February 23, 2024 by SME Communications Who is David Chamblee? I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in applied engineering technology from North Carolina A&T State University. With thirty years of experience in the field of quality engineering, I have worked for several Fortune 500 companies such as TE Connectivity, Raytheon Technologies Corporation, British American Tobacco, Cargill, Inc., Campbell Soup Company, and Hunt Wesson, Inc. My certifications include Black Belt Six Sigma Leader, AS 9100 Lead Auditor, and ISO 9001 Lead Auditor. Additionally, I hold a PhD in leadership studies, with my dissertation focusing on leadership and six sigma, which has been published (Chamblee, D.L. (2014). An assessment of leadership traits and the success of six sigma projects. In E.G. Tetteh & B.M. Uzochukwu (Eds.), Lean Six Sigma Approaches in Manufacturing, Services, and Production (pp.268-300). Hershey, PA: IGI Global). Given the demanding nature of engineering, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. I dedicate 50 to 60 hours per week to work. I've found balance by refraining from work-related tasks during weekends and reserving that time for cherished moments with family and friends. I also prioritize hobbies such as golfing, hitting the gym, and enjoying movies. David's Career Journey Growing up in poverty fueled my ambition to pursue a career in engineering, which was a field in high demand and offered lucrative pay. This drive led me to specialize in quality engineering after completing a two-year engineering rotational program at TE Connectivity. I found immense satisfaction in analyzing data to enhance processes. Among the accomplishments in which I take great pride are leading six sigma teams, both domestically and globally, that resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars of savings for TE Connectivity. We redesigned a relay afflicted by intermittent issues caused by particles. Another success story was resolving a stamping part serration issue stemming from improper measuring methodologies. During my career in engineering, I faced obstacles in terms of promotions and equitable pay, largely stemming from my race as an African American. I overcame these challenges guided by my creed: Faith + Hard Work + Dedication = Success Staying Ahead of Technological Advances I stay up to date with the latest technological advancements and trends in quality engineering by maintaining active memberships with the American Society of Quality (ASQ) and SME. Additionally, I regularly participate in conferences like the Lean Six Sigma Conference and the World Conference on Quality and Improvement, where I not only attend sessions but also present my insights and findings. Motivation and Passion I am motivated to continue working in the engineering field, transitioning from a thirty-year career in corporate America to now embarking on research endeavors as an assistant professor, working with students, faculty, and industry leaders at my alma mater, North Carolina A&T State University. In my role, I foster innovation and creativity among students by using active learning strategies. This involves organizing students into teams, arranging plant tours, inviting subject matter experts to lecture in my classroom, facilitating alumni engagement panels, and coordinating student peer internship panels. Additionally, I'm spearheading the establishment of a state-of-the-art metrology lab, providing students with opportunities to learn and engage in cutting-edge research. Advice to Aspiring Engineers My advice to college students aspiring to pursue a career in engineering is to aim for a GPA of 3.0 or higher, actively participate in at least two internships or co-op programs, and take on leadership roles in at least two student organizations. Additionally, it's beneficial to become a member of at least one professional organization in the field.
