Informational Interview - Assignment 4

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School

Humber College *

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Course

5005

Subject

Mechanical Engineering

Date

Feb 20, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

7

Uploaded by kinghaller1999

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1 INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT 4 INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW I. INTERVIEWEE’S BACKGROUNDS 1. SELECTION OF THE INTERVIEWEE For the informational interview, I chose to currently holds the position of Manager at Simplicity Car Care Toryork, a role he has been in since 2022. My decision to select Mr. Thevathasan was influenced by both professional proximity and his extensive experience in the automotive industry. As my manager at Simplicity Car Care Toryork, he has been directly involved in my work environment, providing a unique perspective on career development within our specific sector. 2. PREPARATORY RESEARCH
Informational Interview 2 For my informational interview, I manager at Simplicity Car Care Toryork, to understand his career background. I looked at his LinkedIn profile for a timeline of his career, used internal information to learn about his work and projects at our company, and spoke with colleagues to get a sense of his management style. I also visited the websites of both Simplicity Car Care Toryork and Honda Canada, where he previously worked, to learn about the companies’ goals and main activities. Additionally, to get a better idea of his role as a manager, I looked at job descriptions for similar positions in our industry and checked out what is generally expected and recommended for such roles.
Informational Interview 3 3. RESOURCES The resources utilized for this research included online professional networks, company websites, industry-specific publications, internal company records, and discussions with colleagues. This comprehensive approach ensured that I was well-prepared with relevant and quality information to conduct a meaningful and insightful informational interview with Mr. Thevathasan. II. INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Q: Can you share your educational background and why you chose a career in automotive engineering? A: "I graduated in Mechanical Engineering from York University. My interest in car mechanics and solving complex problems drew me to this field." Q: What inspired you to focus on car repair and damage estimation? A: "The diverse challenges in diagnosing and repairing cars attracted me. It’s satisfying to understand and fix intricate mechanical issues." Q: How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in automotive technology? A: "I attend workshops, participate in professional groups, and read industry publications to keep up with the fast-paced changes in automotive tech." Q: Could you describe a particularly difficult repair job and how you handled it?
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Informational Interview 4 A: "A challenging task was fixing an intermittent electrical problem in a hybrid car. It demanded extensive testing and expert consultations." Q: What impact do you foresee electric vehicles having on your field? A: "Electric vehicles are rapidly changing our industry. There's an increasing need for technicians with EV expertise, which I'm actively developing." Q: Can you comment on the current and future job prospects in your field? A: "The demand for skilled technicians is strong, but shifting towards software and electronics due to the rise of electric and autonomous vehicles." Q: What skills and knowledge do you think are essential for someone starting in this field? A: "Understanding car mechanics, knowing car parts and their functions, and having patience and attention to detail are essential." Q: What major challenge has your industry recently faced? A: "We've struggled with delayed car parts shipments due to strikes and supply chain issues since the pandemic." Q: How did you land your first job in the automotive field? A: "My first job came through networking. A friend’s connection at Honda opened the door for me."
Informational Interview 5 III. INTERVIEW REFLECTION 1. REFLECTION RECORD Contact’s First and Last Name Title Manager Company Name Simplicity Car Care Toryork Industry Automotive Repair and Maintenance Phone and Email toryork@simplicitycarcare.ca (he refused to share personal contacts) Website https://simplicitycc.com/auto-collision-center- locations-2/simplicity-car-care-toryork-drive/ Date Interviewed 12 th November, 2023 Describe an interesting fact or aspect of your contact’s industry or position. The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is significantly changing the automotive repair industry while Supply Chain Management plays a crucial role on how everything will play out in the end. Describe one of your most important attributes (personal skill). How might this benefit you in a Attention to detail and patience, are essential for diagnosing and repairing intricate mechanical issues in
Informational Interview 6 summer placement? cars. What two technical skills do you want to develop or enhance as a result of your discussion with your contact? Efficient Supply Chain Management: Focusing on strategies for minimizing disruptions in car parts supply. Advanced Inventory Management: Learning how to optimize inventory levels to balance availability and cost. What other careers are related to this field? Would these require other training? Automotive Logistics Coordinator: Requires knowledge in logistics and transportation management. Parts Procurement Manager: Involves skills in procurement and supplier negotiation. What questions did you have about your contact or their industry as a result of your research? How do you manage supply chain challenges in car parts distribution? What strategies have proven effective in maintaining a steady parts supply? If given the opportunity, what other question(s) would you want to ask your contact? Can you describe the impact of technology on car parts supply chain management? Could you relate to your contact? What are the key factors in choosing suppliers for car parts? What are your plans to keep in touch with this Follow-up emails, sharing updates seeking advice, and
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Informational Interview 7 contact? possibly arranging future meetings to discuss industry trends. Were you able to get other possible contacts? No specific contacts were mentioned, but potential to network within Simplicity Car Care Toryork and its industry connections. 2. REFLECTION SUMMARY The informational interview at Simplicity Car Care Toryork has significantly influenced my perspective on the automotive industry, especially in supply chain management. His insights into the challenges of car parts logistics and the importance of efficient supply chain strategies have deepened my interest in this field and reinforced my career aspirations. The evolving nature of automotive technology, particularly the shift towards electric vehicles, emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptability. In terms of follow-up, I plan to send a thank-you email, expressing gratitude for his insights and requesting occasional mentorship. Staying connected through professional networks and seeking his advice on further skill development will be crucial as I navigate my career in this dynamic industry.