Many GenZs struggle with motivation when choosing a career in the AI era. How did you become interested in automotive and industrial lubricants?
My inquisitive nature always sought to understand the physical world around me. One day, I was lucky to discover the National Geographic docu-series about the world’s best factories. And so I followed step-by-step the process behind creating products for Ferrari, Harley-Davidson, Coca-Cola, and other renowned companies.
I had long been dreaming of the day when I would take part in the making of the world’s finest cars, trucks, and helicopters, and I am now thrilled that I can help the same manufacturers that I admired as a teenager. Some of my clients have been able to cut costs by 40-50% because they use engine oil that I recommended.
But becoming an expert in this field didn’t happen overnight: I had to study mechanical and manufacturing engineering. My journey towards this career path began during high school.
What did you need to learn, and what role does technology and innovation play in lubrication?
To attain expertise in automotive and industrial lubricants, I delved into the science behind manufacturing, which encompasses understanding friction in a production line.
As a graduate research assistant at the University of Texas, I applied a neural network to predict tool wear and surface roughness for various materials under different cutting conditions. Utilizing this predictive analysis, industries can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve energy efficiency.
My predictions boasted a remarkable 99% accuracy. Artificial intelligence is undeniably a revolutionary tool in manufacturing, and I am pleased to have been at the forefront of this research.
What serves as a daily source of inspiration for you?
The potential of the manufacturers we collaborate with is a constant source of inspiration. Some of them work in the developing world, where cost efficiency is paramount. Others are based here in the U.S., grappling with the challenge of selecting the right oil for their engines due to a lack of familiarity with lubricant properties.
I am motivated by the pursuit of solutions to complex problems in business. Naturally, this involves collecting substantial data and measurements to make well-informed decisions when contemplating a switch to a different type of engine oil.
What distinguishes the various types of oils, and could you share a project where you contributed to enhancing productivity?
We often advocate for premium oils due to their superior engine protection capabilities. Since low-grade oils are less refined, they won’t deliver the same level of performance.
One example is our collaboration with a glass factory that was using lower-quality oils with high oxidation levels that led to frequent replacements. Cheaper oils result in high oxidation, nitration levels and also increase greenhouse gas emissions.
These frequent oil changes led to production halts, causing prolonged downtime. This issue only grew worse, resulting in damage to engine parts, which in turn incurred significant replacement costs.
We conducted an oil analysis aimed at reducing downtime, prolonging oil change intervals, and cutting labor expenses. As a result, I was able to recommend a better oil option.
What’s the role of engine oil in promoting sustainability in manufacturing?
Manufacturers can significantly contribute to a more sustainable future by selecting and using environmentally friendly engine oils. Premium engine oils help optimize energy efficiency, reduce emissions, minimize waste, and more.
As an expert in lubrication technology, I hope to integrate more sustainable and environmentally friendly engine oils into manufacturing processes worldwide.
This includes bio-based oils and alternative lubrication solutions that prioritize both performance and the environment. My mission is to contribute to the shift towards sustainability in manufacturing.