This week, let’s get to know Tom Fryer. Find out what inspired him to become an engineer and what he would take with him if he was stranded on an island.
What inspired you to become an engineer?
I grew up near Edwards AFB which is the home of the Air Force Test Center, where they conduct extensive research and development on aircraft and flight systems. My best friend’s father was the chief test engineer for flight operations and often invited the two of us to observe different system and flight tests. We got to observe experimental aircraft, wind tunnel tests, engine test, and even the space shuttle. Afterward I would rush off to the library (before the Internet) and spend countless hours learning about the science of what we had observed. It wasn’t much longer before I converted my parent’s garage into my own engineering lab and started creating my own engineering projects. That passion to explore and learn new things is what led me to become an engineer.
How do you approach teaching an online class versus a traditional ground class?
Multi-mode interactions are the key. In a traditional class, students have the advantage of fully interacting with the instructor and their classmates. For on-line students, I prefer to be as interactive with them as possible. That means that not just the lectures, but the ability to interact with me using whatever mode of communication works best for them; email, virtual interactive class sessions, phone calls, or one-on-one virtual sessions. Additionally, I like to create activities using virtual groups (much like we use groups in the classroom) to foster interaction between the students as well.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
You should always learn something new every day and you can learn something new from everyone you meet.
What was your first engineering role? How did that shape who you have become?
My first engineering role was with the USAF as a system engineer working on the new GPS program. My responsibilities included the implementation, test, and evaluation of the ground stations around the world that were used to communicate and control the fleet of satellites. Like most engineers I was utterly focused on the myriad of tasks required to assemble, test, and operate these ground stations. What really stuck out was the amount of logistics and maintenance support required for these large systems. It required a lot of planning, people, and coordination. As a result it gave me a larger perspective as an engineer, and I learned that to truly succeed as an engineer I needed to look at the bigger picture.
What are your current research interests?
Engineering management and the interface between engineering and economics concerning the design and operations of systems.
If you had only one word to describe yourself, what would it be?
Inquisitive
If you were on an island and could only bring three things, what would you bring?
Hmmm…..lots of duct tape, a knife, and another boat