Alessandro, Robotic engineer in the automotive sector

On the blog today we discover the career path of Alessandro, Robotic engineer in the automotive industry.

Hello Alessandro, can you introduce yourself in a few words?
Hi, I’m Alessandro and I have a MSc in Mechatronic Engineering and a bachelor in Computer Engineering, now I'm a robotic engineer at MCA working as a consultant for a machine tool manufacturer in the automotive sector.
Before I worked at DRAFT, a PoliTO team, and I was thesis student at PIC4SeR, a research centre for service robotics at PoliTO.
My greatest interests are robotics, controls, AI and cybersecurity; I have gained experience in these fields in study and work experiences.
My other biggest passions are observing the night sky, sports that involve exploring nature, music (I played the electric bass in a band), travel, martial arts and food.

What brought you into the engineering world? Was it something you always considered to be your professional path?
At the age of 14 I began to develop interest in computer science and especially in computer security, this led me to learn programming in C on my own and to discover the Linux world.
Given my aptitudes, I changed my studies in high school, switching to computer science. Once I graduated, I opted for engineering and not for a pure computer science course in order to develop a more versatile, complete and multidisciplinary background.

In your opinion, what are the main qualities necessary to succeed as an engineer?
Without a doubt, the three main qualities, interconnected with each other, are logic, rationality and problem solving. Curiosity, desire and ability to learn and versatility are also essentials.

How did you got in touch with MCA Italy? How did the recruitment process went?
About two weeks before graduating, I was contacted first by Francesca from HR and then by Luigi , my current business manager.
After a brief chat on the phone, I first had an interview with Luigi and then an interview with the client.

The process, which was very clear and pleasant, took place quickly within a couple of days.

What is your current project, in which industry?

At the moment I work on a Cyber Security project at my client site.

What do you like the most about your project, and what do you find challenging?

There are many things I like about this project.
From a human point of view, the relationship with the customer and with my team colleagues.

From a technical point of view, I appreciate being able to interface within an environment that perfectly connects three of my great passions, robotics, programming and IT security.

My previous knowledge has certainly been of great help to me, but it is always a pleasure to test yourself by challenging with new problems to solve.

How do you see yourself evolving within the industry, and MCA?
Right now I see MCA as the best possible springboard to the world of work. Being a consultant is very useful to gain experience, make yourself known and understand many things.

What do you appreciate the most about working at MCA?

Surely the thing I appreciate the most is the willingness that everyone at MCA always shows to meet everyone's needs or even just to answer any doubts or questions from employees, especially new hires.
It is also very pleasant to see how the company is available to create moments and events that allow you to socialize with colleagues.

Any advice for some new engineer stepping into his career ?
My advice is to undertake your professional growth path with a critical eye and awareness.
Since the interview, you must remember not to see yourself as someone who is put to the test, but as one of two entities who want to know each other better. Remember also to take advantage of this moment to understand if who is on the other side can give you what you are looking for and satisfy your professional needs.
Doing what we like is certainly the most important thing, but finding a pleasant working environment is also essential.