Engineering Success | A NTP Podcast

Steve Heaton, founder of Xetla Consulting and co‑inventor at STAR Scientific, is demystifying the messy, exhilarating reality of R&D. In conversation with Melinda, Steve traces his winding path from Unix systems and project management to astronomy, particle physics, and muon‑catalyzed fusion, showing how curiosity compounds into career-defining opportunities.

He makes the case for incremental progress when parameter space is uncertain, and why diverse teams outperform look‑alike groups. In the episode, Steve shares practical tools for getting unstuck, designing smarter pilots, and knowing when you’ve squeezed the science enough to start engineering. Tune in to hear from Steve around how to prep for patents, avoid public disclosure traps, and make your expensive time with lawyers count. He also offers a grounded take on energy—plus what the future of energy means for the Hunter’s logistics, workforce transition, and supply chain opportunities.

Books mentioned in the episode:
The Soul of a New Machine by Tracy Kidder
The Particle Garden by Gordon Kane
How Big Things Get Done: The Surprising Factors Behind Every Successful Project, from Home Renovations to Space Exploration by Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner


Creators and Guests

Host
Melinda Sietsma
Senior Engineering Recruiter

What is Engineering Success | A NTP Podcast?

Welcome to Engineering Success! This NTP podcast features some of the brightest engineering and manufacturing minds in the Hunter region and beyond. Join us for insightful conversations with the folks behind the region's most exciting projects.

We'll dive into their career stories, the challenges they've faced, and the awesome tech they're working on. Whether you're in the industry or just curious, Engineering Success will give you a peek into the vibrant world of local engineering and manufacturing. Tune in and get inspired!