Drinks & Drones at Pendleton UAS - June 5th

Jeff Kennedy

Senior Mechanical Engineer

With over a quarter of a century in the mechanical engineering realm, I've become a seasoned navigator of the intricate pathways of product development and project management. My professional journey has been as diverse as the products I've had a hand in crafting, spanning industries from medical to consumer electronics, automotive to defense, aerospace, and beyond. You might say I've left my mark everywhere from the depths of mines to the vast expanse of outer space, and even in the everyday hustle of your neighborhood deli, where products I've designed quietly go about their tasks.

From high-precision micro-gear pumps to consumer electrical/mechanical marvels, and from intricate cable assemblies for medical ultrasound equipment to heavy-duty underground mining machinery, I've thrived on the challenge of bringing innovation to life in myriad forms. Whether it's designing parts for injection molding, precision machining, or orchestrating the assembly of complex systems, I've honed my craft with an eye for detail and a knack for problem-solving.

In my toolkit, you'll find not just technical prowess, but also the strategic finesse of a Black Belt in Design for Six Sigma. As a project manager, I've led multi-functional teams through the twists and turns of development, guiding products from their nascent ideas to full-fledged production realities.

Beyond the confines of traditional office spaces, I find solace and inspiration in the world of music. As a dedicated musician, I've discovered the rhythm and harmony of engineering, finding parallels between the precision of design and the creativity of performance. Whether it's fine-tuning a project plan or refining a musical composition, I bring passion and dedication to everything I do.

But beyond the professional realm, I'm someone who relishes the thrill of diverse challenges and the satisfaction of overcoming them. I believe in bringing not just expertise, but also enthusiasm to the table, because at the end of the day, it's not just about the products we create, but the relationships we build and the impact we leave behind. So whether it's navigating the complexities of a new project or simply enjoying a good sandwich from that local deli, I'm here to bring both expertise and a touch of levity to the journey.
Jeff Kennedy   Senior Mechanical Engineer

Questions & Answers

How do you make people laugh?

I possess a knack for infusing humor into professional settings, fostering a positive and enjoyable atmosphere among colleagues. With over a quarter of a century of experience as a senior mechanical engineer, I've honed not only my technical expertise but also my interpersonal skills. Whether it's through sharing relatable anecdotes during team meetings or using light-hearted humor to ease tension, I understand the importance of creating a supportive and enjoyable work environment. My diverse background in product development and project management has taught me the value of connecting with others on a personal level, contributing to a sense of camaraderie and collaboration within the team. I believe that laughter not only strengthens relationships but also enhances creativity and productivity in the workplace.

If you were a tool or piece of equipment, what would you be and why?

If I were a tool, I'd proudly be a pipe wrench. Just like this timeless icon of the toolbox, I embody indispensability, versatility, and enduring reliability. The pipe wrench stands as a testament to simplicity and perfection, its design unchanged for over a century, yet it remains as effective and essential as ever.

In much the same way, I bring to the table a wealth of skills and experiences that have stood the test of time. From mechanical engineering prowess to adept project management, I offer a versatile toolkit honed over years of dedication and practice.

Like the pipe wrench's unwavering grip on any task, I excel at tackling challenges head-on and finding practical solutions with ease. With my steadfast reliability and ability to adapt to any situation, I'm always ready to step up and get the job done, making me an indispensable asset in any project or endeavor.

What's your favorite productivity hack or time-saving trick?

My favorite productivity hack is recognizing where a problem may have already been solved, even if it's in a different industry or application. As a senior mechanical engineer with a diverse background, I understand the value of drawing insights and solutions from various fields. By staying open-minded and looking beyond my immediate domain, I often uncover innovative approaches and ideas that can be applied to my current challenges. This approach not only saves time and effort but also fosters creativity and encourages thinking outside the box.