Meet Our Team – Engineering Stories from the Inside. Featuring Maria Andrea Alvarez, Industrial Design Engineer at Engibex
In this edition of “Meet Our Team”, we speak with one of our consultants currently working as an industrial designer in the pharmaceutical sector. With a background in mechanical engineering and a growing set of project management skills, she shares how consultancy with Engibex has expanded her career horizons.
1. Personal & Career Start
“Tell us more about your expertise and the direction you are working on“
I studied mechanical engineering and hold a master’s in advanced solid mechanics. I have previous work experience as a product development engineer, which required similar skills to my current position.
I’m currently working as an industrial designer. My task is to transform a customer demand, which comes through a salesperson, into a machine offered in our current catalogue. We must recommend a solution based on the options we currently offer, but sometimes we need to develop new parts to meet customer needs.
As an industrial designer, my job is to supply sales with a technical drawing that showcases our machine, its features, and dimensions. Additionally, I remain the mechanical engineering support throughout the production phase, including problem-solving and quality control.
I primarily work with SolidWorks to model our machines and options, confirm the feasibility of the proposed solution, and validate the bill of materials for production. Recently, I’ve also had the opportunity to take on some tasks as a project engineer, which has allowed me to develop new skills such as communication, negotiation, and flexibility.
“What motivated you to join a consulting firm like Engibex rather than an in-house engineering team?“
Joining a consultancy company never crossed my mind until a job fair held at my university. The Engibex team was so organized and proactive that it made me feel stable enough to consider joining. Later on, the benefits of being part of a consultancy company were highlighted—like the flexibility, guidance throughout the process, and different project options. It really gives me a sense of freedom.
“Have you always been curious about different sectors, or is that something you discovered here?“
I discovered that with Engibex. Because of the university where I did my bachelor’s and the industry around it, I always felt pushed toward the automotive sector. But with Engibex, I got to explore other areas and the opportunities they bring.
2. Company Culture & Flexibility
“Engibex encourages initiative and ownership—how have you experienced this entrepreneurial mindset?“
Every day at work. We have a system of a general task bin, and we are encouraged to complete everything on time as a team. It’s up to us to keep the KPIs on track, which demands both initiative and ownership.
“What kind of support do you receive from the internal team when switching projects or industries?“
I haven’t switched projects yet, but given the support I had during my initial interviews and the support I currently receive, I’d imagine that support would be well-rounded—questions answered, helpful feedback, tips, and fast responses.
“How does the flat structure at Engibex impact communication and decision-making in your experience?“
It’s really nice because it helps move things along faster, especially when an important procedure needs to be done or when questions arise.
3. Project Exposure & Versatility
“Can you walk us through a particularly exciting project you’ve worked on here?“
My current project is exciting. It allows me to work in the pharmaceutical sector, which on its own is an exciting field and makes me feel like I’m doing something meaningful. Additionally, it has allowed me to take on other roles, like project management, which are new to me. It’s expanding my skill set and definitely keeps things interesting.
4. Growth in Consultancy
“How does working in a consultancy company help you build both hard and soft skills?“
Projects naturally demand the development of your current skill set. Every company has its own way of working, which means you’re constantly learning and asking questions. The soft skills grow organically in consultancy, because you keep meeting new people, and that forces you to develop them.
“What technical or interpersonal skill have you developed most during your time with Engibex?“
Project management, for sure. And when it comes to interpersonal skills—definitely communication and openness to feedback. That’s a must in any job, but especially in consultancy.
5. Final Thoughts
“What would you tell someone who thinks consultancy is unstable or too demanding?“
That, in my experience, consultancy is the opposite. If you’re in the right company, it actually makes you feel more stable and excited about what’s next.
“Why would you choose Engibex again if starting fresh?“
Great team, great environment, and good benefits.
