Carter Aldridge: CT Specialist, Engineer, and Weekend Adventurist

In the bustling world of Nel Pretech, where innovation meets excellence, one name stands out – Carter Aldridge. A vibrant addition to the team, Carter brings with him a youthful energy, a relentless can-do attitude, and an unconventional thought process that sets him apart. Today, we dive into an exclusive interview with Carter, Nel Pretech's Industrial CT Specialist and Senior Applications Engineer, to uncover the layers of his remarkable journey.

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Q: Carter, tell us about your background and how you found your way into the world of engineering.

Carter: Well, it all started back in my childhood. I developed a love for engineering early on, fueled by receiving LEGO sets as gifts and watching mesmerizing scenes of barges navigating through locks and dams with my father. Fast forward to 2023, and I graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. During my time at UIC, my senior design group and I clinched the "Best in Show" title at the UIC Engineering Expo 2023 for our project – a transformative conversion of an abandoned rail line along the Chicago Ship & Sanitary Canal into a picturesque waterfront path for cyclists and pedestrians.

Q: Impressive! How did your journey lead you to Nel Pretech?

Carter: Before joining Nel Pretech, I spent six fulfilling years in the Illinois National Guard as a member of 1-178th InfantryRegiment, C Co. My experiences there, especially taking on the role of platoon radio operator during a challenging training operation, taught me the value of leadership and adaptability. After an honorable discharge in 2018, I was drawn to Nel Pretech, where I saw an opportunity to bring my diverse skill set to the world of industrial CT scanning and engineering.

Q: Beyond the office, we hear you're a "jack of all trades." Can you tell us more about your interests and hobbies?

Carter: For sure! Outside of work, I'm a self-described "jack of all trades." I'm a huge sci-fi and superhero fan, and I love staying connected with friends across the country through video games. Weekends are a mix of waking up early to catch F1 qualifying and races –a guilty pleasure of mine – and immersing myself in nature through hiking, rock climbing, and camping. I also have a soft spot for board and card games. Oh, and you might catch me cheering for "Da Bears" or hoisting crowd surfers at a local Chicago punk rock show – it's all about balance, right?

Q: Carter, what advice do you have for aspiring engineers or individuals considering a career in your field?

Carter: The key is to never stop learning. Embrace challenges, stay curious, and be open to unconventional solutions. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because that's where growth happens. And most importantly, surround yourself with a supportive network – be it colleagues, mentors, or friends – they make all the difference.

As we wrap up our interview with Carter Aldridge, it's clear that his journey is a testament to the power of passion, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. A CT specialist by day and a weekend adventurer by heart, Carter exemplifies the perfect blend of professionalism and a zest for life. Stay tuned for more exclusive interviews as we delve into the stories behind the faces of Nel Pretech!