Nick Stidham, 25, earned his associate degree in applied science for advanced engineering design technology at Bevill State Community College. While attending school, he began working as a draftsman and assistant to professional civil engineers at Krebs Engineering, where he expanded his knowledge of pump design and sharpened his technical skills by working with various types of computer-aided design (CAD) software. Several years later, he transitioned to SEPCO, taking on roles as an applications engineer and draftsman. “My experience at SEPCO has been incredibly diverse, ranging from site surveys and seal application design (including drafting in AutoCAD and checking material compatibilities) to training distributors and end-users, assisting with installations and troubleshooting in the field and conducting failure analysis,” he said. “I didn’t know that this niche in the engineering industry was for me at first, and I did not seek it out, but in time, God led me to SEPCO, where I get to do what I always imagined an engineer to be and then some.”
Before getting into the industry, Stidham wishes he would have known how valuable hands-on mechanical knowledge and skills were compared to education obtained in the classroom. “Many believe artificial intelligence can replace those in the industry
with surface-level information, but this does not account for real-world issues such as fitment and other daily obstacles that come with demanding applications. I wish I had more of a background in machining, not just drafting/CAD and other aspects of engineering,” he said.
Stidham is excited that most companies are thirsting for those with experience who are willing to stay diligent and finish things reliably. “My excitement is stirred by working at SEPCO, where our team answers these needs. In addition, there are always new developments in the engineering/manufacturing side of the pump industry, such as metal 3D printing. With the developments, we will be more capable of answering the changing needs of our clients who continue to add complex processes to their production,” he said.
Outside of work, Stidham always finds joy in being out in nature. “It’s a great way to reset and feel connected to creation. Fishing, camping and hiking are always my favorite ways to recharge after a hectic week,” he said. Stidham also added that people may be surprised to learn that he has always been a huge band geek and loves watching Drum Corps International competitions.
What aspects of working in this industry do you find most rewarding?
Meeting and working alongside amazing individuals of all backgrounds who are committed to hard work and doing things the right way the first time. Traveling our beautiful country has been a blessing and we should never take our home for granted.
What do you do to make sure you're continuing your education/training?
I take every opportunity possible to humbly learn from those with more experience than me. There is always a new perspective to be gained from people you meet and new skill to add or build up if you're willing to listen. Most of my continuing education comes from hands-on experience in the field, working to help clients find a solution for their application.
What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of your role?
No application is identical. Most opportunities are earned by those who rise to a challenge no one else has been willing to go the second mile to resolve.
Have you had a mentor(s) who influenced your career development?
I have been under the training of Tommy Seales, Chuck Tanner, Steve Hall and Aaron Sellers at SEPCO, all of whom have provided me with training that has been a significant key to my success in this industry. The skills they have developed and honed over a combined 200 years have never failed to amaze me as I continue to learn from them.
What advice would you give to students considering a career in this industry or newcomers to the workforce?
Be willing to listen to those who share wisdom and are willing to teach you a skill, no matter how simple or unimportant it may seem on the surface level. I have been able to apply many things that seemed irrelevant at the moment and have genuinely been life saving later. Most importantly, commit to a team willing to invest in your continued development, as they can be rare find. There will be good days and bad days, but working through adversity builds strength and you will be more resilient in the future.
What's an accomplishment you're proud of?
Outside of my career, I am most proud of having become an Eagle Scout at 16 years old. I hold being an Eagle Scout dearer to my heart than any degree I have earned due to the years of dedication, great memories and best friends I made during that time. In terms of my career, I was the first in my family to go to college and I worked my way to where I am now, from drafting as a hobby to working in the engineering world, which was only a dream.