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August 2013

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From:
Drew meyer <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
TechNet E-Mail Forum <[log in to unmask]>, Drew meyer <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 14 Aug 2013 11:51:35 -0500
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Hi,

I am only a tech with an Associate of Applied Science degree.  But a common theme I see here that rings true to me is that:

1. I was allowed to be curious.

2. If there was no chance of purchasing what I wanted, a fairly common event, I would locate one to repair or try to make one.  Sometimes with success and sometimes with failure.  ie wanted a fan and made one with a record player motor and fan blade from a helicopter toy.  Failures really weren't failures in that I learned from every one about materials used and the application of my ideas.

3. These conditions were tolerated remarkably well by my parents.

4. Problems were viewed as something needing a solution and if it was your problem you were the one to implement the solution or at least work out a team solution that all agreed to.

I don't think many younger folks have the real hands on experience that I had.  I know many people, my age and younger too, who see a problem complain about it but don't take a shot at solving it.  I guess I just grew up that way.

I believe the more experience you have with hands on problem solving the better you become at doing it.  Just remember that your solution isn't the only one.  Others will have viable solutions too, just different ones.
  

I really love the wisdom of Doug's first boss.  

My first boss also taught me a big lesson.  Each time he encountered a problem in my work area (Industrial Control systems repair) I was questioned why.  I answered with the reason things were at the current state.  In all cases I had tried to remedy the problem or did not know I had any recourse.  He would then provide a political push to free up materials or create an organized method to deal with the condition.  When he did so the problem always was solved and he never would see it again.  I think he did not view his roll as detailed management of his workers but as someone to enable them to do things in style he wanted and step back and let them get done.

Drew Meyer

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