Ryan Schimmel

Cool Gadgets. But Who Are You?

I am an engineer. When people say this, they typically mean that this is their day to day occupation and the subject matter that they have gone to school for. When I say this, I mean it is a lifestyle and personality descriptor. Everything I touch, I aim to make stronger, more efficient and to function more completely — my relationships, vehicles, communication and a 1923 bungalow on the National Register my wife and I cherish and maintain.

My degree from the University of Tennessee and Professional Engineer License from the State of Tennessee has allowed me to do these things as a profession, granting me certification by an educated body that I am skilled and trained in these areas enough to be a professional. While I hold the same credentials as many others, the thought of "engineer" as a personality descriptor above an education is a strong feeling of mine.

One thing I have learned is those that know, are not those that preach. The most fruitful sources of information on any topic I have ever come across are those individuals that are quiet, in the corner. Not from want of keeping to themselves, or from apathy, but because they are observing. Those that have a lifetime of the most valuable knowledge are not going to cram it down your throat. Those individuals have fought to earn the knowledge, and will not fight to teach it.

I strive to be that person — not apathetic to what is going on around me, but observant, ready and willing to teach patiently. Inversely, I am always ready to listen, learn and seek guidance from those willing to share their knowledge.

Before my career, the most important thing to me in life is spending time with and providing for those that I love — friends and family. Everything else is second to that. I am a creature of family, community and balance.