I was reviewing a complex operational process yesterday, but my most critical task of the week was actually figuring out the logistics of a toddler’s milk and nap schedule so I could prep for a technical interview. We talk a lot about "work-life balance" in STEM, but lately, it feels less like a balance and more like extreme context switching. For the working parents out there, how do you mentally transition from "engineering/ops mode" to "parent mode" without dropping the ball on either?

Hi everyone, I’m at a career crossroads. I’m currently a dev in Sydney working with legacy code—high QoL, but low pay and zero growth. I just got a Senior Automation offer with a much higher salary, but it requires a 40m commute 3x/week. With AI transforming the industry, is returning to the automation niche a mistake, or should I push into modern software dev to stay employable? I'd love to hear from those working with AI: is automation still a safe bet, or is it time to pivot?

I’m graduating in Mechatronics Engineering (Jan 2026) and I want to start a career in automation and robotics. I’ve worked in quality/manufacturing for over 10 years. I have built hands-on projects with Arduino and control systems. What advice would you give someone entering this field, especially on skills, certifications, or entry roles to focus on? I am just scared of changing careers, but automation is something that I really want to do. #Mechatronics #Automation #Robotics #CareerAdvice

I know startups these days are tech focused, anyone interested in something more physical? I am looking at an agricultural co-op based on Italian models, where farmers pool capital and own the entire value chain. Either small specialty dairy or meat farms where output is process in a co-op facility and then sold either DTC or wholesale. This means no middleman squeezing the farmers and much higher margins for them. can still have same corporate style benefits like insurance, PTO, etc..

I know startups these days are tech focused, anyone interested in something more physical? I am looking at an agricultural co-op based on Italian models, where farmers pool capital and own the entire value chain. Either small specialty dairy or meat farms where output is process in a co-op facility and then sold either DTC or wholesale. This means no middleman squeezing the farmers and much higher margins for them. can still have same corporate style benefits like insurance, PTO, etc..

I have worked as a Bioprocess Lead across 3 cultivated meat companies. I have scaled processes from the bench to 2000L across multiple different iPSC cell lines. I carried out R&D for cost reduction, productivity improvement. I’ve carried out a TEA and led R&D strategy. I’ve also carried out the tech transfer of IP during an acquisition. I’d like to transition into consulting or carrying out technical due diligence. How can I make this transition? without being self employed

I’m considering a pivot to airport/airline operations and engineering. Or anything in that field, really. I have ~5 years experience in Controls Automation and Project Management (1 in food & bev, 4 in pharma). My automation experience might not carry over, but I figure there would be at least *some* overlap. What roles/positions/jobs/companies/etc. do you guys think I’d flourish in? Also happy to share more info on my work experience as needed.

Has anyone actually found a job using an auto-application AI tool??? I have previously resisted using an AI agent to auto-apply but am at a breaking point. The old school method of personally/individually applying for each position on a company website is very time-consuming for such a low number of interviews - not to mention mentally and emotionally exhausting/draining. For those who found a job using an AI agent - which which one did you use? Any to avoid?

My wife has been out of work for 8 years whilst bringing up our children. During her break, she has done some training in Software Development (more specifically the Code First Girls qualification. She is struggling to make inroads in the job market. Does anyone have any suggestions to how she could find a starter job that isn't specially for 21 year old graduates? She's looking in the London / Berkshire area and remote is preferable ~ thanks!

My wife has been out of work for 8 years whilst bringing up our children. During her break, she has done some training in Software Development (more specifically the Code First Girls qualification. She is struggling to make inroads in the job market. Does anyone have any suggestions to how she could find a starter job that isn't specially for 21 year old graduates? She's looking in the London / Berkshire area and remote is preferable ~ thanks!