23 Fascinating Jobs Around The World | Big Business Marathon | Business Insider

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Ford builds life-size clay models of vehicles using a specialty clay in a Top Secret Studio, refining designs through manual carving and 3D printing. Bird specimens, cork harvesting, and wig-making processes are detailed, along with the meticulous work of wind turbine technicians, art conservators, and chefs preparing in-flight meals.

Insights

  • Ford in Detroit, Michigan uses specialized clay to create detailed vehicle models in Top Secret Studios, crucial for design development.
  • Clay models undergo a meticulous process involving manual sculpting, 3D printing, and digital scanning for accuracy and realism.
  • Despite technological advancements, physical clay models remain essential for aerodynamic and design testing in wind tunnels.
  • The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History houses a vast collection of bird specimens aiding global research efforts.
  • Delta Tech Ops' precision in engine repairs ensures safe flights, with meticulous testing and maintenance procedures.
  • The market for used Rolexes is booming, with authenticity verification crucial due to the surge in counterfeit watches.

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Recent questions

  • How are wind turbine technicians trained?

    Wind turbine technicians undergo rigorous training to ensure safety and efficiency in their work. They use harnesses and ropes for safety while working on turbines as tall as 35-floor skyscrapers. Technicians like Joao inspect turbines for damage, a crucial task due to the high cost and difficulty of repairs. Joao, a mechanical engineer, uses drones to locate damage efficiently and wears specialized gear like metal-free boots and leather gloves for safety around electricity. A crane hauls up ropes, rappelling gear, and tools needed for the climb to the turbine's top, ensuring all safety measures are in place.

  • What is the process of restoring paintings?

    Art conservators like Sarah Drew follow a meticulous process to inspect and restore paintings. Sarah carefully removes paintings from stretchers to avoid damage, preserving the original paint. After filling and retouching damaged areas, she applies reversible conservation paint and a non-yellowing varnish for protection and cohesion. The restoration process involves detailed cleaning, filling, retouching, and varnishing to bring the painting back to its original state. Sarah's expertise and specialized techniques ensure that the paintings are restored with precision and care, preserving their historical and artistic value.

  • How are desserts prepared for in-flight meals?

    Chefs meticulously prepare desserts like floating islands with meringue and cremon glaze for in-flight meals. Due to decreased taste sensitivity in the air caused by pressure, dryness, and engine noise, chefs carefully select ingredients and flavors that will be enjoyable during the flight. Chefs like Anthony simulate pressurized cabin conditions to test food taste and address bloating issues with ingredients like shoemaker juices and ginger. Desserts are assembled and packed into carts for business and economy class, with labels indicating the flight number and meal service. The process of preparing desserts for in-flight meals involves attention to detail and consideration for the unique challenges of serving food at high altitudes.

  • What is the significance of the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History?

    The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History houses over 147 million specimens, with only a small fraction displayed to the public. The museum plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing natural history artifacts and specimens for research and educational purposes. Researchers and scientists worldwide benefit from the vast collection housed at the museum, aiding in various studies and discoveries. The museum's extensive collection provides valuable insights into the natural world, history, and evolution, making it a significant institution in the field of natural sciences.

  • How are military aircraft preserved and regenerated?

    The 309th AMARG in Arizona is responsible for storing and regenerating military aircraft to ensure their continued use. Aircraft at AMARG undergo preservation processes to prevent corrosion and maintain their structural integrity. Parts from these aircraft are reclaimed for reuse or sent out to active military units, extending the lifespan of the aircraft and saving taxpayers money. The rigorous processes at AMARG involve washing, repairing, and inspecting aircraft before they are returned to service, ensuring that they meet safety and operational standards. The work done at AMARG is essential in maintaining the readiness and efficiency of military aircraft, contributing to national defense and security.

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Summary

00:00

Ford Detroit: Clay Models in Top Secret Studios

  • Ford in Detroit, Michigan builds life-size clay models of vehicles in Top Secret Studios more restricted than manufacturing plants.
  • Clay models are made using a specialty clay that is sticky and malleable, unlike traditional water-based ceramic clay.
  • Design sketches are turned into scaled-down clay models, then scanned and converted into digital graphics for further editing.
  • A milling machine carves out a full-size model from foam blocks supported by a steel and wood frame.
  • Modelers heat clay for 24 hours to make it workable, then spend days shaping it before the milling machine refines the model.
  • Modelers manually carve out important details like hoods and fenders using various tools, ensuring craftsmanship is critical.
  • 3D printers produce detailed parts like headlights and grills, while 3D scanners create digital versions of the model for engineers and designers.
  • Clay models are covered in a glossy film for a realistic look, helping identify mistakes that need correction before final approval.
  • Despite technological advancements, clay models are essential for testing aerodynamics and design details in a wind tunnel.
  • Clay modelers believe physical models will always be necessary for verifying data and creating emotional connections with the product.

27:15

"Preparing Bird Specimens for Research and Display"

  • Corn cob dust is used to absorb moisture after clearing fat from a specimen, which is then washed and dried.
  • A forced air dryer is used to blow off sawdust, and a hair dryer fluffs up feathers for a nice sheen.
  • Wings are tied together to limit motion, approximating a Cooper's Hawk's natural spread, making the specimen stronger.
  • Cotton is used to stuff the specimen, recreating its original shape for longevity.
  • Feathers are arranged properly to assist future researchers, ensuring the specimen is ready for display.
  • After drying for about 10 days, the Cooper's Hawk will be ready for exhibition, part of the Lights Out exhibit.
  • The Division of Birds at the Smithsonian houses a vast collection of bird specimens, aiding researchers worldwide.
  • A bird strike sample is used to identify bird aircraft collisions, helping adjust aircrafts to reduce accidents.
  • The Feather Lab analyzes feathers for deeper insights, discovering unique bacterial groups like dinococcus.
  • The bird preparation process enables future research on birds, creating a record for generations of researchers.

44:18

Portugal's Cork Industry and Symphony Of The Seas

  • Cork harvesting is a sustainable practice that dates back centuries, with Portugal being a major producer.
  • Portugal exports billions of dollars worth of cork annually, with the industry expanding into various sectors.
  • The cork industry faced challenges due to synthetic closures but regained popularity with environmental consciousness.
  • The cork industry in Portugal has adapted to global changes, maintaining its traditional harvesting methods.
  • The Royal Caribbean Symphony Of The Seas is a massive cruise ship with over 6,000 passengers weekly.
  • The ship requires a staff of 2,400 to operate efficiently, producing 30,000 meals daily.
  • The ship's logistics involve meticulous planning and execution, with a focus on food supply and storage.
  • The ship's engine room and bridge work together to power and navigate the vessel, ensuring safe departures.
  • The ship's design and layout are crucial for passenger flow, emergency response, and COVID-19 protocols.
  • The ship's crew, including chefs and staff, work tirelessly to provide diverse menus and maintain high-quality service.

01:00:24

High-risk Jobs: Wind Turbine and Art Conservation

  • Wind turbine technicians use a harness and rope for safety while working on turbines the size of a 35-floor skyscraper.
  • These technicians, like Joao, inspect turbines for damage, a crucial task due to the high cost and difficulty of repairs.
  • Joao, a mechanical engineer, inspects turbines using drones to locate damage efficiently.
  • Joao wears specialized gear like metal-free boots and leather gloves for safety around electricity.
  • A crane hauls up ropes, rappelling gear, and tools needed for the climb to the turbine's top.
  • Joao climbs a metal ladder due to a non-functional elevator, ensuring safety with a lifeline.
  • Wind turbines are turned off during climbs, but the transformer remains live to power lights.
  • Joao inspects the nacelle, the turbine's heart, and checks the blades for damage.
  • Turbine technicians like Joao earn around $36,000 annually, double the average salary in Portugal.
  • Portugal aims to run solely on renewables by 2040, with 70% of its energy already coming from renewable sources.
  • Art conservators like Sarah Drew inspect and restore paintings using specialized techniques.
  • Sarah removes paintings from stretchers carefully to avoid damage, preserving original paint.
  • After filling and retouching damaged areas, Sarah applies reversible conservation paint.
  • A non-yellowing varnish is applied to the painting's surface for protection and cohesion.
  • The restoration process involves meticulous cleaning, filling, retouching, and varnishing.
  • The 309th AMARG in Arizona stores and regenerates military aircraft, ensuring their continued use.
  • Aircraft at AMARG undergo preservation processes to prevent corrosion and maintain integrity.
  • Parts from aircraft at AMARG are reclaimed for reuse or sent out to active military units.
  • AMARG's rigorous processes involve washing, repairing, and inspecting aircraft before returning them to service.
  • AMARG's work extends the lifespan of military aircraft, saving taxpayers money and ensuring safety.

01:25:44

"Kachaneels: Ancient Bug Dye Tradition Threatened"

  • The white dots on cactuses are bugs called kachaneels, which produce a vibrant red dye from the acid in their guts.
  • Kachaneels were Mexico's second most valuable export in the 17th century and have been used in various products like yogurt, M&Ms, and lipstick.
  • Cultivation of kachaneels has been declining, threatening the production of the powerful red dye.
  • Catalina Yolanda Lopez is one of the last kachaneel producers in Mexico, preserving the ancient tradition.
  • Catalina raises kachaneels on prickly pear cactuses, carefully tending to them from a young age.
  • The bugs produce carminic acid, a potent red dye, which is harvested after three to four months.
  • It takes 70,000 bugs to make one pound of dye, which is then processed and sold for various products.
  • Cochineal dye has a long history, being used in Mexico for thousands of years and later in Europe for its vibrant red color.
  • Synthetic dyes in the 19th century led to a decline in cochineal production, but a renewed interest in natural dyes has emerged.
  • Pressure from animal rights activists and changing consumer preferences have impacted the use of cochineal dye in various products, leading to challenges for producers like Catalina.

01:46:01

In-flight dining: chefs, pressure, taste, freshness

  • Chefs assemble desserts like floating islands with meringue and cremon glaze in a separate room.
  • Food can taste different in the air on planes due to decreased taste sensitivity caused by pressure, dryness, and engine noise.
  • Older planes like triple sevens and a320s are pressurized up to 8,000 feet, affecting taste perception negatively.
  • Newer planes like 350s, a380s, and 787s are pressurized up to 6,000 feet, enhancing taste perception and comfort.
  • Increased humidity in newer planes, up to 24 percent, helps prevent dehydration and improves taste sensitivity.
  • Chefs like Anthony simulate pressurized cabin conditions to test food taste and address bloating issues with ingredients like shoemaker juices and ginger.
  • Chefs avoid deep-fried and thin fish dishes for in-flight meals due to taste and texture changes during reheating.
  • Meals are assembled and packed into carts for business and economy class, with labels indicating flight number and meal service.
  • Clean trays, cutlery, and dishes are assembled by chefs for business class meals, while economy class meals are simpler.
  • Meals are cooked, assembled, and served within 72 hours, with a fast-paced process to ensure freshness and quality for in-flight dining.

02:03:36

Protecting Agriculture: Agents Confiscate Foreign Pests

  • Agents confiscate items to protect American agriculture from foreign pests or diseases that could harm livestock or crops.
  • Agricultural Specialists like Ginger are crucial in preventing pest risks and protecting the country's agricultural interests.
  • Foreign bugs in luggage have caused significant damage in the past, with Florida's citrus industry suffering billions in losses.
  • Beagle Brigade dogs like Biscuit help detect food items in luggage with a 90% accuracy rate due to their strong sense of smell.
  • Ginger manually inspects and X-rays confiscated items, seizing anything not allowed, especially common items like grape leaves or horse meat sausages.
  • Confiscated food is disposed of in either a grinder or incinerator, with Ginger ensuring proper disposal to prevent any risks.
  • The meticulous process of creating hyper-realistic wigs for TV and movies involves detailed measurements of the actor's head and hairline.
  • Wig makers use fine lace foundations and human hair to create realistic wigs, with each hair being stitched in one by one for a natural look.
  • The coloring process for wigs requires consideration of lighting and camera effects, ensuring the wig looks natural on screen.
  • Multiple versions of wigs may be needed for different scenes or purposes, such as stunt wigs that require durability and quick application processes.

02:19:10

Delta Tech Ops: Precision Engine Maintenance Excellence

  • Delta Tech Ops is a maintenance, repair, and overhaul business with 6,000 technicians capable of fixing any commercial jet from various airlines and organizations.
  • Engine repairs are a significant part of their work, with $32 million at stake for each repair.
  • The technicians diagnose engine problems and then proceed to the engine shop for repairs.
  • Engine repair is the most expensive section of Tech Ops, with $100 million invested in new facilities in the last two years.
  • Engines are completely disassembled, inspected, and repaired before being reassembled.
  • Parts are cleaned in a chemical bath to ensure maximum engine performance.
  • Different levels of maintenance, from light to heavy, can take anywhere from 15 days to over two months.
  • Each engine undergoes quality testing at the world's largest engine test cell before being secured back on the wing.
  • The testing facility can handle 150,000 pounds of thrust and runs tests 24/7 to ensure engine efficiency.
  • Delta Tech Ops' precision and close tolerances in maintenance aim to ensure safe and reliable flights for their customers.

02:38:10

Japanese Wagashi: Sweet Treats with History

  • Confectioners create a base using red Zuki beans, brown sugar, and agar, a gelling agent.
  • The mixture is boiled, poured into a mold, and walnuts are added to create a dessert called sukikage, translating to Moonlight.
  • The dessert requires at least two hours to set before serving.
  • Higushi, dry sweets, are made by pressing the mixture into traditional wooden molds, translating to Good Fortune in Japanese.
  • Higashi sweets are small, colorful, and intricately designed.
  • Wagashi desserts come in various shapes and styles influenced by regional history and geography.
  • Wagashi desserts are named after seasons or references from Japanese literature.
  • Foreign Buddhist monks introduced tea ceremonies in Japan in the 12th century, evolving into social gatherings symbolizing Harmony and respect.
  • Wagashi's sweetness makes it a popular dessert for tea ceremonies across Japan.
  • The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History houses over 147 million specimens, with only a small fraction displayed to the public.

02:57:16

Deep-Sea Mining: Environmental Impact and Solutions

  • Gerard Baron leads the metals company, which recently completed a 10-week trial run collecting nodules from the deep sea.
  • The collector vehicle, weighing 90 tons and operated remotely, sucks nodules from the seabed using nozzles and sensors.
  • The collected nodules are separated from mud using internal pumps and air bubbles, then brought to the surface for processing.
  • The metals company aims to build processing centers at ports to refine the nodules into valuable metals using renewable energy.
  • The company faces criticism for its mining plans, with concerns about environmental impact and the rush for approval.
  • Researchers sail alongside the mining ship to study the effects of sediment clouds and noise on the deep sea environment.
  • The company is testing depths to minimize sediment impact, estimating it to be below 1200 meters.
  • The mining process could potentially harm unique deep-sea species and disrupt their habitats.
  • Seafloor mining is presented as a solution to land-based mining issues, such as waste disposal and deforestation.
  • The debate over deep-sea mining's environmental impact and the need for metals for renewable energy sources continues, with concerns about ecological harm and trade-offs.

03:14:17

Rolex Watch Market: High Demand, Counterfeits, Expertise

  • John Buckley, a veteran watch dealer, buys, sells, and repairs used Rolexes, which can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
  • The market for used watches, estimated at $20 billion, is growing rapidly, with Rolexes sometimes selling for three times their retail price.
  • Rolex has outperformed the stock market, real estate, and gold between 2011 and 2021.
  • Counterfeit watches are a significant concern, with U.S. customs seizing up to 150,000 fake Rolexes annually.
  • John navigates Manhattan's Diamond District, where he sells roughly a dozen watches weekly, negotiating deals with other collectors and stores.
  • Rolex's reputation for quality and scarcity drives high demand, with only an estimated 1 million watches produced annually.
  • Rolex watches are known for their durability and functionality, initially designed for extreme conditions like underwater and mountain expeditions.
  • Rolex's popularity surged after the 2017 sale of a Rolex Daytona worn by Paul Newman for $15.5 million, leading to increased demand for parts and watches.
  • John's expertise in spotting counterfeit Rolexes is crucial, using methods like a scratch test and nitric acid to verify authenticity.
  • Despite the high prices of Rolexes, John often makes only a few thousand dollars per watch, with obscure parts sometimes being more profitable than watches themselves.

03:30:21

Hat-making process and Hasidic headwear explained.

  • The hat-making process involves delicate steps, starting with the creation of the raw hat shape on a cone.
  • Fabric undergoes a process involving machines like rollers and cast iron to lock fibers together.
  • Quality inspections are conducted, with artisans ensuring uniformity before shrinking the felt with boiling water.
  • The stiffening machine breaks down the weave, creating the crown and brim division.
  • The Scotty steam shaping process uses pressure and steam to shape the felt into a hat.
  • The finishing station adds the borsolino logo in 24 karat gold leaf, completing the hat-making process.
  • Hasidic Jews wear various headwear, with specific styles indicating their community.
  • Bellissimo, a hat-making company, competes with borsolino in the religious market, focusing on quality and handcrafted hats.
  • Bellissimo utilizes social media and celebrity endorsements to expand its reach and sales.
  • The Modern Warfare game uses photogrammetry to create realistic props, costumes, and characters, enhancing the gaming experience.

03:45:33

Enhancing Game Realism with Aerial Photogrammetry and Simulation

  • Teams in the Mexican state of Chihuahua are utilizing aerial photogrammetry with drones to enhance the natural detail in a game they are developing, conducting real-world research to accurately replicate light settings and geographical features, although photogrammetry has limitations such as being unable to scan reflective surfaces or moving objects like water and hair.
  • To overcome these limitations, computer simulations are used to animate moving elements like hair and water, while performance capture is employed to record not only body movements but also facial expressions, fingers, and voice for lifelike characters in the game, with a focus on capturing authentic sounds from real-world sources like weapons and vehicles to enhance player immersion and realism.
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