The CE PD Master Programme: Rafael’s testimonial
After exploring Rubia Pimenta’s experience, we continue our journey within the CE PD Master Program CNH with the testimony of Rafael Renno, System Engineer. While Rubia’s path allowed us to delve into product management and plant operations, Rafael takes us into the technological heart of the company, specializing in vehicle electronics and software, with a strong focus on cutting-edge technologies.
His international Job Rotation was based in Turin, a strategic hub for innovation, but also gave him the opportunity to collaborate closely with the Lecce team. This created a direct bridge between CNH’s different Italian centers of excellence, significantly accelerating his professional growth.
In questa intervista, ci ha spiegato come il passaggio dalle operazioni brasiliane alle linee di produzione italiane le abbia permesso di padroneggiare le piattaforme Grader e Telehandler, acquisendo esperienza diretta presso il Proving Ground e riportando competenze all’avanguardia in CNH Brasile.
Q: Rafael, how did your journey with CNH and this Master program begin?
I graduated in Electrical Engineering, and my internship was already in the construction machinery sector. I knew how big CNH was and its impact on the market, so I was very interested in joining. When I heard about the Master program on a YouTube live show, especially the possibility of an advanced degree in technology and global rotation, I knew I had to apply.
What was the most valuable part of the Job Rotation for you?
Having a broader view of product development.
We rotated through engineering, product validation, and platforms. Understanding how an action in engineering impacts the platform or the validation process is essential. It helps you see the “big picture” of how a machine is developed.
Turin and Lecce: the culture of dialogue
Q: You spent time in Turin and Lecce. What did you learn from the Italian work culture?
It was a great cultural exchange. I noticed how Italians approach problems: they can be very energetic and passionate during a meeting when discussing an issue, but as soon as it’s over, they are friends again, going for a coffee together. I think this ability to debate intensely and then remain close colleagues is a great quality to bring back to Brazil.
Q: From a technical standpoint, what were the highlights of your experience in Italy?
Back in Brazil, the university courses exposed us to cutting-edge tech like machine learning and electrification. Here in Italy, I joined the Vehicle Electronics team. Spending time with them in Lecce sped up my learning significantly. I was able to dive deep into electronic integration and software development, which are the future of our industry.
The baggage of experience
Q:What are your final thoughts on this journey?
I can say that this Master’s has been an incredible experience. From the internal rotations in different areas of product development to the academic courses and, finally, this global rotation in Italy, it has been amazing. I am truly grateful for this gigantic opportunity.
Q: What is your personal goal now that you are returning to Brazil?
My goal is to become a reference for vehicle electronics at our Contagem plant. Being currently the only member of this specific team in Brazil, I want to use the “baggage” of knowledge I acquired in Italy to lead new solutions. The market is inevitably moving toward electronic and electric machines, and I want to be ready to change the mindset of the operators with these new technologies.
