February 16, 2024 by SME Communications In a world where success is often measured by conventional standards, Robert Malpass, with his unconventional journey and approach to life, stands out as a testament to the power of authenticity and perseverance. From his humble beginnings to his current role as an application engineer at BlueBay Automation, Malpass's story is one of passion, resilience, and continuous learning. Born and raised in a small town, Malpass's early years were marked by a lack of direction and purpose. However, his innate curiosity and love for tinkering led him to discover his passion for engineering and manufacturing. It was during his freshman year at college that Malpass's journey took a significant turn when he enrolled in a class taught by Dr. Sharon Rouse, a mentor who would shape his career path. "Dr. Rouse opened my eyes to the possibilities within the manufacturing industry," recalls Malpass. "Her passion for the subject and dedication to her students inspired me to pursue a career in engineering." Despite facing initial doubts and uncertainties, Malpass found his stride through involvement with organizations like SME. Attending conferences and networking events not only expanded his knowledge but also boosted his confidence in his abilities. It was at SME’s SOUTHTEC event in 2021 that Malpass met the team from BlueBay Automation and later was invited to join the company. "I remember attending the SOUTHTEC conference, and it completely changed my perspective," says Malpass. "Seeing firsthand the innovations and possibilities within the manufacturing sector ignited a fire within me." Malpass's journey with SME didn't end with attending conferences. He actively participated in his college's SME chapter, eventually taking on leadership roles. Through his involvement, he not only honed his technical skills but also developed invaluable leadership and communication abilities. "Being part of SME not only provided me with technical knowledge but also taught me the importance of collaboration and teamwork," reflects Malpass. "It was through SME that I met some of my closest friends and mentors, who supported me every step of the way." One such mentor was Professor Bill McClung, whose guidance and encouragement played a significant role in Malpass's development. "Professor McClung believed in me even when I doubted myself," says Malpass. "His passion for robotics and dedication to his students motivated me to push beyond my limits." Malpass's journey from a timid college student to a confident engineer didn't come without challenges. He faced moments of self-doubt and uncertainty, especially during the tumultuous years of the pandemic. However, through sheer determination and the support of his mentors and peers, he persevered. "I had my fair share of setbacks, but I never let them define me," says Malpass. "Every obstacle was an opportunity to learn and grow." Today, as an application engineer at BlueBay Automation, Malpass continues to embody the values instilled in him through his journey. His role involves a diverse range of tasks, from field support to project work, requiring adaptability and problem-solving skills. "Every day at BlueBay is a new challenge, but I thrive on the opportunity to innovate and make a difference," says Malpass. "Whether it's troubleshooting a technical issue or presenting demos to clients, I approach each task with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn." Looking ahead, Malpass remains committed to his journey of growth and self-discovery. He plans to continue expanding his skill set and contributing to the field of manufacturing through innovation and collaboration. "Success, to me, is not just about achieving goals but also about making a positive impact on others," says Malpass. "I hope to inspire future generations of engineers and manufacturers to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions with courage and conviction." In a world often defined by superficial measures of success, Robert Malpass's story serves as a powerful reminder that true success lies in staying true to oneself, embracing challenges, and never giving up on one's dreams.
