Industrial automation professionals, engineering students, and early-career engineers will find this interview with Brielle Reisman both practical and relatable. Cohost Ali G and guest Brielle discuss how to build a career in industrial automation, the value of combining business skills with engineering, and strategies for overcoming barriers—especially for women and newcomers—to thrive in a technical and rapidly changing environment.
Finding a Place in Industrial Automation—Even Without a Perfect Plan
Many listeners wonder how people really land in the world of industrial automation. Brielle Reisman’s experience is reassuring for anyone without a mapped-out path. She describes, “I was a chemical engineering student in school... I was looking for jobs that I felt like were a really good culture fit,” she explains, “but I wouldn’t say I really had an idea of what industry I wanted to work in.” Like many, Brielle stumbled into automation, joining Applied Control Engineering (ACE) right after graduation. She found that her role let her interact with heavy industry and controls systems—but without living at the plant 24/7, a concern she had while in college. Her message for students is clear: “I kind of just found myself here and once I started in the business, I did controls for quite a few years before moving into the more like commercial side of things. And I’ve loved it ever since.” For those who feel anxious about not having a fixed plan, Brielle’s success shows that curiosity, a willingness to try diverse roles, and attention to company culture can lead to a fulfilling and sustainable career.
The Hidden Value of Combining Business with Engineering
For engineers aiming to move beyond technical work alone, building business skills early sets the stage for leadership, entrepreneurship, and customer-facing roles. Brielle points out that her school’s integrated business and engineering program prepared her well for her career in both controls and sales. “We take accounting and management and marketing and BIS and finance. We take all that kind of stuff. But then we also have classes that are specific to the major, where we do negotiations, we do public speaking, we do product design and development, we pitch to investors…” she recounts. The “real world” value of these skills became obvious as her career shifted from programming controls to building customer relationships and handling proposals. Both Brielle and Ali G highlight that business knowledge isn’t just for salespeople; it’s a key ingredient for anyone who wants a bigger role impacting company direction or starting a business later. “You don’t just want to be engineer, you want to be customer facing and so you want to be able to sell,” says Ali G, driving home the long-term results of venturing out of the classroom comfort zone.
Speaking Up: Visibility, Personal Branding, and Confidence in Engineering
One challenge discussed throughout the episode is how engineers—especially women and newcomers—can develop confidence to speak up, advocate for themselves, and find their voice. Brielle brings a fresh and honest approach to personal branding: “I don’t have a filter... I just say what comes into my brain.” Her journey began by writing posts for her company’s blog, emphasizing the importance of highlighting company culture and showing that ACE supports women and new grads. Eventually, she shifted to LinkedIn, building her own online presence and sharing stories that connect with the engineering community. Both podcast hosts recognize that many engineers hesitate to promote their work or expertise. “People definitely minimize their achievements a whole lot,” Brielle says, describing how even experienced engineers will downplay their own accomplishments when asked to contribute to a project writeup. She recommends, “Don’t wait till you feel like you’re an expert on something to start talking about it... because that won’t happen.” Visibility isn’t about bragging—it’s about learning, building connections, and inspiring others to do the same, especially those who are underrepresented in the field.
Key Quote From The Episode
“Don’t wait till you feel like you’re an expert on something to start talking about it or spark conversations about it, because that won’t happen...” – Brielle Reisman
Key Takeaways
[00:00:35] Many professionals “fall into” automation; a strict plan isn’t necessary—curiosity and flexibility matter.
[00:09:18] Combining business education with engineering sharpens communication, sales, and leadership skills.
[00:19:42] Personal branding and speaking up help engineers have impact—visibility matters for both career growth and encouraging diversity.
[00:27:01] Engineers often underestimate what they know—sharing knowledge helps the whole community.
Wrap Up
A career in industrial automation doesn’t require a perfect plan—interest, resourcefulness, and attention to company culture go a long way. Learning business alongside engineering pays off, helping technical professionals expand their influence and career prospects. Building confidence to share knowledge, lift up others, and develop a personal brand will encourage a more connected and supportive field. Listeners are encouraged to seek out business classes or training, share even small technical tips online or at work, and participate in professional groups for networking and mentorship.
About the Guest
Brielle Reisman is a chemical engineer and commercial leader at Applied Control Engineering, based in Houston. After starting her career programming controls, she shifted to managing proposals and now leads customer and vendor relationships for ACE’s Texas office. Brielle is passionate about professional growth, mentoring new engineers, and advancing the visibility of women in automation. Connect with her on LinkedIn to join the conversation.
