Featured Professional for August, 2008

Chris Johnson, Midlands Technical College

Class of 2005

Interviewed by Kenetta Pierce, Student Employment Services

Chris Johnson graduated from Midlands Technical College’s Engineering Transfer program in 2005. In his current position at FN Manufacturing, he serves as manufacturing engineer for barrel operations. Some of his duties include designing and specifying tooling for various metal turning and forming operations, troubleshooting malfunctioning machinery, and establishing and revising metal turning and forming processes.

Chris credits MTC for a solid foundation of core classes and small class sizes. “[Class size] was especially helpful when transferring to a university where the larger class sizes make it difficult to get extra help from professors.” Upon graduating from MTC, Chris transferred to the University of South Carolina, and majored in Mechanical Engineering. He graduated in 2007. His career path has been challenging and stressful. “Often times, it requires long hours. I knew this going into it. The most rewarding part of my profession is knowing that the products we make help protect the lives of our soldiers overseas. I take pride in the fact that FN makes the most reliable weapons for the military and police.”

Chris feels perseverance is the most important quality someone can have when considering a career in engineering. “Any field of engineering is extremely challenging and engineers are faced with substantial challenges on a daily basis. There will be times when you feel like giving up because the hours may be too long, or the goal that has been set for you may seem out of sight, but continue to strive for that goal and don’t be afraid to ask for help.” Openness to seeing another person’s point of view is also important. “Some people have different ways of looking at concepts and ideas. By learning the ways others interpret things, success in the workplace will follow.”

Chris stays focused by keeping a positive attitude towards work and colleagues, and spending time after work with his wife, Lynn, and their puppy, Spunky.