Break Free Product Life Cycle

Most firms build their marketing strategies around the concept of the product life cycle–the idea that after introduction, products inevitably follow a course of growth, maturity, and decline. It doesn't have to be that way, says Harvard Business School marketing professor Youngme Moon. By positioning their products in unexpected ways, companies can change how customers mentally categorize them. In doing so, they can shift products lodged in the maturity phase back–and catapult new products forward–into the growth phase. The author describes three positioning strategies that marketers use to shift consumers' thinking. Reverse positioning strips away â€Å"sacred† product attributes while adding new ones (JetBlue, for example, withheld the expected first-class seating and in-flight meals on its planes while offering surprising perks like leather seats and extra legroom). Breakaway positioning associates the product with a radically different category (Swatch chose not to associate itself with fine jewelry and instead entered the fashion accessory category). And stealth positioning acclimates leery consumers to a new offering by cloaking the product's true nature (Sony positioned its less-than-perfect household robot as a quirky pet). Clayton Christensen described how new, simple technologies can upend a market. In an analogous way, these positioning strategies can exploit the vulnerability of established categories to new positioning. A company can use these techniques to go on the offensive and transform a category by demolishing its traditional boundaries. Companies that disrupt a category through positioning create a lucrative place to ply their wares–and can leave category incumbents scrambling.

Case Study: Lakes Automotive Essay

1. How do companies combine methodologies?  Answer: Companies combine methodologies by conducting research to determine the fastest and most cost effective method to move product and satisfy the customer; criticizing both advantages and disadvantages; asking for the opinions of the employees and managers, and/or deciding which phase the company is willing to keep. 2. How do you get employees to change work habits that have proven to be successful? Answer: In order to get employees to change work habits that have been proven to be successful, management must ensure that the new, implemented work habits are just as good and will benefit the overall longevity of the company as well as the employees of the company. 3. What influence should a customer have in redesigning a methodology that has proven to be successful? Answer: The customer should have a lot of influence in redesigning a methodology that has proven to be successful because the overall goal of any company should be to satisfy the customer. The customer is essential in generating the company’s revenue. 4. What if the customers want the existing methodologies left intact? Answer: If the customers of both companies, Lakes Automotive and Pelex Automotive Products, desire to implement the existing methodologies than the board will have to agree on a standard methodology to satisfy both parties. Therefore, combining methodologies becomes a vital option. 5. What if the customers are unhappy with the new combined methodology? Answer: If the customers are unhappy with the new combined methodology than management should revisit the most effective way to satisfy the majority of the customer base. 1. Why was it so difficult to develop a methodology?  Answer: It was difficult because the employees were not trained and was not knowledgeable on the one particular methodology. 2. Why were all three initial methodology based on policies and procedure? Answer: The three initial methodologies were based on policies and procedure, because that was the only standard that information systems, new products, and new corporate clients have in common. It was used because everyone is aware of policies and procedures and have access to references. 3. Why do you believe the organization later was willing to accept a singular methodology? Answer: It is not possible for there to be any organization or success in doing business with using three different methodologies. It had to be chaotic. Moreover, the company â€Å"had a problem deciding how to assign the right project manager to the right project.† (Kerzner, pg. 5) 4. Why was he singular methodology based on guidelines rather than policies and procedures? Answer: In the beginning the company used policies and procedures as a map for the three initial methodologies it was using, because they probably thought that was a way to have some sort of organization amongst the three methodologies. Later when the company realized the strategy was not working, they decided to use one methodology. Furthermore, since everyone is trained in the only methodology the company is now using it made sense for everyone to follow the guidelines of the methodology instead of the policy and procedure. 5. Did it make sense to have the fourth day of the training program devoted to the methodology and immediately attached to the end of the three-day program? Answer: Yes, it certainly made sense to have the fourth day devoted to training the employee on the new methodology. It is important for the employee to learn the new methodology specially since the previous strategy of using three different methodologies did not work for the company. In order for a company to be successfully all the employees should be trained, practice, and be comfortable with the company’s culture and methodology. According to the PMBOK Guide, a methodology is defined as, â€Å"A system of practices, techniques, procedures, and rules used by those who  work in a discipline,† therefore a company will have a difficult time being successful if everyone doesn’t know the methodology the company practices. 6. Why was the consultant not allowed to teach the methodology? Answer: The consultant was brought in only to train employees on project management skills, therefore, as the text implies, the consultant’s expertise is only in that subject. Moreover, the new methodology was developed internally. Since it was created internally only an internal employee could have the knowledge to train employees on the new methodology. 1. What is the critical issue?  Answer: The critical issue is that the Clark Faucet Company has a non-cooperative culture; therefore, the engineering and marketing department is not encouraged to communicate. This causes friction between the two departments and many failed project management implementations. 2. What can be done about it?  Answer: The executive council should enforce better company structure. For example, good project management practices and mandate communication between the engineering and marketing departments in order to complete task effectively and efficiently. 3. Can excellence in project management still be achieved and, if so, how? What step can you recommend? Answer: Excellence in project management may still be achieved if the project manager follows the tasks identified under the planning, execution, and closing. I would recommend the project manager keep constant communication with the stakeholder to identify risk (issues) internally and externally that will prevent the project form progressing. 4. Given the current non-cooperative culture, how long will it take to achieve a good cooperative project management culture, and even excellence? Answer: The length in changing the project management culture depends on the executive decisions and implementation process. If all employees are made  aware of change and consequences of not adapting to change than the culture should transition quickly. However, if its not encouraged or practiced than a culture transition may take a while to achieve. 7. Should a singular methodology for project management have a process for the prioritization of projects or should some committee external to the methodology accomplish this? Answer: There should be a singular methodology for project management to have a process for the prioritization of projects because as a project manager, you are responsible for the planning, execution, and closing of the project. Therefore, the prioritization falls under the planning phase, which falls under the project manager.

Personal paper on anorexia regarding someone in family Statement

Paper on anorexia regarding someone in family - Personal Statement Example â€Å"In the U.S. and other countries with high economic status, it is estimated that about one out of every 100 adolescent girls has the disorder† (MedicineNet, 2009) I have a sister in who is affected by anorexia even though not in a severe manner. She was very much conscious about her physical appearances even from late childhood. Initially nobody cared much about such behavior and my parents thought her habits were quite normal. In my country, overweight is a big problems and obese people are trying every means to reduce their weight. Moreover gaining overweight create lot of physical and psychological problems like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetics, cardiac problems, lack of self esteem etc. So initially my parents encouraged her in her efforts to reduce her weight. But later we realized that she was affected by the mental disorder anorexia and need attention. This paper explains my knowledge about anorexia based on the characteristic s I observed in sister’s behavior after she was confirmed with anorexia. â€Å"Anorexia usually begins in young people around the onset of puberty. Individuals suffering from anorexia have extreme weight loss. Weight loss is usually 15% below the persons normal body weight. The disorder is thought to be most common among people of higher socioeconomic classes and people involved in activities where thinness is especially looked upon, such as dancing, theater, and distance running† (MamasHealth, 2009). Normally people who belong to the high class society would be more conscious about their physical appearances compared to low class societies. Low class people might have lot of other issues related to their survival in the society. So they might not be concerned with the physical beauty much. On the other hand, those who belong to high class society may not have much serious issues related to their survival in the

Reviewing the literature Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Reviewing the literature - Essay Example 5). The elderly, the malnourished, and those with acute illness are the most vulnerable (Moore and Cowman, 2010, p. 5). Pressure ulcers are a serious problem for older people because of pain, osteomyelitis, sepsis, and mortality that can be associated with the condition (Graumlich et al., 2003, p. 147). Up to 18% of the hospitalized can have pressure sores or ulcers (Moore and Cowman, 2010, p. 5). In nursing homes, a prevalence of 24% was reported (Graumlich et al., 2003, p. 147). Among surgical patients, the incidence of pressure ulcers can be as high as 12 to 45% (Armstrong et al., 2003, p. 647). Pressure sores or ulcers arise when pressure from lying or sitting on a particular body area result to tissue damage and oxygen deprivation to the affected area (Moore and Cowman, 2010, p. 5). Because of continuous pressure, tissues are depleted of blood flow, waste products are not removed from the wound and the wound fails to get oxygen and nutrient supply that are all necessary for heal ing (Moore and Cowman, 2010, p. 5). According to Graumlich et al. (2003, p. ... In the United States, Graumlich et al. (2001, p. 645) estimated that the cost of treatment for pressure ulcers exceeded US$1 billion annually. Heyneman et al. (2008, p. 1165) reported based on the study of Severens and others in 2002 that the cost of pressure ulcers is about 1% of the health care budget. Of course, prevention is the cornerstone of care for pressure ulcer (Heyneman et al., 2008, p. 1165). However, when pressure ulcers already took place, there are several modes of treatments available. One of them is repositioning (Moore and Cowman, 2010). Another mode of treatment involves the use of collagen (Graumlich et al., 2003). Still another treatment involves the use of phenytoin (Hollisaz et al., 2004). Finally, another way is through hydrocolloids (Hollisaz et al., 2004; Belmin et al., 2002; Heyneman et al., 2008; Graumlich et al., 2003; and Thomas, 2008). The modes of treatments enumerated do not exhaust the modes of treatments feasible or possible on pressure ulcers but w e focus on the use of hydrocolloids. Heyneman et al. (2008, p. 1165) reported that a wide range of treatment is available and the treatment methods can be subdivided into secondary prevention, topical products, surgical treatment and physiotherapy. The word â€Å"hydrocolloids† was coined in the 1960s in the development of mucoadhesives in the combination between carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with adhesives and tackifiers for treating mouth ulcers (Thomas, 2008, p. 602). Thomas (2008, p. 602) reported the term hydrocolloids was subsequently adopted to describe a new type of dressing based on the technology (Thomas, 2008, p. 602). The dressing technology identified as hydrocolloid, a hydrophilic gelable mass was applied in a

An analysis of Edgar Allan Poes Annabel Lee Research Paper

An analysis of Edgar Allan Poes Annabel Lee - Research Paper Example This all-encompassing love filled Annabel Lee’s mind when she was still alive as stated in the line, â€Å"And this maiden she lived with no other thought/ Than to love and be loved by me† (Poe, â€Å"Annabel Lee,† lines 5-6). The line clearly states that there was nothing else that Annabel Lee thought of other than this love the author had for her. Although this may simply be a mere exaggeration on the part of the poet, still the line emphasizes the greatness of such a love and the idea that this love probably inspired most of Annabel Lee’s daily life prior to her death. Furthermore, this love shared by Annabel Lee and the poet when the former was still alive was one shared mutually. All that Annabel Lee thought of was â€Å"to love and be loved† by the poet (6), which means that she did want to show him her love but at the same time, she expected him to do the same to her. In short, this love was not one of a sacrifice where only one would love th e other. Moreover, Poe affirms this mutual love when he says, â€Å"But we loved with a love that was more than love† (9). The first mention of the word â€Å"love† was the great love the author believed he and Annabel Lee shared while the second mention of the word â€Å"love† was somehow the kind of mediocre love he believed was shared by other people. Although, in the second stanza, there was a hint of childishness in the love that the poet shared with Annabel Lee for â€Å"I was a child and she was a child† (7), Poe assures the reader that this is nothing childish. He specifically counters this argument regarding childish love in the fifth stanza as he says, â€Å"But our love was stronger by far than the love/ Of those who were older than we-/ of many far wiser than we-† (27-28). From this line, the reader is made to believe that both the poet and Annabel Lee could love better and so much more than even the old and the wise. Furthermore, it wa s to be proven later on in the poem that indeed this love is something extraordinary and greater than death. This great, all-encompassing love is indeed put to the test when â€Å"A wind blew out of a cloud,/ [and chilled] my beautiful Annabel Lee† (15-16). The death is the test of their love, but far from this idea of a test, the poet believes that this is more of a result of envy on the part of fate, represented by the angels: â€Å"The angels, not half so happy in heaven,/ Went envying her and me-† (21-22). The envy must have been caused by the great pride both the poet and Annabel Lee shared when it came to their love when the latter was still alive. Nevertheless, although the reader may not be able to distinguish whether the poet’s love for the dead Annabel Lee is one brought about by pride or true love, it remains clear that his love for someone dead is just all the same as the one when she was still alive. Although there is no more clue as to whether this love is still mutually shared by the poet and the dead Annabel Lee, this love remains to be strong. Poe proves this by stating his convictions in the line, â€Å"And neither the angels in heaven above,/ Nor the demons down under the sea,/ Can ever dissever my soul from the soul/ Of the beautiful Annabel Lee† (30-33). The mention of the word â€Å"soul† may suggest suicide on the part of the poet but it may

Policy Making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Policy Making - Essay Example The contacts can be found in a government directory. The next step is initiating contact. This involves calling the offices or traveling to the offices personally. If an appointment is granted, the plan moves to the next part which involves correspondence on material. This is the part where any question that will be posed to the policy makers during the visit get availed to allow ample time for preparation. In addition, the policy makers will get a copy of the policy recommendation report to allow them to prepare for the discussion during the visit. After providing the material in focus, the next stage will involve setting up a date for the visit and the itinerary. The itinerary is generally focused on arrival at the policy makers’ offices and a schedule of the debates that will take place. The itinerary will be approved by both sides (we, the visitors and the policy makers). The visit will last for not more than two hours (Bensley & Brookins-Fisher, 2008). Overview of Recomme ndations The key strategies of the recommendations are proper patient-to-nurse ratio staffing, proper shift managements, and proper overtime management. The importance of these aspects of nursing is that they are the backbone of proper nursing environment. On proper nurse-to-patient ratio, the problem was that nurses in many hospitals were overwhelmed by the work they had to do. In some cases, one nurse had to tend to over sixty patients. This is a dangerous situation because nurses who are overwhelmed by their work get fatigued and, as a result, produce poor quality results (Kenner & Finkelman, 2012). On proper shift management, the problem identified was that nurses had to do very long shifts and in most cases worked on the same working quadrant for a long time. The long shifts made the nurses fatigued and demoralized them. The notion of working in the same quadrant over a long period of time made their work seem repetitive. Repetitive work makes the nurses numb to developments in the workplace. These developments are such as patient condition deterioration or any routine procedures that may need to be changed. My recommendation at this point is that the nurses should work shifts of less than eight hours and that the hospitals should do frequent rotation of the nurses in the wards (Kenner & Finkelman, 2012). On overtime management, the problem identified was that nurses did much overtime work. Daytime nurses tended to stretch their shifts into the night and vice versa. Other nurses took weekend jobs. The problem with overtime work is that it exhausts the nurses and confuses the doctors who will have already changed shifts. My recommendation is that nurses should be allowed as little overtime work as possible due to the nature of their work. Their work is sensitive and demands a lot of keenness (Kenner & Finkelman, 2012). Analysis of Empirical Evidence Empirical evidence showed that nurses who worked for long shifts had alarmingly poor results with many nursi ng related conditions attributed to them. Generally, nurses who worked long shifts complained of loss of concentration in work and stress. Doctors who worked with nurses, who worked long shifts, complained of laxity among those nurses and reduction in the quality of the nurses’ work. The case was worse among nurses who were registered and their unregistered assistants. In such cases, there was a breakdown in communication. Registered nurses who

Stat Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Stat - Coursework Example From the above table it is observed that the mean filmadmissions of quarter 1 (April-June) is the lowest with 13,173,422.8 and the highest is of the second quarter (July-Septermber) with 14,970,853.11. From the above ANOVA table we observe that there is no significant difference in the mean admission between the quarters as the probability of significance is 0.527 (>0.05). Hence all the seasons are homogeneous (on par) with regard to mean admission. From the above ANOVA table we observe that there is no significant difference in the mean admission between the years as the probability of significance is 0.848 (>0.05). Hence all the years are homogeneous (on par) with regard to mean admission. Interpretation: The regression equation is given by y = -119,506.78x + 1,092,063.39 where x represents weeks on release and y represents weekend total. The correlation is given by -0.33 which is very weak. When there is an increase of weeks, the weekend total gets decreased in general, but still we cannot make a sure conclusion because some other factors may be involved in deciding the weekend total. From the above table it is found that the multiple correlation is 0.33 and R squared is 0.11 which indicates that only 11% of dependent variable weekend total is explained through independent variable weeks after release. From the above table, it is inferred that the regression coefficient is not significant since the probability of significance is 0.23 (>0.05), hence the independent variable weeks on release is not a better predictor for the dependent variable weekend total. From the above table it is inferred that the regression coefficient is not significant whereas the constant (intercept) is significant at 5% level (p value =0.018

Diplomacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Diplomacy - Essay Example First of all let us try to define what is diplomacy. This term is very often mixed with the term 'foreign policies'. The difference between the two terms was well summarized by Watson (1982, p.10), who points out that "while foreign policy is the substance of a state's relations with other states and agencies and the goals it strives to achieve by those relations", diplomacy is "the process of dialogue and negotiation by which states in a system conduct their relations and pursue their purposes by means short of war." As observed by Berridge (1995, p.1), "diplomacy as a professional activity is regulated by custom and by law. These two conditions are central to the emergence and maintenance of the transnationally distributed diplomatic logic of appropriateness: general respect for the common set of legal rules and routines delineating diplomacy as a practice anchored in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Conduct (1961) and the recruitment and socialization processes at foreign minis tries socializing diplomats into the dual role of promoting national interests in ways conforming to the transnationally accepted diplomatic norms and procedures". According to Der Derian (1987, p. 111), "what uniquely characterizes the paradigm of diplomacy is its utility for states in balancing the forces of hegemony and anarchy. In other words, diplomacy emerges as the collective and reflexive embodiment of the states' ultimate task - self-preservation in an alien environment". But it is generally known that there is no future without history. Diplomacy has a long history of adaptation and change (Hocking 1999, 2001: Melissen, 1999). That is why there is no doubt that it is time to do some hard thinking in regard to the analysis of the historical experience of diplomatic relations. The evolution of the foreign service is traced in detail in: M.S. Anderson, The Rise of Modern Diplomacy 1450-1919 (London, 1993).Diplomatic law is an area of international law that is a summation of norms, which govern the status and functions of state organs of foreign affairs. For a long period of time diplomatic law has been based on custom. The first attempt to conduct partial official codification of diplomatic law has been made in Latin America. On the 20th of February 1928 it has been established "Havana Convention of 1927, which under the heading "Duties of Diplomatic Officers" stated that these officers must not interfere in the internal affairs of the receiving state and must confine their relations to the foreign ministry of the host state" (Robersts, 2006). Nowadays diplomatic law is mainly codified.The most significant document in the area of diplomatic relations is undoubtedly Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.The establishment of diplomatic relations involves the interchange of diplomatic missions. Such an interchange becomes possible only in appropriate legal and political

Jack Nicklaus biography and he's impact on society Essay

Jack Nicklaus biography and he's impact on society - Essay Example The Introduction of tournaments like Jack Nicklaus International invitation has motivated golf lovers with different skill levels to participate and to enhance the popularity of the game. Nicklaus himself was the most dominant personality among the golfers of his generation who has taken efforts to bring the sport of golf to the forefront. Jack Nicklaus-The golf legend Jack Nicklaus was born in Ohio on 21st of January 1962 and he started playing gold at the age of ten and even at this stage he showed immense talent and the rise of a promising player was in progress even from his childhood. The world witnessed an irresistible growth of Nicklaus over the finest golf players like Arnold palmer, Lee Trevino, Johnny Miller and Tom Watson in the next three decades. Nicklaus had eighteen professional and two armature wins in his golf career along with nineteen second and nine third place finishes. He has been ranked among the top ten players in 73 majors which constitute almost half of the successive majors he participated. Only five golf players in the world hold the record to win all the four major titles and Nicklaus became successful in obtaining this glorious achievement (Mackintosh 163). It is better to have a look in to the achievements of Jack’s golf career in order to get a clear picture of his extra ordinary talent as a golf player. He won six masters title in 1963, 1965, 1966 1972, 1975 and 1986, five PGA Championships in1963, 1971, 1973, 1975 and 1980, three British Opens in 1966, 1970 and 1978, and four U S Opens in 1962, 1967, 1972 and 1980. These tournaments are considered to be the key ones of professional golf. Nicklaus is the only one to hold the record for three time wins of all these four major tournaments. The list of his victories is pretty long and apart from the major tournament victories he won seventy one PGA Tours and achieved fifty eight second and thirty six third places. He also won five World Series of Golf titles, six numbers of Australian Opens, six Rider Cup appearances and many more victories around the world. Jack Grout discovered the abilities of Nicklaus for the first time and he took Nicklaus to the Scioto Country Club in Columbus his performance was very well appreciated by Senead, the defending champion of that period. Bobby Johns a legendary golf player of the era had made comment on the talent of the fifteen year old Nicklaus as â€Å"he plays a game with which I am totally unfamiliar,† which shows the expectations that golfers had regarding the future of Nicklaus (Mackintosh 164). The determination and a genuine desire to strive towards perfection always prompted Jack Nicklaus to look introspectively and question whether â€Å"he was making the proper adjustments to correct his swing technique during rounds when his play was inconsistent† (Shaw 86). It was this dedication, sincerity and hard work that made him an unchallenged champion in golf. Nicklaus turned professional after his victory in the 1961 U S Armature championship. In the year 1962, Nicklaus won U S Open title which was the first achievement in his professional golf career and in 1963 he won the Masters title and became the first ever golfer to achieve a

Three Different Types of Transition Essay Example for Free

Three Different Types of Transition Essay Transitions in life are a fundamental part of development in children and young people. From an early age a child will experience some form of transition, and how well they deal with these changes as they are growing up will be depend on their stage of development, their confidence and the support and positive relationships they may have. The affects of transitions vary from child to child, so it is important to consider them on an individual basis. That said, it is possible to gain an idea of how a childs social development may be influenced by a range of changes and the type of transition must firstly be considered. Emotional for example bereavement, the divorce or separation of parents Many children will have experienced warm, consistent, predictable care and will see adults as reliable, supportive and caring. But when there is a major change within the family unit such as parents separating or divorcing, it can have such an impact on the parents that the childrens emotions may be forgotten. This can have a traumatic affect on them and its likely that a childs emotional development will be affected. They may start to misbehave at home and/or at school to seek attention or become shy and withdrawn and lose confidence. It may cause a long-term problem as some children may find it difficult to form trusting relationships with adults. Physical for example moving to a new home or class room From something as simple as moving on to a new activity within the classroom to moving to a new home, a child or young person may find physical transition traumatic and unsettling and may affect their development. If for example a child is progressing with age to a new school or moving to the next year group within the same school, the transition may have positive effects as they wont be making the changes alone, they will be with their friends. They will be able to see their old friends in the new environment and the transition will seem a lot less daunting and they will feel comfortable of their new surroundings more quickly. However, if the move is to a new school where they are making the transition on their own where they wont know anybody they could become shy and withdrawn. They may not want to join in any of the activities and be socially awkward. Intellectual for example moving from nursery to school, primary school to secondary school, secondary school to college or college to university Some children are unable cope with intellectual transition even if there are some familiarities such as still seeing their old friends. Progressing from primary school to secondary school or secondary school to college may be difficult for some children and young people to cope with. After having familiar surroundings of the same classroom and teacher for a year it suddenly all changes and may cause some children to panic. They may become shy and withdrawn or start to exhibit antisocial behaviour. Whatever the change or transition is, children should be given the opportunity to talk about what is going on, what is happening and how they are feeling. In some situations it can be discussed prior to the event, such as moving class or moving up a year. Giving children and young people the warning of what the change will entail and the opportunity for them to ask questions can reduce the harmful effects the change or transition may have on their development. In some cases, such as bereavement, talking with the child or young person prior to the event may not be possible. However, the opportunity for them to discuss what has happened and how they are feeling should still be given. It is important that all children and young people have positive relationships during periods of transition.

Anti Federalist Arguments The Needed Balance

Anti Federalist Arguments The Needed Balance The year was 1787; delegates were convening at the State House in Philadelphia, the same location where the Declaration of Independence had been signed eleven years earlier.   There, 55 representatives came together for four months to frame a Constitution for a federal republic.   The reason for their convergence on Philadelphia was to revise the Articles of Confederation.   Since 1781 the Articles hindered the needed progress of the thirteen United States.   Rather than a united confederation, states were autonomous causing compromise and cooperation to be in short supply.   The Articles left most of the power with the state governments as a response to fears of re-creating a centralized power similar to Britain.   The burgeoning responsibilities of states were being impeded by several Articles, one being the lack of a revenue stream.   Under the Articles, Congress lacked authority to levy taxes.   It could request the states to contribute a share to the common treas ury, but the amounts gained through this mode of collection were not sufficient. To remedy this particular defect, Congress proposed an amendment that applied to the states for power to lay duties and secure the public debts. The amendment was agreed to by twelve out of thirteen states, with only Rhode Island refusing its consent, thereby defeating the proposal.   Articles 3 and 13 both required all thirteen states to agree in order to pass any legislation.   To overcome the necessity of thirteen states, early in the deliberations delegates voted that only nine states would be required to ratify the constitution.   This change made a difference to the process of ratification.   No longer could Rhode Island or any other state keep the whole from collective progress by one abstaining vote.   The Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia proceeded with men from every state but Rhode Island, as they deliberated over the necessary amendments to the Articles of Confederation the y all agreed that unfortunately, the Articles were not worth amending or saving.   Amid great secrecy they begin to write or â€Å"frame† a new constitution. As the delegates analyzed the Articles of Confederation, they noted many points that were to be part of the new document.   One was an executive branch; in affect the Articles disallowed an executive branch to enforce the laws, nor a national court system to interpret them. The question arose in 1689, a hundred years earlier, by social philosophers such as John Locke, who were arguing the need for an executive to have the power to enforce laws that are enacted by the people.   Under the Articles of Confederation in 1787, Congress was the sole organ of the national government without the ability to force the states to do anything against their will. Congress could in theory declare war and call for an army to be raised, but it could not force any state to provide its assigned quota for troops or arms or the equipment needed to support them. Due to their autonomy, the states were impervious to the threat of force or punishment, leaving Congress at a loss for the income needed to fi nance its activities.   Should a state or states not chose to participate Congress could not punish them for not contributing their share of the federal budget.    In relation to finance and monetary controls, the states controlled taxation and tariffs within their state, and each state could issue its own legal tender.   To this point, the states were more likened to European countries with disputes over borders, different currency and differing governments. Such significant differences caused disputes to arise between the states. Undoubtedly there were many unsettled quarrels over state boundaries and currency issues in regard to trade.   In the end, the only role that Congress could play was of mediator and judge without the force needed to require states to accept its decisions.    With so many contradictory Articles governing the country, a secure future seemed lost due to the many factors that would from past experience, never come together.  Ã‚   For the most part , the nations government, under the Articles of Confederation, seemed like a body without arms and legs.   From May to September 1787 a completely new and improved articles of confederation were written and called the Constitution.   The proposed Constitution was the tool that would presumably lay the foundation for future generations in governance of America.   The purpose and job of the Constitution was to correct the faulty Articles of Confederation and ensure greater central government strength and allow states to proceed as before with greater security and ability.   This was the hope but, the message was not received with the same understanding by the people.   Each state sized up its own unique situation and by calling their own ratification conventions, discussed the issues to determine if the proposed constitution would guarantee existing rights and benefit the state as a whole and not just portions of it.   After the work was completed the â€Å"framers came to an agreement on a final draft of the Constitution on September 17, 1787, after which they signed and prepare d to send it to the people for ratification. American people were now faced with a daunting task.   The whole of the nation had arrived at an important moment of their existence as a union.   Each state had matured at its own rate and grown into its geographical area by putting to use the natural resources each had to work with.   In doing so, they created and built an infrastructure and their own economic stability.   The American states were asked to enter into a federal covenant that would guide and by law regulate the countrys population in trade, commerce, security, and foreign relations. This question became Americas first political argument and one of the most important.   When the final draft was ready for public discourse and ratification not all thirteen states agreed with the entire document.   Smaller states found, what they believed were flaws that withdrew power from the individual states and gave it to the central government, which too many was against the American ideology of independence.   As a reaction to the many questions and concerns the American people were expressing a trio of men came together.   They were physically only 30 years old yet; they were indeed older through the acquisition of political experience, knowledge, and power.   For example, Alexander Hamilton served as a captain and as Washingtons aide-de-camp during the Revolution, he distinguished himself at the bar after victory, and by 1787 was already a prominent figure in the creation of the infant nation. The next man James Madison, by contrast, was more the pensive philosopher than the bold statesman. A lifelong student of philosophy, history, and law, particularly the law of nations, Madison would, despite his shyness, be a commanding presence and driving force at the constitutional convention.    However, it was John Jay who was the most experienced of all three by the time the Constitutional Convention was called. Aside from having served the fledgling republic as a masterful negotiator, a diplomat, and even, for a time, as its president, Jay was the only one to have had direct experience in Europe.   And so by 1787, all three gentlemen were indeed old with experience, well prepared to meet the challenges of the task at hand.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Taking the lead in pushing for ratification, in 1787 these three politicos decided that in order for the new Constitution to be ratified there would have to be a saturation of the issues at hand in the newspapers.   They, along with other men, wrote their arguments for the Constitution and came to be known as the Federalists.   In the same spirit as the Federalists emerged their counterparts, the anti-Federalists.   Both sides published statements, essays, and their opinions on why the proposed constitution should or should not be accepted and ratified. Each group of men was driven by their beliefs and together they fought for what they thought was important for their country.   The anti-Federalist later went by the name of Republican and the Democratic Republican, they spoke for many of the smaller states and their constituents, who had fought and sacrificed along with American forces for the victory over Britain.   They had foresight in their convictions which continue to serve the country today.   The Federalists were influential intellectuals who believed in the Constitution, and believed that it was the perfect model of government to achieve a just society.   Under the proposed Constitution, the American people could enjoy their right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Generally, Federalists were wealthy citizens, highly educated professionals, who in most cases were lawyers and their supporters followed suit by being Propertied and educated people.   In their arguments for the provisions of the Constitution, Federalists stated that if the Constitution had sections or certain language that did not work, amendments could be made. Their arguments were decidedly their strongest weapon in their pursuit to educate the public.   Alexander Hamilton was first to publish the Federalists first argument for ratification of the Constitution.   His opening words grabbed his audience: AFTER an unequivocal experience of the inefficiency of the subsisting federal government, you are called upon to deliberate on a new Constitution for the United States of America. The subject speaks its own importance; comprehending in its consequences nothing less than the existence of the UNION, the safety and welfare of the parts of which it is composed, the fate of an empire in many respects the most interesting in the world. Hamilton had offered the perfect statement on the weight of the matter before them as a country, during this most august period of American history.   Of this there was no argument.   Yet, as the essays by Alexander Hamilton, John Madison, and John Jay began filtering throughout the states there came responses from their counterparts, the anti-Federalists.   They were somewhat less organized than the Federalists, not owing to any financial benefice and served to represent the strong opposition to the idea of states loss of power to a federal government.   The response given to the Federalists essays began with an author known as â€Å"A FEDERALIST†: I am pleased to see a spirit of inquiry burst the band of constraint upon the subject of the NEW PLAN for consolidating the governments of the United States, as recommended by the late Convention. If it is suitable to the GENIUS and HABITS of the citizens of these states, it will bear the strictest scrutiny. The PEOPLE are the grand inquest who have a RIGHT to judge of its merits. The hideous daemon of Aristocracy has hitherto had so much influence as to bar the channels of investigation, preclude the people from inquiry and extinguish every spark of liberal information of its qualities. Thus the war of words had commenced, a thought at that moment might have been, shall we as a public agree to the Constitution as written or shall we, for all future generations, dissect and analyze the document before placing our hand in agreement?   The American people read the essays, listened at town hall meetings, and fueled public dialogue to full head by complete dissemination of the issues at hand offered by both groups of authors.   Their writings were strong, psychological, emotional, and called to the heart of the population to come together for the benefit of the whole and not the one.   The anti-Federalists included some very impressive notables such as Patrick Henry, James Winthrop, Robert Yates, George Clinton, James Monroe, and Thomas Jefferson. Not all contributed to the essays.   Those who did, rather than using their own names, took their cue from the Federalists and used pseudonyms.   The anti-Federalist writers shared a considerably wider range of views. Common concerns were expressed by authors known as Brutus and A Federal Farmer.Robert Yates was known to be â€Å"Brutus† but, the identity of A Federal Farmer was never confirmed. One of the key points these two men made regarded the necessary and proper clause.   The Necessary and Proper Clause, also referred to as the Elastic, Basket, and the Sweeping Clause is the provision in Article One of the United States Constitution, section 8, clause 18: The Congress shall have Power To make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof. This clause gave Congress the power to make laws which were necessary to execute all powers vested in the Constitution. The anti-Federalists argued that the Constitution only had the power to do what it states it can, and that nothing should be presupposed by the government. In other words, the government should never use the necessary and proper clause as a blanket grant of power†.   Anti-Federalist were men who understood from their recent involvement with the Revolution that giving too much power to a national government could foster tyrannical desires for more power.   The aristocratic elite and moneyed men would govern for their own states and personal benefit without any concern for the smaller states needs.   Further, the anti-Federalist felt Americans had been given empty promises and after fighting for independence their own independence and ability to provide for their families would become extinct if the Constitution was ratified as it was written.   The prim ary fear was that while a republican government was desirable in order to defend liberty, it was not possible over a large geographic area, such as the United States, because it had never been accomplished before. The fall of the Roman Empire was an implosion, a reaction to inadequate governing of an area to vast to control. The other major pitfall of republics had been class war, something that the Founding Fathers had seen in the recent Shays Rebellion. From 1781 to 1787 there was much consternation within the borders of the United States.   From an extract of a letter from James Madison to George Washington, Feb. 3, 1788, we can read sentiments received from Boston from a member of the convention there: Never was there an assembly in this state in possession of greater ability and information than the present convention, yet I am in doubt whether they will approve the constitution. There are, unhappily, three parties opposed to it. First: All men who are in favor of paper money and tender laws. Those are more or less in every part of the state. Second: All the late insurgents and their abettors. In the three great western counties they are very numerous. We have in the convention eighteen or twenty who were actually in Shays army. Shays Rebellion was an example of the small farmers and independents who had their land and homes threatened to be taken from them.   An armed uprising in central and western Massachusetts, centering in Springfield from 1786 to 1787, Shays rebellion represented the poor compatriots farmers angered by what they felt to be crushing debt and taxes. Failure to repay such debts often resulted in imprisonment in debtors prisons or the claiming of property by the County.   The leader of the Rebellion, Daniel Shays, was himself a veteran of the American Revolution who found himself engulfed in the issue and fought for a way out.    The rebellion was still fresh on the minds of many, causing the mood among the last states to ratify to be thick with opposition and strong sentiments against the contents of the constitution.   The last states to accept the proposed constitution were New York, North Carolina, Virginia, and Rhode Island.   New York presented the problem in its simplest form, the entire mass of interior counties, from Ulster to Columbia, were solidly anti-Federal, encompassing the agricultural portion of the state, the last arrived and settled, and the most thinly populated.   Governor George Clinton of New York wrote on one of the important issues among the anti-Federalists.   From the following extract of a letter from New York, July 20, 1788, George Clinton was quoted as saying, if they ratify the constitution, they must by heavy taxes support their government, which is now wholly done by the impost, etc.   This with the Mynheers is a weighty argument.   George Clinton went on to write, In Opposition to Destruction of States Rights, the following: The premises on which the new form of government is erected, declares a consolidation or union of all thirteen parts into one great whole, under the firm of the United States But whoever seriously considers the immense extent of territory comprehended within the limits of the United Statesthe dissimilitude of interests, morals, and politics in almost every one, will receive it as an intuitive truth, that a consolidated republican form of government therein, can never form a perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquillity, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to you and your posteritythis unkindred legislature therefore, composed of interests opposite and dissimilar in nature, will in its exercise, emphatically be like a house divided against itself Clinton continued that from his prospective there were no promises that could be made secure â€Å"on the score of consolidation of the United States into one government.†Ã‚   Impracticability, risk, ambitious, and aggrandizement, oppression, intricate and perplexed became words to describe the proposed constitution.   Clinton ended by saying that the proposed constitution was â€Å"too mysterious for you to understand and observe; and by which you are to be conducted into a monarchy, either limited or despotic† Interpretation and understanding by the common man was an important factor for the anti-Federalist arguments against the Constitution.   Writing on states rights, Federalist No. 6 author stated, â€Å"A great danger exists in the competition between states themselves if they are left entirely to their own sovereignty, with no unifying government. Men are by their nature ambitious, and independent states will naturally compete with one another for love of power, control of commerce and domination of territory.† The response from anti-Federalist explained that a strong state government was better than a strong central government. To them if the central government was too strong then it would threaten the peoples liberties and right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.   What rights did the people have under the proposed Constitution?   This issue was the next mountain to cross towards ratification. Anti-Federalist Patrick Henry, who wrote Need for a Bill of Rights felt: this proposal of altering our federal government is of a most alarming nature!. You ought to be watchful, jealous of your liberty; for, instead of securing your rights, you may lose them forevera wrong step made now will plunge us into misery, and our republic will be lost, and tyranny must and will arise The argument over the Bill of Rights was arguably the most important issue for the ratification of the constitution.   Their necessity appeared to be of greater importance in order to calm the states.   Patrick Henry added these words in his observation of the matter, â€Å"We are told that all powers not given are reserved. I am sorry to bring forth hackneyed observations. But, Sir, important truths lose nothing of their validity or weight, by frequency of repetition.†Ã‚   Rather than infer the rights of the people, â€Å"all rights not expressly and unequivocally reserved to the people are impliedly and incidentally relinquished to rulers, as necessarily inseparable from the delegated powers if implication be allowed, you are ousted of those rights,† they would be declared.   This argument was one of the turning points for the final states ratification of the Constitution.   Henry continued his essay on the essential need for the bill of rights by explaining: Without a Bill of Rights, you will exhibit the most absurd thing to mankind that ever the world saw  ­ a government that has abandoned all its powers  ­ the powers of taxation, the sword, and the purse. You have disposed of them to Congress, without a Bill of Rights  ­ without check, limitation, or control You have Bill of Rights to defend against a state government, which is bereaved of all its power, and yet you have none against Congress, thought in full and exclusive possession of all power! The Bill of Rights was important to the American people and by promising to make amendments and provide a draft of a Bill of Rights the delegates began to revisit their stance toward acceptance of the proposed constitution.   The â€Å"Bill† was demanded by the anti-Federalists in New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island where the battle for ratification was not clear. In these states the voting was a lot closer than in the states that first decided to ratify. The Federalists however had strong opposition to a Bill of Rights. Robert Yates, writing under the pseudonym Brutus, articulated this view point in the Anti-Federalist No. 84, asserting that a government unrestrained by such a bill could easily devolve into tyranny. Other supporters of the Bill argued that a list of rights would not, should not, and could not be interpreted as exhaustive; these rights were examples of important rights people had, along with other rights as well. Many concerned with the final interpretation of the Bill of Rights were confident that the judiciary would construe these rights in a liberal fashion. Fortunately, the Ninth Amendment would clarify the matter by addressing the rights of the people that are not specifically enumerated in the Constitution.   The arguments were just getting started, representation was of extreme importance to the smaller states who felt their position and voices would be extinguished if their representation was not equal to the larger states, who by virtue of their size may attempt to dominate on issues against those states with less representation.   The fear was understandable.   The Deep South would go to war over such issues as representation.   Melancton Smith, a New York representative at the Convention, wrote his views on the issue of representation for the anti-Federalists stating: When we speak of representatives they resemble those they represent. They should be a true picture of the people, possess a knowledge of their circumstances and their wants, sympathize in all their distresses, and be disposed to seek their true interests. Smith believed that the â€Å"knowledge necessary† for the true representative of a free people should include a comprehension of: extensive political and commercial information, such as is acquired by men of refined education, who have leisure to attain to high degrees of improvement, but it should also comprehend that kind of acquaintance with the common concerns and occupations of the people, which men of the middling class of life are, in general, more competent to than those of a superior class. In order to represent a state, its inner structure must be understood.   The true commercial interests of a country are not the only requirement for representation but also, and most importantly, â€Å"a knowledge of the productions of your own country, and their value, what your soil is capable of producing, the nature of your manufactures, the capacity of the country to increase both.† In the area of laying taxes, duties, and exercises with discretion requires knowledge of the system of finance.   A representative should also know about the people of his country, their circumstances and a general understanding of their economic commerce and ability.   They should also understand, â€Å"how the burdens imposed will bear upon the different classes.†Ã‚   Representatives should be from all walks and levels, not just elite citizens but, those of the â€Å"middling class of life.†Ã‚   Smith, as well as others, had a real concern that most bodies of the government were composed of the first class in the community and by distinguishing them by class, it would appear that the government would fall into the hands of the â€Å"few and the great.†Ã‚   In order to relieve the delegates of unrelenting concern Smith offered the following insight on representation: This will be a government of oppressionA system of corruption is known to be the system of government in Europe it will be attempted among us. The most effectual as well as natural security against this is a strong democratic branch in the legislature, frequently chosen, including in it a number of the substantial, sensible, yeomanry of the country. Does the House of Representatives answer this description? I confess, to me they hardly wear the complexion of a democratic branch; they appear the mere shadow of representation. The anti-Federalists were important to the final outcome of the ratification process because they poised questions that made the American people stop and think about what they were agreeing to and what they may lose or gain as a consequence of the proposed Constitutions acceptance.   Thomas Jefferson, third president of the U.S., from his own beliefs regarding the ratification of the Constitution, feared it would grant too much power to the U.S. government.   Jefferson thought it should be up to the states to govern themselves with a â€Å"hands-off† approach and strictly limited interference of the national government.   The funny thing about Jefferson, figurehead of the anti-Federalists was for a long time he would not choose sides between the Federalists and the anti-Federalists, because of his anti-political party sentiment. He found both sides arguments compelling, he was for a strong central government, which was more of a Federalists view. But, the argument that brought Thomas Jefferson to the anti-Federalist side was Alexander Hamiltons implied powers.   Implied powers were powers which were not stated directly in the Constitution, in other words powers that were assumed by the government. Jefferson was totally against this, he believed that the Constitution could do the things which the Constitution states it can and nothing should be assumed, strict construction. This disagreement would become a great feud between Hamilton and Jefferson, evolving into the first real battle of political parties for election in office. It should be noted that there were conflicting personalities among the â€Å"framers† and their anti-Federalist opposition. When comparing and contrasting anti-Federalist views on the ratification of the United States Constitution with those of the Federalists, one must also consider the inherent relationship that represents their respective views upon principles, problems and solutions, ultimately surmising which side best reflects or departs from the original principles set forth for the Declaration. It can be argued that the two sides are quite contrary in their individual perceptions, with each faction believing its own views are of primary integrity.   One of the major beliefs of the Federalists as pointed out at the Philadelphia convention was that a state should vote according to its population. This later became another big issue with the anti-Federalists and people from the smaller states. By comparison of the elite Federalist camp, the anti-Federalists were made up of anyone who was poor and not a big landowner, anyone tired of being controlled, anyone who wanted the peoples votes to directly count and anyone who wanted to protect their rights. The anti-Federalists were made up of all different types of people, who represented the United States population as a whole, far better than did the Federalists. The anti-Federalists wanted their power in the legislature, mainly the lower house where every state has one vote; and the terms of office to be shorter, with limits on how many terms you could serve. These officials were not to be elected by representatives but directly by the vote of the people of the United States. Finally, the only way the anti-Federalists would ever consider helping to ratify the Constitution was if it contained a Bill of Rights, which was believed essential for preserving the individual liberties of the people. It was the consensus of anti-Feder alist everywhere that without this document the government could control every aspect of a persons life. To them the Constitution without the Bill of Rights was just a weapon of the elite upper class over the poor. Individualism was the strongest element of opposition; the necessity, or at least the desirability, of a bill of rights was almost universally felt, and the anti-Federalists were able to play on these feelings in the ratification convention in Massachusetts in 1788. By this stage, five of the states had ratified the Constitution with relative ease; the Massachusetts convention however, was hostile and argumentative. In the fight for ratification of the proposed United States Constitution between Federalists and anti-Federalists propaganda played a large role on both sides.   Patrick Henry even saw the constitution as a revolutionary document much like Americas separation from Britain, he said I need not take much pains to show, that the principles of this system, are extremely pernicious, impolitic, and dangerous. Here is a revolution as radical as that which separated us from Great Britain.Despite the fact the Federalists and the anti-Federalists had opposing views regarding the constitution; both were headed for a common goal of forming a government that could run the country. Many anti-Federalists believed that the Constitution, as drafted would open the way to tyranny by the central government.   States rights, the Bill of Rights, and represenation were all heated subjects during the ratification phase.   The Bill added a comfort zone for the states; they needed security from the fear that the federal government could control them under a tyranny. States felt they would retain their rights through the freedoms afforded through the Bill of Rights.   These freedoms include freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, the right to deny refuge to soldiers, the right to privacy from search, trial by jury, innocent until proven guilty, the right to representation and to a speedy trial, no cruel and unusual punishment, the right to always have rights, and the right for states to rule on things not mentioned in the Constitution. None of this was possible under British rule; power was transferred from the center to the people. If the Constitution was ratified without the Bill of Rights, the central government could parlay its strength denying people these basic rights. As states made their decision through their own ratification conventions the nine states needed for ratification began voting.   The first state that ratified the Constitution, although its convention was not the first to assemble, was Delaware, followed by Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, and Connecticut.   Ratification of the Constitution was four states away

American Modernization Essays -- essays research papers

American Modernization Leading up to the turn of our present century, changes in culture and society of America triggered modernization throughout much of our commerce, social, artistic and educational lives. The past century or so has brought new obstacles and opportunities for the nation of America. This changing is reflected through some of the works by writers such as, Robert Frost, William Williams, Ezra Pound, and T.S. Eliot. Examining people’s mindset in modernization one common feeling of people is â€Å"nervousness† which is due to the nation’s reluctance to change. T.S. Eliot is quoted with the statement "the immense panorama of futility and anarchy which is contemporary history."1 Modernism generally, varies greatly between previous times in the 19th century which breaks stride with the traditional lifestyle of the middle-class working public. Modernists portray a dull, gloomy and pessimistic picture of culture in America during this time period. This despair is often caused by an apparent boredom and the people’s feeling of uncertainty, of changes to come. Modernism uncovered has an anti-traditionalist theme instilled in it, because of the inevitability that changes will occur. â€Å"Modern† itself possesses the qualities, such as being simple and spontaneous along with an indefinite time frame to allow people’s acceptance of unknown. In many ways, this movement is difficult to define, but it can be generally applied to the work o...

Plasma: The Power of the Sun :: physics science plasma fusion energy

As we enter the 21st century the average human's life is dictated by the production and quantity of energy. This energy is produced in many different forms, from fossil fuel to hydro and solar power. Though this production of energy has sufficed up till now, a realization has occurred that the depletion of our current sources is imminent. As a result of this energy crisis, a race to find an alternative energy supply has been put forth. Through plasma fusion's nearly inexhaustible supply of fuel, its lack of greenhouse gases and the amazing spin-off technologies that have developed through plasma research, it is the answer to the current energy crises. Fusion To understand the technology behind plasma fusion, fusion itself must be understood. Fusion is the combining of two or more atoms of low mass, which are initially attracted to each other, to form one atom of greater mass. When two atoms combine to form a single atom, they have fused. This fusing releases a large amount of energy with respect to the amount of mass and energy that was initially put into the reaction. This combination releases energy in the form of light and heat. Energy is created in a fusion reaction through the loss of atomic mass from the beginning to the end of the reaction. The mass of the two atoms is significantly more than the mass of the new atom, which they fused together to form. This loss of mass is subsequently converted into pure energy in the form of light and heat. The reason for this amazing discovery is that mass is just a concentrated form of energy. This understanding between the relationship of mass and energy was discovered by Albert Einstein and illustrated in his famous equation E=mc^2, where E is energy, m is mass, and c is the speed of light. Through this equation the amount of energy held within a mass can be determined. In a plasma fusion reaction between two hydrogen atoms the decrease in mass is about 4x10^-29 kg. This mass is then converted to energy, equaling 23.9 MeV. "To appreciate the magnitude of this result note that if 1g of [hydrogen] is converted to helium, the energy released†¦ would be worth abou t $70,000" (Physics for scientist and Engineers 1276). Fission In a fission event an example of a reaction at an atomic level is an (A)tomic-bomb. The A-bomb harnesses the power of an atom through an uncontrolled reaction.

Mechanical Engineering Career Paper

| Mechanical EngineeringRobert MolinowskiVocollect703 Rodi Road, Pittsburgh, PA, 15235(412) 829-8145| | | | | Pd. 6/7 Career Paper December 15, 2011 Mechanical Engineering According to projected job employment in the year, 2018, mechanical engineering will have an estimated quarter of a million jobs nationwide. This is an increase of roughly 6% between 2008 and 2018. As the need for better, more economical necessities, a need for mechanical engineers will always be on the uplift. Many mechanical engineers â€Å"research, design, develop, manufacture, and test tools, engines, machines, and other mechanical devices. (Bureau, 4). This branch, within the engineering field, happens to be the broadest category. Mechanical engineers are seen throughout all aspects of life, from agricultural production to maintenance of engines of cars and machines. With mechanical engineering, most people will be stationed in an office building/manufacturing facility. Others will have the benefit of travel ing to job sites to see what their team needs to design for the specific company. A normal, typical work week would consist of working a total of forty hours. This, however, would change if the company was on a tight time schedule to get something produced for someone. Only then will the average mechanical engineer work more than forty hours a week. â€Å"We also spend time working with engineers in manufacturing and design to plan design iterations and product fixes that can be made quickly and cheaply. † (Camenson, 85). Mechanical engineering is, â€Å"†¦very much a â€Å"people-person† job. † (Camenson, 90). Everything written down in logbooks will be subject to engineer scrutiny, and that would look bad on the source’s end. If mechanical engineers were to write/draw something that could take different meanings, for example, an ink blot, this could cause a serious setback in how you go about your future in mechanical engineering. If the offense is serious enough, it could cost someone their job. This shows that you must be careful in how you go about your job in that you don’t know who’s going to see your drawings. Women, in the field of mechanical engineering are at a disadvantage when it comes to comparing men to women. Women are more content to gossiping in the office instead of working on their job. â€Å"Patience is essential. You have to check most of your ego at the door when you walk into a meeting you’ve called, but retain enough leadership skills to keep the meeting focused on its objectives. † (Camenson, 90). This quote accurately describes one of the challenges that women have while working in this field. I can be a witness to this when I went on my job shadow. There were few females working and the ones that did would do little and chit-chat with one another for great lengths of time. When it comes to men, they dominate the field in that they â€Å"outnumber women by a ratio of 3:1† (Bureau, 16). Men can be more communicative with one another during meetings as I witnessed also. Men, as I saw, were more scrutinizing during meetings but they were subtle about it. One thing of advice, â€Å"Learn how to speak in front of a group. It doesn’t matter if the only chance you get is talking to high schoolers about not drinking and driving- that counts, and probably more than giving a lecture on acoustics or materials technology. (Camenson, 94). To sum things up, working in the field of mechanical engineering is highly competitive, be careful what you design, you don’t know who could see it, and that women are at a disadvantage for various reasons when being compared to men in the field. When it comes to mechanical engineering, a detailed course study of engineering and physics is necessary if you are to want to â€Å"make it big† in the field. For just about any field of engineering, especially mechanical, â€Å"a bachelor’s degree in engineering is necessary. † (Bureau, 6). Having flexibility in an engineer’s study program allows him/her to boast a wide variety of fields of engineering for their resume. â€Å"A design course is usually the way to go but having a course study that included mathematics and the physical and life sciences would further benefit the engineer since they’ll be a more defined engineer. † (Bureau, 6). Many colleges offer two or four year degree programs in engineering. For example, Penn State offers what they call a 2+2 program. The program lets the student do his undergraduate studies at any of the branch campuses throughout Pennsylvania for the first two years. After those two years, the student will then be admitted to the main campus in University Park to complete their graduate studies. The main difference between the set of two years is that for the first two years, you’ll be doing your core courses as well as courses designed for your intended major. When you get to the main campus, that’s where you’ll focus primarily on your specific field of engineering with other students from across the state. â€Å"Businesses often look for college graduates who studied through a four year program instead of a two year. † (Bureau, 6). Graduate training is essential if you were to want to earn promotions within a certain company. This training isn’t required for most entry-level jobs. All fifty states and the District of Columbia require that any engineer who offers their services to the public to have a license or they can be fined heavily for it. These licenses are good for up to four years and must be renewed much like a driver’s license. â€Å"Most states accept out of state licensees. † (Bureau, 7). Engineers should be able to work well with others and communicate on a very high level, both orally and in writing. To stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, â€Å"many companies and firms will send their engineers to training as part of the job duties. † (Hutchinson, 4). An employment prospect for mechanical engineering graduates is the highest in any of the engineering fields. â€Å"Federal agencies such as the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers have a large number of mechanical engineers on their staff. † (Hutchinson, 4). â€Å"Over the period of ten years, from 2008 to 2018, employment in the field of engineering is expected to increase roughly eleven. † (Hutchinson, 5). This is good for me in that I will be entering the field within the next ten years, hopefully. With the high demand for new and improved products, the mechanical engineering career won’t see a downfall for quite some time. There is, however, a minor setback in the globalization of engineering. That is, â€Å"With the rise of the Internet, it has become much easier for firms to use mechanical engineers in other parts of the world to do a lot of the engineering work that once done solely by mechanical engineers in this country. † (Hutchinson, 5). This could prove to be a major setback if I would want to work overseas someday. This is something that comes up with just about any profession that I would want to work in. The mechanical engineering field, I know for a fact, took a hard hit during the recent recession. I found this information out from the use of my job shadow. Mechanical engineers are one of the top paid occupations for out-of-college graduates. â€Å"Starting salaries for a beginning mechanical engineer career will find salaries in the mid-range of engineering salaries according to 2009 data provided by the National Association of Colleges and Employers. † (Hutchinson, 5). This kind of a salary is tremendous when compared to other occupations just within engineering itself. With the kind of salary I’ll be making when I become a mechanical engineer, I’ll be able to pay off most of my student loans well before my goal, which is by age thirty. â€Å"Earnings for engineers vary significantly by specialty, industry, and education. With mechanical engineering having the highest salary in the lowest 10% of the job corps. † (Bureau, 13). Having a higher degree, such as a Master’s instead of a Bachelor’s will give you an edge in how you’re paid. Obtaining that higher degree ensures that you have a vast amount of knowledge in that specific field of knowledge. Before the invention of the computer, every design was drawn up by hand and took a much longer amount of time to complete. A vast knowledge in art would’ve been necessary to draw something as elaborate as a headset, for example. When the computer began making its march across the technological community, mechanical engineers went crazy because, they could now do their drawings on the computer instead of drawing it by hand. Now that they had their computers to work on, it was a matter of time before programs began surfacing that would further benefit a mechanical engineer and his drawings. With the invention of the three-dimensional printer, mechanical engineers can now draw their product on the computer program, then take that drawing and have it printed out in 3D to see what it would look like in reality. The 3D printer is good in that you can print out a small scale version of the product and see if it’ll be good enough to withstand various testing. I guess we owe it to Steve Jobs and Mike Wozniak for inventing the first computer. Without them, mechanical engineers might still be doing drawings by hand. â€Å"Mechanical Engineers work closely with several other engineering disciplines such as civil engineering, electrical engineering, and aerospace engineering. † (Hutchinson, 6). This just goes to show how closely related the fields of engineering truly are. In fact, all of the fields of engineering are connected to one another in one way shape or form. When it comes to the auto industry, â€Å"mechanical engineers work closely with automotive engineers. † (Hutchinson, 6). This shows that mechanical engineers work in all different kinds of environments. Other related professions include: aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, engineering technicians, computer scientists, physicists and astronomers. † (Hutchinson, 6). This final quote resembles the fact that mechanical engineers work with a wide variety of other professions. It is that a mechanical engineer is a piece that keeps a wide variety of occupations running at tip-top shape. Works Cited Works Cited Bureau of Labor Statistics, U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Engineers, on the Internet at http://www. bls. gov/oco/ocos027. htm (visited September 21,2011) Camenson, Blythe. Real People Working in Engineering. Lincolnwood, IL: VGM Career Horizons, 1998. Print. Hutchinson, Jonathon. â€Å"Mechanical Engineering Job Outlook: Employment and Salary Information. † Job Outlook: Employment and Salary. Online Degrees, 2006. Web. 23 Sept. 2011. http://www. onlinedegrees. org/calculator/salary/mechanical-engineers Job Shadowing Job Shadowing I arrived at Vocollect Industries off of Rodi Road in Penn Hills a little after eight in the morning. I was greeted warmly by the man whom I shadowed, Mr. Molinowski. He showed me around his specific floor of which he works on in Vocollect. He ushered me into his office and began discussing what he had planned out for toady. He overviewed what he did within the company itself. He designs products for customers from anything from a microphone to a computer. This could only be possible by the works of a computer program called, Pro-Engineer. Pro-E, as engineers call it, can turn any two-dimensional drawing into a three-dimensional drawing were the designer can be as detailed with the drawing as he wants to. In this industry, it’s bad if there is little detail so, lots of detail is key to producing the best product. After the overview of his job and the day’s events, Robert then showed me around the labs they use to test the integrity of their products, not as a whole, but rather is little individual parts. There were many labs of which I got to personally see myself. Most of the labs had computer simulations of testing the integrity of the product in various ways. For example, the product of which was being tested was their new edition of a headset and a terminal electrical power station. This headset and terminal combination is going to be used in the manufacturing industry over in China. The different labs tested for how long a certain feature of either the headset or terminal would function properly for before it failed (broke). Other labs included applying extreme heat and cold onto the parts. The lab that caught my eye the most was the one that counted the number of times until a cord that’s connected to the terminal broke through the entire cord. When I first saw the count, in the morning, it was a mere 31,586. I asked if I could check it again before I left and when I checked it for the second time in the afternoon, the count was up to 123,874. I asked Mr. Molinowski if the second number was high because, I would think that the second count wouldn’t last much longer before it broke. He answered that this test usually goes up in excess of half a million times before it breaks apart. They do the tests to simulate the usage on the part for a five year period. This reminded me of when I learned of the various tests a car goes through before it hits the road. The test has to simulate the entire life of a car, much like they were testing for the entire life of the specific part of the headset or the terminal. After we toured all throughout the labs, we settled back in his office so he could show me his Pro-E drawings he had for the headset. Someone other than him was in charge of drawing the terminal. I asked him how long it took him to make such a detailed sketch of the headset. He said that this design took him a little over two hundred days to complete because he had to design all the small components that make up the headset, then he had to assemble them all together. By this time it was now time for a brief meeting about the upcoming month of December with the customer before the big, weekly, two-hour long meeting. The brief meeting was only a half hour but, a lot of stuff was said and discussed. They had the customer on the phone so he could put in his voice in the meeting. In this meeting, something major was brought up. Since, in Chinese culture, they give the entire country the last two weeks of our American calendar year off for the Chinese New Year’s, a time constraint was evident because nothing would be able to get done from December 23-January 1. What made matters worse is that the customer would be out of his office three days earlier, December 20. Thus essentially putting the project on hold until the New Year. With only twenty-seven days remaining until the customer shuts down for the year, things at Vollect will be very hectic. Now it was time for the long meeting, which I was already warned of at the beginning of the day. I was introduced and welcomed warmly by Bob’s fellow employees. Bob and his boss, Rich, presented to the other designers on the project design team. For two hours, they deliberated over how they could improve on the present drawing by going over every square inch of the drawing. After the meeting it was time for lunch. After we got back from lunch, Bob let me try out the Pro-E program on his computer. With my knowledge of the program from my CAD class, Pro-E came naturally to me. I told him about how in the CAD class we are designing a model replica of the old Civic Arena. He asked if I had any drawings made in Pro-E and I said, â€Å"No. Just a program called AutoCAD. † He offered his assistance and we both began working on a design for the Civic Arena. It wasn’t difficult for him to design it since he’s had so much experience with the program and that’s pretty much all he does most of the day. The only part that proved to be difficult was that every five minutes or so the program would crash without us saving the drawing. We learned that after the fifth time of crashing that we should start saving our drawing after every little thing we do. After roughly two and a half hours of messing around with the program and drawing, we had ourselves a not-to-scale model of the Civic Arena. This helped me out greatly because now I can take what I learned from Bob about the Pro-E program back to the CAD class and draw up the scale model of the Civic Arena. Interview Q&A Interview Q&A 1. What influenced you to become a mechanical engineer? What influenced me the most was that I wanted to be a guy who designs things for people and I could go to the store and say that, â€Å"I designed that! † 2. Was mechanical engineering your first choice as a major or was it a second option? Mechanical engineering was, in fact, my first choice of major. Right from my junior year in high school I was destined to be a mechanical engineer. 3. What sub-topic of mechanical engineering do you prefer the most? Why? I like all details of my job. I specifically like when I can put all the components of a product together in the Pro-E program. . What can a person like you contribute to a company such as Vocollect? I am pretty much the person who puts all of the parts together so the company and the customer can view what they want. I pretty much make the final drawing of the product and my boss puts his input in and I make changes. The final drawing then gets sent to the customer for a pproval and then we manufacture the product. So I am a pretty big factor in the company. 5. How would you approach a problem/set back that this field would present to you? Most of the problems that I have are with the computer program. It will always crash and close before I get the chance to save my work. I call tech support but whatever they do never works. Another problem that I may encounter would be when my co-workers/boss have revisions for a certain part of a product drawing. We have a meeting specifically for this. We go through every square inch of the drawing and everyone says what they think they’d do to improve on the drawing. I take notes on their improvements and then after the meetings I go back to my office and revise the drawing to suit their needs. 6. Is this your ideal/dream job? If not, what would it be? My ideal/dream job would have to be the president of the United States. I always wanted to have such immense power. I wanted to become president until I found out that they don’t get paid an entirely large amount of money. And that my public speaking skills aren’t that great so, I would not do well in getting the American people to vote for me. The job I have now is my true job. It’s where I am destined to be, in my opinion. I’ve come to know some really great people from working at Vocollect. 7. What are your short-term and long-term goals as an employee of Vocollect? My short-term goals is hoping that the Chinese company were designing this headset for will be pleased with the design. Once they approve of the drawings, it’ll feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I’ve been working on this project for almost a year now. It’s sort of a bittersweet moment that the project is almost over, in my area of expertise. As for any long-term goals, I have none yet at the moment. When I get my next design project, my goal will to get the designs done within the given amount of time. 8. Where do you see yourself in five years’ time? In five years, I see myself sitting in this same seat. I have no plans for moving up in the company ladder. I’m perfectly content with where I’m at now. 9. If you were needed to relocate across the country, Oregon, would you accept the offer? Why or why not? Even though this hasn’t been a something on my mind, yet (knock on wood), I believe that I would not take the opportunity for the fact that I would have to give up my friends and family for my job. You can always find another job, but you can’t find another best friend. Even if it was for a significant increase in my pay, I would not take the offer. 10. How did your schooling in college prepare you to be a mechanical engineer for Vocollect? My schooling prepared me immensely for my involvement at Vocollect industries. I took two years of undergrad work at the University of Pennsylvania. I then moved up to the main campus of the school to complete my work to earn my bachelor of engineering degree. I am now in pursuit of gaining my masters in order to receive to a bonus in my paycheck. With the amount of schooling I have, I am fairly confident that I’ll be able to do wondrous things for Vocollect. 11. What comes to mind when you think of the word, â€Å"success†? When I think of success, I think of myself being content with my life, i. e. health, financial, etc. Success also means that I’m happy with where I’m at in life. I’m very healthy, I’m financially stable, I have friends who love me dearly. I think that I’m pretty successful in my life, according to my definition. I’m sure if you ask anyone else, they would give you a completely different answer. 12. What kind of outside experiences aided to your success in mechanical engineering? There’s only one notable outside experience that has aided to my success and that’s how I handle with criticism from my co-workers. I slowly came to accepting their criticism after my first project with Vocollect. 13. If you weren’t a mechanical engineer, what other profession would you seek? Why? If I wasn’t a mechanical engineer, I would want to be someone who would work for PennDOT, and that would be a civil engineer. I would want to work for PennDOT mainly because they make so much money and I’m a guy who likes to have money. 14. What would you consider to be your most influential accomplishment? My most influential accomplishment would have to be the day of which I graduated from college. This was a big day for me in that I came to the realization that I can now become a true mechanical engineer. All of my hard work and hours of study has finally paid off. 15. What positions within Vocollect are you hoping to reach or are you content with the position that you’re at now? With the current position I am at now, I am happy with where I’m at. I don’t see myself progressing up the job title chart. If I was to get a promotion, I would have to move to a different part of the office and have to leave my friends who I’ve grown within the company. I don’t think I’m ready for that kind of a change yet. 16. What would be some adjectives that would describe you? Some adjectives to describe me would be: creative, innovative, accepting, and courageous. I think of myself as creative because I have to be able to compile a three-dimensional drawing to present to my bosses. I’m innovative in that I can take an existing product on the market and make changes to it to make it better. I’m accepting in that I can accept people’s (my bosses) criticism and not get overly worked about it. I think of myself as being courageous in that I can take â€Å"leaps of faith† in my drawings depending on the product we’re designing, I’ll try to implement some of my own ideas into the drawing. 17. When on the job hunt, what kind of factors played a role in selecting the right company? In making my decision to work at Vocollect, I thought of mainly two deciding factors. The first one being the amount of money that I’ll be making on an annual basis. I used this factor because I don’t want to be working an insane amount of hours and not getting paid generously for it. With Vocollect, I’m able to make enough money to support myself and I can still have some extra money to do whatever I want to. The other factor in choosing Vocollect was close proximity to my house. Vocollect is less than fifteen minutes from my house. This makes it easy on me for when it comes to fueling my car. This helped very much during the recession a few years back. I saved loads of money just by having only a less than ten mile commute to work. 18. Have you had any previous jobs before this one? If so, what was/were it/they and what made you leave that job? Before finally settling down at working with Vocollect, I worked at Kennywood Park to help me pay my way through college. I left my duties at Kennywood to pursue my career as a mechanical engineer. Working at Kennywood helped me in that how I deal with working with a group of people to do a common job. 19. What was your least favorite and favorite subject(s) while in school? Why? My favorite subject while going through school would have to be my history classes. I liked history because, if it wasn’t for the past, we wouldn’t be here in the present. We need the past to occur, both mistakes and heroics, which shaped our present. My least favorite subject during my high school career would have to be my math classes. I never liked working with variables and problems that took more than ten minutes to do or an entire page to do. I also didn’t like my English classes. It was a difficulty for me to understand what I was reading for just about every story we read. 20. What went into your decision making process when prompted the question, â€Å"What do you want to be when you grow up? † When I first heard of this question, when I was 10, I wanted to be a professional baseball player since I played baseball. As I grew up it slowly developed to working with machines. Then, finally, it became that I wanted to be an engineer. I went after the fact that I wanted to be a mechanical engineer to find a job to get me through high school and college. I was lucky enough to land me a job at Kennywood Park my junior year in high school. I worked there through the rest of high school and throughout my four years of college. Lucky for me, working at Kennywood helped me in understanding how a complex machine, such as a roller coaster, works and functions under such intense forces. 21. What role does technology play in mechanical engineering? Technology plays an important role in mechanical engineering for various reasons. For what I do, without the use of technology, I would have to draw all of my designs by hand which would be a pain in the backside because; my art skills aren’t that great and no one would be able to understand what I draw. With technology, I’m able to take my three-dimensional drawing in the Pro-E program and take it down to a three-dimensional printer and create a prototype of the product to see my drawing in reality instead of through a computer screen. I’ll admit that there are times that I wish I would free-hand my drawings instead of on the computer (whenever the program crashes). And there are times were I just lose track of time by drawing on the computer. Conclusion Conclusion With the combination of job shadowing and researching what goes on in the mechanical engineering field, I can say that I am pleased with what I will be able to do in my near future. After job shadowing a true mechanical engineer to get a feel of what I will be doing, I can honestly say that I can see myself being a mechanical engineer. After doing much intensive research, my amount of salary on an annual basis will be sufficient in repaying my student loans before I turn thirty, my primary objective once I get out of college. I feel that being a mechanical engineer could be really interesting since I get to render two-dimensional objects and envision them in the third-dimension. I did, believe it or not, think about a different job, but I’m hoping I don’t have to go to that resort. I only thought about this for a roughly short amount of time. I thought about how I could possibly be a structural engineer. This, I think, will act as my fallback option in case if I don’t make in the mechanical engineering field. At first, I wanted to be a structural engineer, believe it or not, but then I did some of my own separate research and found out that there aren’t too many job openings that are within fifty miles of Pittsburgh. Then, with that job plan on the â€Å"back burner†, I decided that I wanted to be the next best thing, a mechanical engineer. As I did some of my own research about mechanical engineering to find that there are several job openings that are within a twenty mile radius of the city of Pittsburgh. After doing this research, I immediately turned my attention to becoming a mechanical engineer and seeing which colleges would offer me the opportunity to get a degree in mechanical engineering. I feel that I could provide the mechanical engineering world with great knowledge of usage of technology that goes into mechanical engineering. ? Career Plan Career Plan Starting with right after graduation, my parents and family are rewarding my twelve years of hard work by accompanying me on a trip to Disney in Orlando, Florida. When I get back home, I will be on the job hunt to hopefully pay for some of my college tuition. During the summer, I hope to find an internship at some company that would further enhance my knowledge of mechanical engineering even before I go to college. Some obstacles that will probably keep my ego down would be the fact that I get bored too easily with one thing. I will have to overcome this obstacle if I want to become a mechanical engineer since most of their day involves someone sitting at a computer all day. I hope that this weakness of mine won’t play a negative role in my future. For example, I wouldn’t want my short attention span to make me change my choice of a major because I got bored with what I was doing. If it happens, it happens. You can’t mess around with what fate has to say about your life choices. I think the most training I would get to become a mechanical engineer would be from a college of engineering. Since that school would specifically be focused on engineering. After this said training in college, I hope to be able to jump right into a job that will have a good salary. As long as I’m a mechanical engineer, it doesn’t matter what the pay is. What matters is that I’ll be satisfied with myself of where I came thus far. I also hope that with a modest salary, I’ll hopefully be able to pay off any student loans of which I may acquire during my time in college. In conclusion, I’ll be happy with whatever company I work for as long as I’m long as I get to do something that involves mechanical engineering. Article â€Å"A† Summary Patrick Rogers’ article, â€Å"Vertical Leap† is an interesting article about the evolution of mechanical engineering through an example that is used in our everyday lives, an elevator. The elevator as we know today wasn’t invented until 1852 by an Elisha Graves Otis. Today’s elevators now come in all sizes and shapes to suit our everyday needs, to give a perspective as to where this engineering feat has gone in the past 150 years. The whole idea of a skyscraper is linked to the elevator itself because, no one would want to climb up fifty flights of stairs to get to their offices day in and day out. Elevators have been used upon many occasions by many notable monarchs over the course of history. For example, Louis XV had an elevator constructed at his palace in Versailles to whisk him around to all sorts of the castle because the castle was of enormous size. As the evolution of machines progressed, the use of â€Å"muscle power† was being drawn out after being used since the Industrial Revolution. Otis displayed the elevator invention to the world at America’s first world’s fair in New York in 1854. Everyone who saw the exhibit was in awe of its sleek design. The invention of the elevator almost didn’t happen because, Otis was in financial ruins and thought about leaving New York to go west to the Gold Rush in hopes that he would get rich off that. Otis’ exhibit displayed him on the platform of one of his steam-driven hoist and slowly began to rise above the crowd, awing them all. When Otis died in 1861, he left his heirs in financial debt but, he left his schematics of an elevator that was constructed so that if the rope breaks from the platform, it cannot freefall to the ground. A new man to the scene by the name of, Otis Tufts (no relation to previous Otis), developed upon Otis’ previous ideas to create an elevator that was roomy enough to carry up to a dozen guests. Reliable steam lifts soon adorned the lobbies of hotels throughout much of the U. S. and thus, the elevator had become a new material item in which business-owners could employ in their stores to move people throughout their store more efficiently. It wasn’t until 1870 that the thought of a silent elevator had begun to surface. Prior to 1870, elevators were powered by large steam pistons and pulleys which were loud and annoying for tenants of apartments of lived on the lower levels of the building. Especially dramatic was the transformations of major cities throughout the country. Many cities began construction on skyscrapers, capable of using elevators. The construction of the Otis elevator can still be viewed, not in a building, but in a home in North Carolina. This shows that Otis’ designs were able to withstand the test of time. In the 1800s, the thought of using panoramic views as a mean of romance wasn’t thought of. The Golden Age of elevators didn’t occur until the 20th century, when the world was beginning to look ahead to the future. In 1903, Otis introduced a gearless traction elevator, a quantum leap for the time. With this new elevator contraption, the secret to building true skyscrapers was defined, by eliminating the need for the cumbersome winding drums. During the Jazz Age, elevator design seemed to pulsate with the energy of the time period. The next big improvement of the elevator came when people figured out how to manage the flow of people on and off of elevators. These people, known as operators, became a popular breed of people. Improvements in technology of the elevator came during World War II by a team of Otis aiding Westinghouse, Cmp. Otis’ work could be compared to that of Henry Ford in the automobile industry. Every so often, Otis et al would try and come up with ways to improve on the previous design of the elevator. Sort of like how Apple does with their iOS devices. Today, cranes hoist the metal gears into place and construction workers assemble the shaft on the job site. The cost of a full elevator system could run you about in excess of fifteen million dollars. Article â€Å"B† Summary James Lissaint’s article, entitled, â€Å"Mechanical Engineering and Why We Need It† encompasses the true value of mecahnical engineering and the progression of the field. He also describes how the field will be able to grow in the future, as long as there is an interest for it. Mechanical engineering, when talking about it, is a very broad topic. There are many subdivisions within the field itself. Mecahnical engineering is vital in the construction of large structures (i. e. skyscrapers, bridges, etc. ) as well as new-age gadgets. This form of engineering can be dated back to ancient Greek, with their invention of the steam engine. It came to the center of discussion and modern society during the Industrial Revolution. Since its beginning, this field has undergone numerous enhancements thanks in part to the advancements in modern technology. With the help of high school physics, a small understanding of mechanical engineering basics will be known in the form of kinematics and mechanics. Mechanical engineering looks at engines in several different, yet efficient, ways. For starters, the steam engine helped to develop the world into a modern society. The idea that the steam engine could be used in motor vehicles really helped the development of transportation systems. Since then, a wide variety of engines have been produced, with diesel and petrol being the most common forms of an engine. It’s essential to know that mechanical engineering is a very broad field with many different subfields that interconnect with one another. Modern society has progressed with topics such as robotics, thermodynamics, and kinematics. The most technical field of mechanical engineering is robotics. These robots, neither human nor animals, are used in a number of practical applications throughout the manufacturingn industry. Lots of companies look for the involvemnt of robots to aide in their assembly line to quicken their production speed to gain a higher profit. Mechanical engineering plays a major role in how, and if, the robot will be able to function properly. June 24, 2016 Sean Robertson Engineer Aerotek CE 15200 Santa Fe Trail Drive, Suite 100 Lenexa, KS, 66219 Dear Mr. Robertson, Having done an internship for your company for the past two years, I believe that my involvement in your company would be a positive thing. Once I heard that there would be a job opening at the time of my completion of my internship, I immediately started to think out my options for the future. With my internship nearly complete, it is time that I look for a full-time job and this was the first company I thought of working for. Through my schooling at Temple University, I feel that I would be an excellent addition to Aerotek as an engineer. Temple was able to provide me with the necessary knowledge to further my interest in engineering. With a â€Å"big-name† company like Aerotek, I thought it would be rather fascinating to work for your company. And with my experience with all the design programs, I believe I could be a key asset for Aerotek’s future in the engineering world. I believe that I would be the best fit for the position because; when I was young I knew that I wanted to be a structural engineer. I was destined to be one, per say. While I was in high school, I worked for Kennywood Park in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania as a ride operator. My duties included making sure the park’s several roller coasters were structurally safe for the days Anschluss of people and forces being applied to it. A major accomplishment of mine would be that in my entire two years of working there, none of the rides I inspected the morning before the park opened, never broke down. This won me an award known as the Most Reliable Worker. I won this both years I worked there. I would be ecstatic if I was selected to hold this position at Aerotek. The best time frame to reach me for a personal interview is when I’m off for holiday break, December 12 thru January 6. I hope that we’ll be meeting in the near future. Sincerely, Objective: A mechanical engineer were my experience in 3-D CAD, GD&T design, and a solid edge modeling experience would be sufficiently tested. Strengths: * Excellent use of a three-dimensional CAD. * Ability to work under strict time constraints * Ability to work in Excel to provide accurate budgets for each project * Works more efficiently under stressful conditions Ability to keep up with improvements in technology in the ever-growing field Honors: * Product launch: newer headset for manufacturing industry * Article publication: â€Å"Engineers of Today† * High honors, Penn State University School of engineering * Internship: Vocollect industries Employment: Internship: Mechanical Engineering, 2012-Present Vocollect Industries, Penn Hills, Pennsylvania. Aided in drafting various prod ucts for customers around the world. Gave in my words of advice during meetings about each product drawing. Brought more business to the company by my propaganda skills. Ride Operator: 2009-2012 Kennywood Park, West Mifflin, Pennsylvania- observed and repaired roller coaster and thrill rides throughout the park on a daily basis from early May to late September; working at least 10-hour shifts daily during the summer months. Rides were at peak performance whenever I was on the clock. Education: June 2016: School of Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, State College, Pennsylvania B. A. in Mechanical Engineering Specialization: 3D CAD program Bibliography Bibliography Aerotek. Advertisement. Structural Engineer Job in Overland Park. Aertek. Monster. com, 31 Aug. 2011. Web. 21 Sept. 2011. . Bureau of Labor Statistics, U. S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Engineers, on the Internet at http://www. bls. gov/oco/ocos027. htm (visited September 21,2011) Camenson, Blythe. Real People Working in Engineering. Lincolnwood, IL: VGM Career Horizons, 1998. Print. Dick, Chris J. â€Å"Job Shadowing. † Personal interview. 23 Nov. 2011. Hutchinson, Jonathon. â€Å"Mechanical Engineering Job Outlook: Employment and Salary Information. † Job Outlook: Employment and Salary. Online Degrees, 2006. Web. 23 Sept. 2011. http://www. onlinedegrees. org/calculator/salary/mechanical-engineers Lissaint, James. â€Å"Mechanical Engineering and Why We Need It. † gEzine Articles, 2011. Web. 4 Nov. 2011. . Rogers, Patrick. â€Å"Vertical Leap. † Preservation. May/June 1998: 52-61. SIRS Renaissance. Web. 23 Sept. 2011. Vocollect. Advertisement. Mechanical Engineer-Design Engineer-Engineer. Monster. com, 21 Sept. 2011. Web. 21 Sept. 2011. .