#EngineeringAtNUVA is a series that highlights talented engineers who make up NuVasive Engineering. Every feature will have a unique set of questions to give you the most diverse knowledge into Engineering at NUVA including roles within Manufacturing, Development, Software, and Electrical Engineering. The series is for students interested in the field, for prospective engineers who want to understand our culture, and for those intrigued to meet some of our incredibly intelligent Shareowners!
Our next feature for #EngineeringAtNUVA is Josh, Sr. Manufacturing Engineer, Production, in our West Carrollton facility!
Josh, why did you choose to work as an Engineer in the Medical Device industry versus other industries?
Working in Medical Device allows me to contribute toward improving the lives of less fortunate individuals. It gives me pride in my work and a great feeling at the end of the day.
How long have you been at NUVA?
I have worked at NuVasive for nearly eight months as a Sr. Manufacturing Engineer.
Is there a specific class or skill that you wish you took or learned prior to graduating college that would positively impact your work today?
More communication classes! Engineering is more than just problem solving—it’s key to be able to communicate solutions and processes to your team members.
What was your path from realizing you wanted to be an Engineer to working at NuVasive today?
I have always excelled at Math and Science, and was steered early on into engineering because of this. I attended the Ohio State University for Biomedical Engineering at first, then changed majors to Materials Science (Biomaterials) in my second year. I landed my first job as a Manufacturing Engineer with a local small business making synthetic 3D environments for cell culturing. While working there, I went back to school to get my Master’s Degree in Materials Science. After earning my graduate degree, I went to work for a national tissue bank in Virginia Beach as a Process Engineer, involved heavily with improving cryo-storage of spine implants and creating processes of safe transport of living tissues around the globe. I found a great opportunity to work for NuVasive in late 2017, which has allowed me to return to Ohio and live closer to my family.
Can you share what inspired you to pursue Engineering?
I have always enjoyed challenges and puzzles growing up. Engineering is similar to working through different puzzles every day.
For those deciding on which type of engineering path to pursue, what would be your advice?
Pursue a passion—not a paycheck.
Finally, what makes Engineering at NuVasive unique in your opinion?
The day-to-day variability and fast paced environment means I am always provided with challenges to grow and develop as a problem solver and an engineer.
Interested in the engineering field at NuVasive? Learn about open roles and what it takes to be an engineer with NUVA by clicking here.