
• The SpiNNaker project and its applications
• Evolution of neuromorphic computing and AI
• Personal interests and hobbies, including playing bass guitar
• Advice for aspiring engineers and future computing technologies
• Hypothetical career scenarios and advice to his younger self

Relevant Links:

• Steve Furber Wikipedia
• Steve Furber's Profile at Manchester University
• Signetics 2650
• Fruit Machine
• BBC Microcomputer
• SpiNNaker Project

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on the evolution of the ARM processor from its inception to its current applications?
• What advice would you give to young engineers interested in computer engineering today?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this special episode celebrating International Women in Engineering Day, hosts Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig are joined by Kaylan Smith, Lead Software Developer for Supply Chain and Finance at MacroFab, and Laura Manley, Product Manager for Marketplace & Factory Experience at MacroFab. They discuss their journeys into engineering, challenges faced, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the field. The episode highlights personal stories, experiences, and insights into how they navigated their careers and the future of women in engineering.

News/Announcements:

• June 23rd is International Women in Engineering Day.
• Kaylan and Laura share their professional journeys and roles at MacroFab.
• Discussion on the importance of diversity and inclusion in engineering.

Key Discussion Points:

• Kaylan and Laura’s educational backgrounds and paths to MacroFab.
• The impact of role models and mentorship in their careers.
• Challenges faced by women in engineering and how they overcame them.
• The importance of diversity and inclusion in the engineering sector.
• The role of product management and the shift from design to management.
• The differences in work culture and expectations in creative fields vs. engineering fields.
• The importance of process and validation in engineering work.
• Experiences with implicit biases and the need for more diverse role models in technology.
• The significance of having a supportive and inclusive work environment.
• Future trends and opportunities for women in engineering.
• Advice for young women aspiring to enter the engineering field.

Relevant Links:

• AnitaB.org: A global organization supporting women in technology.

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on the role of diversity and inclusion in engineering?
• How have role models or mentors influenced your career path?
• What challenges have you faced in your engineering journey and how did you overcome them?
• How do you see the future of women in engineering evolving?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.

In this episode of Circuit Break, Parker Dillmann and Stephen Kraig, along with special guests Chris Gammell and James Lewis, discuss various aspects of engineering career paths. They delve into how they chose engineering, their first jobs, reasons for changing jobs, and what being an engineer means at different career stages. They also reflect on what they wish they had known earlier in their careers and share some personal anecdotes about non-engineering jobs they've held. The discussion is rich with insights and advice for both new and experienced engineers.

Key Discussion Points:

• How the hosts and guests chose engineering as a career.
• The impact of their first jobs out of school.
• Good and bad reasons to change jobs.
• The role of mentorship and learning from senior engineers.
• Reflections on imposter syndrome and its effects.
• The importance of prioritizing tasks and learning to say no.
• Career transitions and the challenges faced.
• The influence of non-engineering jobs on their engineering careers.
• Advice on surrounding oneself with smart engineers.
• Experiences of working in different engineering roles and industries.
• The significance of having a plan and being open to change.
• The role of personality in learning from colleagues.
• Predictions and aspirations for the next five years.
• Thoughts on the evolving nature of electronics and engineering careers.

Relevant Links:

• AddOhms YouTube Channel
• Hackster.io
• The Amp Hour Podcast
• Golioth

Community Questions:

• What are your thoughts on changing jobs for career growth?
• How do you handle imposter syndrome in your engineering career?
• What non-engineering job have you had that influenced your engineering career the most?
• Where do you see your engineering career in the next five years?

MacroFab:

This show is brought to you by MacroFab, which provides a platform for electronics manufacturing services (EMS), hardware development, designing, and prototyping for individuals, startups, and businesses. Key MacroFab services include PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fabrication, assembly, and testing. Customers can use MacroFab's platform to upload their PCB designs, select components, and specify manufacturing requirements.

We Want to Hear From You!

Subscribe to Circuit Break wherever you get your podcasts! And join our online discussion hub at forum.macrofab.com to keep the conversation going with electrical engineering experts and experimenters! You can also email us at podcast@macrofab.com.