The guest has been working for 13 years in the aviation industry, specifically in the production of aircraft components. His professional background is in materials science, focusing on metal materials, which is one of the 'four major pit' disciplines (environmental, chemical, biological, and materials science).
The guest started his career in factories, initially working as a shift leader in a workshop. This role involved managing workers and handling heavy manual labor, which was physically demanding. He later transitioned to roles with less physical labor, such as process engineer and technical engineer.
The guest noted that the manufacturing industry is particularly challenging due to low profit margins and intense competition. Many companies aim to enter the capital market rather than relying solely on production profits. This often leads to smaller companies being squeezed out, as larger firms can afford to operate at a loss or break-even to dominate the market.
The guest believes that sales is one of the most critical roles in a company, often determining its success. He mentioned that sales professionals, especially those who can secure large orders, can earn significantly more than engineers or technical staff. He also noted that sales require a high level of adaptability and communication skills, which he found challenging when he briefly worked in a sales-related role.
The guest emphasized that entering the capital market is crucial for manufacturing companies to survive and thrive. He explained that companies that can access capital markets can leverage financial resources to outcompete smaller firms, even if their production operations are not highly profitable. This strategy allows them to scale and dominate the industry.
The guest worked with a team of foreign experts, primarily from Italy and Spain, during his second job. This experience helped him improve his English, particularly in writing emails and conducting conversations. He found the collaboration valuable and noted that it broadened his technical and professional skills.
The guest highlighted the dangers of working with hazardous materials, such as hydrochloric acid and potassium hydroxide, which can cause severe injuries if mishandled. He shared a personal experience where he narrowly avoided serious harm when a chemical splashed on his face. This underscored the importance of safety protocols in the manufacturing environment.
The guest explained that commercial aviation has much stricter requirements than military applications. While military products like missiles or rockets only need to function for a short period, commercial aircraft must endure tens of thousands of takeoffs and landings over several years. This makes the manufacturing and maintenance of commercial aircraft far more challenging.
The guest pointed out that logistics is a critical component of the global economy, accounting for a significant portion of GDP. He mentioned that even small improvements in logistics efficiency can lead to substantial cost savings, which is particularly important in industries like aviation where the supply chain is complex and involves numerous components.
The guest recommended a band called 'Jingdezhen Renaissance,' which is a small, independent band from Jingdezhen, China. He described their music as deeply rooted in local culture and language, and he finds their storytelling through music particularly compelling.