Danny Budzinski, Project Engineer
What do you like best about working at DMC?
It's great to solve problems for a living. At DMC our customers come to us with such interesting and intricate challenges, and being involved in that is what gets me excited as an engineer.
Can you describe one of the most interesting projects you've worked on at DMC?
About a year ago, I did some work at a correctional center in Chicago. We replaced HMI displays in the control room that monitor and control the doors and alarms in the facility. It was an interesting challenge to program because everything had to be exactly right, at the risk of compromising security and, you know, people escaping.
You have had some biochemical research published. This seems interesting for an engineer?
Yes, although I didn’t have a background in biochemistry I applied for a biochemical internship at Notre Dame while in college. I was invited to work on research involving the detection of immunological disorders from urine samples. Apparently my work was good enough to include my name on the publishing.
Describe some of your engineering hobbies.
I really enjoy homemade robotics. I programmed my Roomba to play “Jingle Bells” and I want to work on a football-themed soundtrack for the fall. My goal is to spearhead the creation of a robot utopian society, where all of the work is done by robots and people are free to enjoy their leisure time however they’d like.
I also get into creating props and robotics for Halloween. It’s one of the only holidays where you can design over-the-top animatronics and decorations. Every year I set up a pretty elaborate display and let my inner Imagineer show.
What is your favorite programming language?
I would have to say C, with the caveat that I don’t think I am dorky enough to have a favorite. It’s like having to pick your favorite child.
That statement just made you dorky enough. What do you like to do outside of engineering?
I am a huge supporter of all Notre Dame sports as well as the 2007 Super Bowl Champion Indianapolis Colts. I do not like to ride my bike (anymore).
Any advice for city cyclists or motorists?
Drivers turning right should always check the bike lane prior to making any moves into where a biker might be.
Shouldn't they already know that?
They should, but not everyone does. Cyclists in the city should take the rules of defensive driving and multiply them by 4,000. Also, if you happen to fall I strongly suggest against landing on your face. I learned that one the hard way.
I know you are a LOST fan. What character do you identify with most?
I would have to say Jack, because he is obsessed with solving problems. I often get sidetracked trying to fix or improve things around me. One thing I’d do differently than Jack, however, is sit Jacob down and have him explain all of the plot holes and discontinuities in the story line.
What is your favorite place in Chicago?
I would have to say the fireworks at Navy Pier, for sentimental reasons.