Young Professionals Profile: Hannah Neuffer Evans
Karl Phipps | TLT Careers April 2017
This manufacturing engineer with UTC Aerospace Systems makes products more efficient and safe.
© Can Stock Photo / jovannig
Hannah Neuffer Evans graduated from Snead State Community College with an associate’s degree in science in 2011. She then graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in polymer and fiber engineering and a minor in tribology in 2014.
Hannah is a 2013 recipient of the STLE E. Richard Booser Scholarship, which funded her research measuring the effects of various concentrations of nanoparticles on the coefficient of friction in a ball-on-disk test machine. Currently she works as a manufacturing engineer at UTC Aerospace Systems.
Hannah Neuffer Evans
TLT: What led you to apply for the STLE E. Richard Booser Scholarship?
Neuffer Evans: I first heard about the STLE scholarship from my advisor, Dr. Robert Jackson, a professor in the department of mechanical engineering and director of Auburn University’s tribology and lubrication science minor program.
While taking one of his tribology courses, an undergraduate research position became available for a friction and wear project. I immediately jumped at the opportunity to get hands-on experience in a field that I was just beginning to understand and enjoy. Dr. Jackson encouraged me to apply for the scholarship based on the extracurricular research I had volunteered for. When I was awarded the scholarship, I was thrilled that my simple desire to continue to learn was rewarded by such a prestigious technical organization as STLE.
TLT: How did receiving the STLE scholarship help with your tribology research?
Neuffer Evans: Prior to being awarded the Booser Scholarship, I had my mind made up to finish my research project. When I found out I was awarded the scholarship, I was thankful because the funding allowed me to focus more on my research and less on other financial matters upon graduating from Auburn. Also, knowing that our findings were to be published in TLT was just added motivation for me and a proud accomplishment I’ll never forget.
TLT: Why did you join STLE?
Neuffer Evans: As a student, I joined STLE to have access to member resources. I was just beginning my journey in studying tribology and wanted to stay up to date on what other industry professionals were talking about and researching. I also really enjoyed reading TLT every month because it provides the tribology and lubrication engineering communities with a platform to share new ideas and to spotlight those making a difference in the field.
TLT: What (or who) inspired your interest in studying engineering?
Neuffer Evans: I credit my family for inspiring me to go into the field of engineering. Being a third-generation engineer, I could almost say engineering was in my blood. I was exposed to engineering principles at a young age, which definitely had a significant influence on my career choice.
For example, I remember going to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center on a field trip and being so fascinated by the technological advances that I wanted to be a part of something so impressive when I grew up. I may not be working for NASA, but the fascination is still there to contribute to technological advancements. My parents were always there to encourage me with every new science project I worked on.
TLT: Tell us about your job.
Neuffer Evans: I currently work at UTC Aerospace Systems as a manufacturing engineer in the electrical-wire harness department. My role is to interpret engineering drawings and coordinate with the tooling department to translate those drawings into functional tools to build wire harnesses. I then implement standard work instructions for the operators to follow to ensure a consistent product is shipped to our customers every time.
UTC has a strong culture for continuous improvement. As a support staff member, I participate in process improvement events to drive out waste and improve the overall working environment.
TLT: What do you love most about your job?
Neuffer Evans: I enjoy being able to help operators improve the manufacturing process. My job is to help the operator be as efficient as possible. When I can collaborate with them on an idea for something I can help put in place to make their job easier, I feel like I have accomplished something worthwhile. At the end of the day, it is operators who truly bring value to the company, and I want to be there to help them in any way I can.
TLT: What gets you excited about going to work every day?
Neuffer Evans: I would say the people factor of the workplace is what I look forward to the most about my workday. Having that support system and knowing you are surrounded with good people who are there to help you and to encourage you makes the work more collaborative, more engaging and even fun.
TLT: If you were starting your career again, would you do anything differently?
Neuffer Evans: I am tremendously grateful for obtaining my undergraduate degree in polymer and fiber engineering. If I could go back and do it again, I would have probably chosen a more traditional engineering degree. When I attended career fairs, I was told by several companies that they only hired from the major engineering disciplines. Having such a specialized degree made it somewhat difficult when it came time to apply for jobs when most employers had never heard of it before.
I would, however, not go back and change the experience I had while studying for the tribology minor. I met so many wonderfully supportive industry professionals who were excited to see interest in tribology among college students. They recognized the impact that hiring new professionals could bring.
TLT: What advice would you give to high school or college students who might want to pursue a career in tribology?
Neuffer Evans: Talk to someone about possible career opportunities in the field he or she is interested in. Also, once you begin your undergraduate studies, make sure to network with industry representatives. When it comes time to apply for internships or jobs, there is a greater chance of being remembered, and that could mean the difference between getting an interview or getting passed over for an interview.
Lastly, I would say get as much hands-on experience prior to graduation as possible. Internships are like test runs for your career path. They can help you figure out if the career you have chosen is what you really enjoy.
You can reach Hannah Neuffer Evans at
hannah.neuffer@utas.utc.com.