Chad Miller

I knew from a young age I wanted to do something in the sciences. Engineering and architecture were especially appealing to me. I used to play with Lego bricks, K’NEX and Construx while watching things like Star Wars, Gundam Wing and The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest. A lot of the shows I watched as a kid told stories about people helping others using technology. I think my brain latched onto that idea!

Today, I’m a supplier quality engineer at Integra Technologies, which is an electronic parts supplier in Wichita. In my role, I help make sure the products and services our company receives from external vendors meet the quality standards our customers deserve. I get to divide my time between reviewing and analyzing data, working in the lab and traveling around the United States to visit our vendors and perform quality audits.

A huge number of industries in America rely on microchip testing done right here in Wichita, and there’s an incredible sense of pride that comes from that. My job lets me use my love of electronics to ensure the highest levels of quality for our customers. Plus, I get to travel around our beautiful nation and meet with highly technical professionals who are some of the most respected and innovative people in their fields.

Being a supplier quality engineer requires a unique kind of engineering because it takes skills and experience that need time to develop. To start preparing, I earned my bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. After graduation, I worked in lighting design and development and got some great hands-on experience in the industry. Then, I worked as a quality engineer for medical device products before transitioning to my current position. There are several ways to go about this path, but for me, those steps set me up for success.

As for getting prepared in high school, I’d suggest any engineering classes offered, woodworking and Advanced Placement English classes. The engineering courses will help you home in on what sector of the industry you’re interested in. Woodworking (or really most shop classes) will teach the fundamental lessons of extreme attention to detail, safety and patience. This field isn’t 100% math and science — English classes help grow reading comprehension and writing skills, which are extremely important.

If you’re considering a career in engineering, be stubborn and be creative. Engineering classes are difficult, and they are designed to make you grow. It won’t be easy, but it’ll be worth it. The world needs more problem-solvers who think outside the box. Find what you enjoy working on, and mix that with how your brain works best. Follow those leads, and you’ll find a rewarding career.

Chad recently moved back to Kansas and took his job with Integra Technologies as part of the Love, Kansas program. Learn more about efforts to get Kansans back to their home state.