In this episode, we talk with Joshua Tarbutton, PhD, PE, founder and chairman of Bravo Team Engineering Design & Fabrication, about custom engineering solutions that push beyond off-the-shelf tools to deliver innovative automation systems and advanced manufacturing solutions. We discuss how bold engineering innovation, scalable R&D workflows, and high-performance engineering teams turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Engineering Quotes:











Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Joshua Tarbutton, PhD, PE:



What does Bravo Team do, and how do you approach solving engineering problems when no off-the-shelf solution exists for custom engineering solutions?

How do you balance bold innovation with the practical challenges of time and budget in custom R&D workflows?

Why is custom problem-solving such a valuable and engaging environment for engineers compared to standard design work?

Looking at automation systems, which approaches are proving effective, which are falling short, and what developments do you see on the horizon?

What strategies are most effective for building high-performance engineering teams that can solve complex, real-world problems?

When projects hit roadblocks, what practices help you and your team keep custom engineering R&D efforts moving forward under pressure?

How do you manage communication with clients to align expectations, especially when budgets or scopes shift in custom design projects?

What final piece of advice would you give engineers and leaders who want to guide more innovative and resilient engineering teams?



Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About How Custom Engineering Solutions Transform Research and Development Workflows:





Bravo Team acts as an innovation partner that helps companies solve open-ended design challenges when standard parts or systems are not available. The team delivers custom engineering solutions in machine design, automation, and hardware-focused product development so clients can move forward with confidence.

Balancing innovation with project limits requires trust, disciplined design methods, and clear communication with clients. The team uses benchmarking, global research, and time-boxed testing to keep custom engineering workflows aligned with budgets and schedules.

Custom engineering challenges push creativity and technical ability, allowing engineers to address problems that have never been solved. The process demands resilience but provides significant satisfaction when solutions succeed.

Automation systems continue to advance through easier programming, wireless integration, and more accessible controls for plant operators. Legacy equipment and workforce skill gaps remain barriers, but the industry is steadily moving toward streamlined and standardized systems.

Strong teams form when roles are clearly defined, hiring is intentional, and tools like the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and Working Genius are applied. Creating psychologically safe engineering environments where people support one another ensures teams thrive in uncertain design spaces.

Progress is maintained by defining hypotheses, taking the next actionable step, and drawing on professional networks for expertise. Teams stay aligned by recognizing uncertainty, communicating openly, and ensuring clients understand the costs and risks of custom-built engineering solutions.

Each project begins with detailed scoping and clear kickoff meetings to establish alignment. Even when budgets tighten, integrity and long-term trust remain central, with open communication guiding adjustments in custom engineering projects.

Engineers should pursue excellence while seeking joy in their work, since passion creates energy that drives better solutions.