How a 1965 Corvette Shaped an Engineer Turned Entrepreneur | JAKTALK with Jeff Kinsberg
In the latest episode of JAKTALK, Jeff Kinsberg, chairman, founder, and COO of JAKTOOL, delves into a more personal narrative, exploring the familial influences that propelled his engineering career. Joined by his father, Barry Kinsberg, Jeff discusses the early experiences that shaped his path, providing valuable insights for aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs.
This article is a recap of JAKTALK episode #7. You can watch the full episode on YouTube below:
From Sales Calls to Engineering Success
Jeff attributes his initial exposure to the business world to his father, who was instrumental in his early sales training. Recounting times spent accompanying his father on sales calls in various industries, Jeff realized that these experiences were his first informal lessons in salesmanship. This foundation not only enhanced his communication skills but also sparked his interest in engineering and problem-solving.
From Cars to Engineering, How the Corvette Stingray Creates a Learning Opportunity
A centerpiece of their discussion is a 1965 Corvette Stingray, a vehicle laden with history and sentimental value. Jeff describes how the car, originally purchased by his father, became a crucial part of his own narrative. From learning to drive a stick shift to using the car as a practical teaching tool for his daughter, the Stingray transcends its role as a mere vehicle to become a symbol of learning.
The restoration of the Corvette also plays a significant role in Jeff’s development. He shares stories of rebuilding the car with his father, from draining gelled gas to replacing piston rings.
Engineers – can you relate to this story? Many people in our industry started out with automotive projects.
These hands-on experiences not only enriched his mechanical knowledge but also taught him valuable lessons in persistence and problem-solving—skills that are vital in any engineering project.
Building on a Solid Foundation of Engineering and Entrepreneurship
The influence of family extends beyond practical skills to impact Jeff’s career choices and entrepreneurial spirit. He discusses his transition from a hobbyist to a professional in the fields of MedTech and defense manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of foundational experiences in shaping one’s career path. Jeff’s story illustrates how early exposure to mechanics and engineering can ignite a lifelong passion for innovation.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
Jeff’s narrative is a compelling reminder of the impact that early exposure to engineering and problem-solving can have on young minds. Through his podcast, he encourages listeners to engage with their passions, be they automotive restoration or any other field that requires a hands-on approach. He advocates for practical experiences as a way to inspire confidence and foster a deeper understanding of one’s work.
The podcast closes with a call to action for listeners to pursue projects that inspire and challenge them, underscoring the importance of following one’s vision with the support of family and community.
Jeff’s journey from learning sales at his father’s side to restoring classic cars and leading a successful engineering firm is a testament to the power of early exposure to hands-on experiences. This story inspires aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs and reminds us that the foundations of a successful career are often built on the lessons learned at home.
WHAT IS THE VISION VAULT?
The JAKTOOL Vision Vault is a space for us to expand on the passions that drive innovation and growth at our company. On this blog, we’ll take deeper dives into industry news and our expertise and highlight the leaders we have under our own roof through featured blogs. Follow along for updates throughout the month and recaps on new episodes of JAKTALK, our biweekly podcast hosted by our founder, COO, chairman, and visionary, Jeff Kinsberg.