As Purdue Polytechnic’s May 2017 graduates move into their careers, we are profiling a few and finding out their future plans and how they arrived at this point in their lives.
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Joshua Nelson, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Presales Engineer for Motorola Solutions in Chicago, IL
Education
Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology with minors in supply chain management technology and communication from the Brian Lamb School of Communication
Job duties
Presales engineering is a great fit for me. It requires both an engineering background and business acumen. I will be responsible for designing and overseeing the implementation of our mission-critical communications solutions throughout the Midwest region. This includes radio coverage design and analysis, calculating power and networking requirements, providing consultative guidance to customers and sales teams, and participating in proposal reviews and contract negotiations.
Purdue classes that helped Joshua prepare for his job
I have always seen myself working in the telecommunications industry. ECET 32400 (Fundementals of Electromagnetics) and ECET 424 (Wireless Systems: Design and Measurement) were two classes that I really enjoyed. The courses gave me experience in measuring RF signals and designing RF circuits. This helped prepare me for my career with Motorola Solutions.
Other ways the college and/or Purdue provided preparation and assistance
Attending Purdue Univeristy was one of the best decisions of my life. Being a Boilermaker has allowed me to take part in unique experiences that have helped me grow as a student, leader, professional, and individual. In addition, the flexibility that my plan of study offered, allowed me to complete my two minors while still graduating in four years. My minors in supply chain management technology and communication supplied me with the tools necessary to stay competitive and provide value in my role as a presales engineer.
Thanks go to:
- My entire family – For loving me and believing in my ability to be successful.
- Purdue Promise staff – For supporting me throughout my time here at Purdue University.
- Bill Caise – For a being a mentor and source of wisdom for me on campus.
- Kimber Nicoletti – For giving me flexibility as student worker and providing me opportunities to take on more responsibility at work.
- Toni Munguia – For her hard work and dedication to the Minority in Technology Association (MTA) and Technology Diversity Office.