Alcon

Eric Huang, Engineering Manager at Alcon R&D, has over 20 years of experience in the injection molding industry. He is dedicated to educating younger employees on molding techniques and promoting a culture of embracing challenges and achieving success. Eric holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland and completed his undergraduate studies at Zhejiang University. Outside work, he takes pride in his teen daughter, an amateur ballet dancer who has performed leading roles in "Swan Lake" and "Giselle."

Through this article, Eric Huang reflects on his journey as an engineering manager at Alcon, detailing his passion for education and problem-solving in injection molding. He emphasizes cultural challenges like the "bamboo ceiling," advocating for confidence and embracing new perspectives. Eric also critiques traditional leadership models, preferring a coaching approach to empower employees and optimize organizational effectiveness through knowledge transfer and collaborative problem-solving.

I was studying how to write a college application essay since my daughter will apply this year. My idea is to show you as a live person. What if we write a similar essay instead of a resume?

I would start with the fact that I believe in education. School is the best place to learn comprehensively. My first experience with injection molding was building a complete molding facility. I did not know then, so I bought a series of four books by Douglas M. Bryce, which has one book about how to build a molding facility. So, I used most of the experiences the author had gained. Then, I worked with Arburg, Conair and other vendors to finish the project. Thanks to my boss for trusting me and believing in a PhD’s education.

I believe in education as a lifelong pursuit, from building molding facilities to troubleshooting molds. Each challenge teaches me technical skills and how to navigate cultural differences and empower others through knowledge.

 

About troubleshooting, recently, we tried a new sleeve for our mold. The parts won’t stay on the fixed side as we designed. Looking at the part, it was deformed at the ejection area. Is it caused by the installation that tilted the plate? I opened the mold with no ejection and manually removed the part. It had no deformation. Then, the picture was more precise. The part stuck on the core too tight and the ejection force was small initially; it only deformed the part but also built up the energy. At the point the balance was broken, the part flew out. Once the reasoning circle is closed, the solution is easy. Adding texture to the sleeve to relieve the vacuum worked perfectly. I like to think before acting and think a few layers deeper.

Regarding the bamboo ceiling, East Asians seem less successful than others. But believe in yourself. That is not because you are not good. It is just a cultural difference. You can express your opinion confidently without worrying about some imperfections. Embracing a new culture could be difficult, but it can also open our eyes.

What is an efficient company structure? I saw companies with incredible talent that were recognized and promoted to management positions. They directed the junior workers. But it seems that the problems were more difficult to resolve. I would use the top talent on the floor, even if not permanently. I spent lots of time on the machines, molds and automation; I learned things first. I have resolved the issue without much notice. And I will do the same whatever I do in the future.

Given companies’ constant layoff strategy, I don’t think working hard and trying to keep the current job is a good choice. What we can do is learn and practice. I spent much time on the machines and studied the process and parts quality to gain the most knowledge possible. I can feel the growth and operate all the molding machines, dealing with all molds. We may get a better position when the time comes.

Nowadays, leaders’ effect is diminishing. I don’t think I could be a leader. Our employees don’t need a leader; they will perform well without one. Maybe I could be a coach, transferring my knowledge to them. They will contribute with their imagination and make it real and the leaders will become the organizers.