First name: Armando Villar
Time at EDAG / year hired: EDAG Italia in June 2020, then transferred to EDAG US in April 2023
Title: Lead Systems Engineer
My journey into engineering began in Havana, Cuba, where my aptitude during high school for math and physics, coupled with a keen interest in technology and coding, steered me towards pursuing a Bachelor’s in Electronic Engineering at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogota, Colombia. The allure of combining my technical skills with a passion for vehicles propelled me to pursue a Master's in Automotive Electronic Engineering at Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna and Dipartimento di Ingegneria "Enzo Ferrari" - Modena – Unimore in Bologna, Italy.
The pivotal point in my career came when I joined EDAG Italia in Maranello, where I played a crucial role in developing the audio system for a high-end Italian sports car brand. Since then, my focus has been on crafting various components for renowned automotive brands. The dynamic nature of the automotive industry and the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge developments have been driving forces in my engineering career. I find immense satisfaction in pushing the boundaries of innovation and being an integral part of creating advanced solutions for prestigious automotive manufacturers. This journey has not only been professionally rewarding but has also allowed me to combine my passion for engineering with a love for automotive technology.
Additionally, my commitment to advancing engineering excellence led me to take a significant step in my career by transferring from EDAG Italia to EDAG US. This strategic move was motivated by a desire to bring the European knowledge, expertise, and the distinctive EDAG Group approach to the United States. This transition allowed me to play a pivotal role in fostering the growth of the Electrical/Electronics (EE) department within EDAG US. By seamlessly integrating European best practices and the EDAG Group way of working, I aim to contribute to the expansion and success of the EE department in the US market. This cross-continental collaboration not only enhances the global synergy within EDAG Group but also facilitates the exchange of innovative ideas and methodologies, ultimately driving progress and excellence in automotive engineering on an international scale.
Working at EDAG Group is immensely fulfilling due to its global reach and the wealth of knowledge it offers from around the world. The opportunity to transfer from EDAG Italia to EDAG US presented diverse challenges, allowing me to contribute to the growth of the Electrical/Electronics (EE) department in the US. What excites me the most is the prospect of future growth for EDAG Group in the US and how I can leverage my experience and automotive knowledge to support this expansion.
Having previously worked on developing electronic components for high end Italian sports car manufacturers with stringent quality standards, I am eager to bring that expertise to US automotive companies. The commitment to delivering high-demanding results aligns with my professional ethos, and I am enthusiastic about contributing to the continued success of the EDAG Group in the American automotive landscape.
My typical workday is dynamic and revolves around effective communication and strategic planning. Early mornings are dedicated to addressing client emails, particularly from US, Europe or Asia, ensuring timely responses. Subsequently, I focus on meticulous planning for the upcoming weeks, outlining activities and prioritizing tasks. Throughout the day, I execute planned daily tasks and engage in multiple meetings. These meetings cover a spectrum of topics, including project discussions, issue resolution, strategy development, support activities, and future planning for travels.
A significant portion of my day is devoted to financial oversight. I review project expenses, assess current costs, and examine invoices to ensure financial transparency and efficiency. Collaboration with my team is paramount, involving regular meetings to discuss project updates, address concerns, and outline the next steps. This consistent communication ensures everyone is aligned with the project's trajectory and allows for effective troubleshooting.
In essence, my workday is a blend of strategic planning, meticulous execution, and constant communication. This multifaceted approach enables me to navigate diverse aspects of project management, ensuring smooth operations and sustained progress.
I enjoy staying active by going to the gym and exploring new places. Photography is a passion of mine, capturing moments during my travels. Playing with my dogs brings joy, and I also find satisfaction in working on my car, honing my mechanical skills. These activities contribute to a balanced and fulfilling life outside of work.