ABOUT THIS EPISODE
What if your childhood Lego obsession could turn into designing tech that never sleeps, survives extreme temperatures, and powers AI + autonomous cars?
What if the kid who takes everything apart… is actually showing you their future career?
Most children don’t grow up saying, “I want to be a mechanical engineer.” They say: “I like building things.” “Can I try it my way?” “What happens if we take this apart?”
That’s not mischief. That’s the early sign of an engineer.
In this episode of Books That Build Skills, we talk with Zach Sharpell, a mechanical engineer at Qualcomm, whose work helps power AI systems and autonomous vehicle technology. The hardware he designs must survive extreme heat, freezing temperatures, and run nonstop without failure. This is the real-world side of engineering kids don’t usually get to see.
But here’s what makes this episode powerful for parents and students:
Zach didn’t start with advanced engineering theory. He started with Legos, curiosity, and asking too many questions.
One of the biggest surprises? Creative writing helps him explain complex engineering ideas in ways people understand and get excited about. Communication isn’t extra. It’s essential.
Episode Focus:This episode is about how creativity, curiosity, and communication turn “I like building stuff” into a real engineering career shaping the future of technology.
🎙 Guest Info Name: Zach Sharpell
Title: Mechanical Engineer
Company: Qualcomm
What he really does: Zach designs real physical products that protect and support powerful computer chips used in AI servers and autonomous vehicles. His work makes sure technology can survive heat, cold, nonstop use, and the real world — not just the computer screen.
🔧 Skills Highlighted in This Episode
Creative problem solving
Iteration & design thinking
Public speaking
Active listening
Curiosity-driven learning
Hands-on building
Using AI as a tool, not a crutch
Turning imagination into real products
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📚 What Is Books That Build Skills?
Short Episodes. Real People. Real Careers. Real Skills. Zero Boring Adult Talk. Every episode is a behind-the-scenes look at how incredible careers are built—(industries relevant to this guest)—plus the mistakes, risks, and skills learned along the way. From “I kinda like this…” → “Whoa… I really DID THAT.”
Stories + skills = power.
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If this topic resonated, vote by:
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When certain topics light up, I invite guests back for longer, deeper-dive episodes—walking kids through the full path from middle school → college → career, step by step.
Your engagement helps decide what we build next.
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