Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1529118
68 DESIGN007 MAGAZINE I NOVEMBER 2024 Andy Shaughnessy: Jon, you've already graduated from John's class, and you had a completely non-electronic job before this. How did you get into this? What were you doing before? Jon Smith: I used to be in construction and I got tired of being in pain. Something had to change. I ended up taking classes at Palomar College, specifically draing and design. It wasn't until I started John Watson's class that something just went off in my head. I was instantly intrigued. It was just the craziest thing I've ever seen. Who knew that this career even existed? When you think of a PCB designer, you think "electrical engineer." But you don't have to be an engineer to be a PCB designer. One thing led to another and it's been great. Your wife even called John and said, "Thank you for helping my husband." She really noticed a change in your happiness level. Yes, she did. Working in construction, and being in pain, you act differently. So, once you find yourself again, it impresses other people. You also impress yourself and things get a lot better. What kind of construction were you in? I was in sewer pipe rehabilitation—very nasty, very heavy stuff with very long hours. Working in the middle of the street was very dangerous. All around, it was not a fun place to be. You need the police to put up barricades so you can work. Absolutely, and you're dodging cars every minute. When did you start as a full-time designer? I started as a full-time designer in July of last year. I've been with Frontgrade Aethercomm for about a year and a half. Do you work at home? It's more or less hybrid. I'm typically in the office, but if I'm not feeling good, there's just slow workflow, or I really need to concentrate, I'm allowed to work at home. Where is the office located? It's located in Carlsbad, California. Well, that's pretty nice, Jon. Is there anything else you want to add about your experience of John's class? I want to point out that John's class is really what helped me land a job even before get- ting a degree. I went in for the interview and they saw the boards that I'd done throughout his class. at was an instant "in." is is an in- depth course that covers a lot of material, so it really sets you above a lot of people. John is known for having a pipeline into companies that are hiring. Also, I was told that his cover letter really helped me out. That's great. I know John will do what he can. at's just a testament to the way he teaches; everything helps boost you up. Thanks for telling us your story, Jon. ank you, Andy. DESIGN007 Jon Smith