I'm working in a niche field where we automate tasks in CAD software, which combines my background in mechanical engineering and programming. After self-learning programming at 16 and gaining a degree in mechanical engineering, I've spent a decade in the industry before recently switching to programming. However, I'm facing some very specific challenges that seem to stump most programmers, such as automating the calculation of thickness by taking random points on a surface and determining the depth until we hit air. It took me a few hours just to figure that one out! I struggle to find someone with a mix of CAD, mechanical engineering, and programming skills. The few qualified individuals I've encountered are already working at high-paying jobs in major companies, and even at $100 per hour, the talent pool online seems weak. So far, I've been hiring junior staff for the easier tasks, but I'm worried I might become a bottleneck to the company's growth. I'm seeking advice on who I should hire or train for this unique combination of skills.
5 Answers
Finding the right person for your needs might mean looking beyond traditional candidates. I’m a self-taught programmer with a math degree and skills in SolidWorks and 3D design. Roles in engineering can be hard to come by when you lack professional experience, but I believe there are many creative individuals out there eager to apply their talents in unique ways. Don't hesitate to seek out talent outside typical engineering channels!
It sounds like you need someone who can think creatively and tackle spatial problems. Basic programming can be learned, but the blend of spatial awareness, math application, and code is definitely rare and usually comes at a premium. Have you considered looking for talent in the 3D game development sector? With many layoffs in that field, you might find someone who can solve complex problems, even if they don’t have a mechanical engineering background.
I used to work as a project engineer and now I'm in enterprise development. Honestly, finding someone who enjoys both CAD and programming is indeed quite rare. If you can, aim for someone who genuinely gets what you’re trying to accomplish; that type of passion typically leads to better results.
About a decade ago, I wrote a simple game that involved finding the intersection of a line with a circle using high school algebra. It took me a while to figure that out, too! If that’s the kind of problem you want help with, you may want to connect with other developers in similar waters. Just a head's up, I’ve only ever made $63 per hour, and even then I felt overcompensated!
You're working with ray tracing concepts, which are basic but effective for your needs! Have you thought about reaching out to developers of open-source 3D applications? They might have the skill set you’re looking for. What specific tasks are you trying to automate?
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