Have you ever walked out of a job interview feeling like you just got hit by a freight train? Yeah, me too. The interview was for a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) engineering position, and let's just say it didn't go as planned. As I replayed every awkward moment in my head, I couldn't help but wonder: am I too young for this job? Spoiler alert: the answer is a resounding no.
Picture this: I walk into the interview room, armed with my shiny new degree and a head full of fresh knowledge about PLCs. I'm confident, I've got this. The interviewer starts with some basic questions—so far, so good. But then, the questions get tougher, and I can see the skepticism growing in their eyes. "Have you ever managed a large-scale PLC project?" Well, no, but I've done some impressive simulations in my university lab! "Do you have experience leading a team?" Not quite, but I've been the go-to person for group projects!
As the interview progresses, I can feel the tide turning against me. It's not that I don't know my stuff; it's just that my experience is mostly theoretical. I try to explain my enthusiasm for the field, my willingness to learn, and my passion for automation. But all the interviewer seems to see is a fresh-faced newbie who's never been in the trenches of a real-world PLC project. I leave the interview with a polite handshake and a sinking feeling in my stomach.
So, what now? Did I just waste four years of studying for a career that's going to dismiss me because of my age? Absolutely not. Let's break it down. First things first: age is just a number. What I might lack in experience, I more than make up for in eagerness, fresh perspectives, and up-to-date knowledge. Remember, every seasoned engineer started exactly where I am now—young and full of potential.
Instead of wallowing in self-doubt, I decided to take action. I reached out to some mentors in the field, seasoned PLC engineers who have been through the same struggles. Their advice was invaluable. They emphasized the importance of gaining hands-on experience, even if it means starting with smaller projects or internships. They reminded me that every big opportunity often starts with a series of smaller, seemingly insignificant ones.
I also took the initiative to work on personal projects. I purchased a small PLC kit and started automating things around my home. It's amazing how much you can learn by actually doing. These mini-projects weren't just fun, they were also incredibly educational. I documented everything—every success, every failure, and every lesson learned. This not only built my confidence but also provided me with a portfolio of real-world experience to show in future interviews.
But it wasn't just about technical skills. I also realized the importance of soft skills—communication, teamwork, and leadership. I started volunteering for roles that required these skills, be it organizing events or leading study groups. I knew that being a successful PLC engineer wasn't just about knowing the technology; it was also about working well with people and leading projects effectively.
So, am I too young to be a PLC engineer? Absolutely not. That failed interview was just a stepping stone, a learning experience that pushed me to become better. It taught me that while age and experience can be beneficial, they are not the sole determinants of success. Passion, continuous learning, and proactiveness are equally, if not more, important.
To all the young aspiring PLC engineers out there, don't let one failed interview discourage you. Use it as fuel to improve, to grow, and to prove that you have what it takes. The industry needs fresh minds like ours, and with persistence and passion, there's no limit to what we can achieve. So, let's keep pushing forward, one project at a time. After all, every expert was once a beginner.