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The Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering presents its MMAE 593 seminar series featuring guest speaker James “Jim” Grudzinski, directorate operations officer for Argonne National Laboratory’s Physical Sciences and Engineering (PSE) directorate. Grudzinski will present “Engineering to Management: A Career Path for Engineers.” This seminar is open to the public and will take place on Wednesday, February 4, from 12:45–1:45 p.m. in room 104 of the Rettaliata Engineering Center (RE-104).

Abstract

The transition from technical roles to management positions is a common progression for engineers, but it can also be a deliberate career choice for those seeking leadership opportunities. This seminar explores both pathways, offering practical insights on how to prepare for and succeed in management roles. Using my own career trajectory as a case study—from early management and technical roles at United Parcel Service (UPS), where I gained foundational experience in operations and system improvements, to senior leadership positions at Argonne National Laboratory—I will illustrate how engineers can leverage their technical expertise to assume greater organizational responsibilities. The discussion will highlight deliberate steps for pursuing management careers, as well as how managerial responsibilities can emerge naturally as engineers grow in their organizations. The seminar will address four key aspects: (1) the inevitability of managerial responsibilities for most engineers as they progress in their careers; (2) attributes of engineering training—such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration—that transfer effectively to management; (3) gaps in traditional engineering education, including financial acumen and leadership skills, that must be addressed for successful management careers; and (4) strategies for developing these competencies through education, mentorship, and professional development. Attendees will gain actionable advice on career planning, leadership development, and navigating the transition from engineering to management. Whether management is a desired outcome or a natural progression, this seminar will provide valuable guidance for multiplying impact through leadership.

Biography

James “Jim” Grudzinski is the directorate operations officer for Argonne National Laboratory’s Physical Sciences and Engineering (PSE) directorate, where he leads strategic and operational efforts to support high-impact research programs across multiple scientific disciplines. With more than 25 years of experience spanning engineering, operations, and leadership, Grudzinski has successfully transitioned from technical roles to senior management positions. Grudzinski’s engineering experience includes high-speed machine design, industrial control systems, structural component, finite element analysis, and the fabrication of large-scale physics detectors. He has contributed to and managed technical teams for several major High Energy Physics projects, including MINOS, NOvA, and Mu2e, and has collaborated with international laboratories and universities. In his management roles, Grudzinski has led diverse teams ranging from tradespeople to expert consultants, overseeing both technical and operational functions. His leadership experience includes developing strategic plans, managing budgets, and fostering collaborations with industry, universities, and national laboratories. Grudzinski holds a B.A. in Physics from the University of Illinois-�鶹APP and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology.