Twinning: Two Paths, One Connection
For those who know me, it’s no secret that I have a twin brother. And for those who don’t — surprise! I’m a twin!
Shane and I grew up with both shared traits and differences. In this post, we will talk about how our different careers still connect us. We will explore how our unique personalities and journeys lead us to similar techniques and lifestyles. We are excited to share the main points of our conversation and give you a look into our “twin telepathy” (oh yes, it’s real).
Meet the Twins
Shane and Shannon
Our Relationship
Growing up in Wichita Falls, Texas, Shane and I shared a childhood filled with commonalities and contrasts. We could not be more different in appearances, but we shared many interests and personality traits. Our early years were marked by sibling rivalry and camaraderie, shaped by our diverse interests. While Shane gravitated toward Tennis, thriving with his analytical approach, I found my passion on the soccer field, enjoying the teamwork and strategy involved.
Academically, we complemented each other in unexpected ways. Shane excelled in math and science, tackling complex equations with ease; while I struggled in those areas, I thrived in art and creative expression. This divergence often led to playful arguments—he would tease me about my artistic aspirations, and I would poke fun at his mathematical prowess (and ask him to help me with my math homework). In hindsight, these disagreements reflected our different worldviews, each of us drawn to our respective fields by what fascinated us most. We always seemed to complete each other in a way that only a deeply connected set of twins could do, finding harmony in our thoughts, feelings, and shared experiences.
Eventually, we went our separate ways to different colleges to pursue our studies in our respective fields of interest. When the time came for us to graduate, we had a few months to purchase our cap and gowns from our respective schools. Remarkably, we both bought them within the same hour on the same day. There’s some twin telepathy for you.
Below are a thoughtful series of questions presented in an interview format.
The questions in blue text are directed explicitly toward Shane,
while the questions in orange are intended for Shannon.
What were your earliest interests, and how did they tie into engineering?
Were there specific experiences that influenced you?
How and when did your interest in glass art develop?
Shared Experiences
Our family environment played a big role in shaping our paths. Our parents encouraged us to follow our interests, fostering a supportive atmosphere where creativity and curiosity thrived. They also instilled values of hard work and dedication, which influenced our educational and career choices. Shane's passion for engineering grew from his early love of building and problem-solving, while my passion for glass art stemmed from an appreciation for tactile experiences and aesthetics.
Though we didn’t always get along as kids, our relationship has evolved over time. The petty arguments gave way to deeper conversations about our fields. We now often share insights about how physics informs my glass techniques and how aesthetics influence Shane’s engineering designs. Our shared sense of humor and bond, built on common experiences, allows us to appreciate our differences while recognizing the beauty in our intertwined journeys.
As we continue to learn from each other, I’m grateful for Shane’s unique perspective. Our childhood was full of rivalry, but it was also marked by genuine support, which has laid the foundation for a strong and evolving relationship where we can see how two different paths can lead to similar destinations.
Can you share a memory from our childhood that reflects our similarities or differences?
The Similarities in Engineering and Glass Blowing
Despite the differences between engineering and glass art, both fields share a foundation built on fundamental principles of physics, chemistry, and thermal dynamics. Understanding these concepts is crucial for success in either discipline. In engineering, principles of physics help design structures that withstand forces, while in glass art, they guide artists in manipulating materials to create beautiful forms. Similarly, chemistry plays a vital role—engineers rely on material properties for durability and functionality, while glass artists use chemical reactions to achieve desired colors and textures.
Can you describe your educational journey in engineering? What key experiences shaped your learning?
What about your journey in glass art? Were there mentors or experiences that guided you?
Overlap in Techniques
The equipment and technology used in both disciplines further showcase their overlaps. Engineers often work with precise instruments, such as CAD software and 3D printers, to create prototypes and test designs. In glass blowing, artists employ tools like blow pipes and furnaces to control temperature and shape materials. Both fields require a keen understanding of tools and machinery, as well as physics and chemistry. Using such scientific principles emphasizes the importance of technical skills and safety protocols.
In your work, how do you see both physics and engineering principles applied?
What aspects of chemistry are most important in glass art, and how do they compare to those in engineering?
Equipment and Technology
Creativity manifests uniquely in both engineering and glass art, yet the underlying processes are strikingly similar. In engineering, creativity is vital for problem-solving and innovation. Engineers envision solutions that balance functionality with aesthetics, much like glass artists who experiment with forms and colors to evoke emotions and experiences. Both disciplines require iterative processes—testing, refining, and adjusting until the final product meets the desired vision.
Ultimately, the interplay between science and art is evident in both fields, highlighting how engineering and glass blowing are not as disparate as they may seem. By embracing shared principles, techniques, and creative processes, Shane and I continue to celebrate the beautiful connections between our paths, showcasing the artistry inherent in engineering and the engineering behind glass art.
What types of equipment do you use in engineering that might have parallels in glass art?
How has technology influenced your work and the techniques you use?
Personal Insights
In our recent conversation, Shane shared his insights on the overlap between engineering and glass art. 'At first glance, they seem worlds apart,' he noted, 'but when you break it down, you realize we’re both problem solvers, using creativity to shape materials into something both functional and aesthetically pleasing.'"
What have you learned from your different paths, and how do you think they complement each other?
How do you think our differences have contributed to our strengths in our respective fields?
Additionally, Shane shared an anecdote about a project involving glass in the lens of a self-driving car camera. He explained the thermal dynamics, saying, ‘Just like in glassblowing, where you control the temperature to get the right shape and durability, in engineering, we have to consider how materials respond to heat and pressure. As the glass heats up, it becomes elastic, which can cause deformation that affects the camera’s focus.’ This connection highlighted the blend of science and artistry in both our careers, showing how our paths, though different, are deeply connected.”
Creative Processes
Despite their differences, both engineering and glassblowing converge in their shared goal of turning abstract ideas into tangible forms. Whether designing a piece of technology or shaping molten glass into a sculpture, both fields rely on a creative process that blends technical skill with imagination. At their core, both disciplines transform conceptual visions into physical reality through creativity and craftsmanship.
How do you approach problem-solving in engineering? Is there a creative aspect to it?
What similarities do you see between the challenges faced in engineering and those in glassblowing?
Conclusion
Looking back on our journeys, it’s clear that the overlap between engineering and glass art has dramatically influenced our careers. The shared principles of physics, chemistry, and creativity guide our work and inspire us to think outside the box. As Shane and I continue to explore these connections, we have fostered an invaluable recognition of how art and science can come together to create practical solutions and beautiful pieces.
Looking ahead, how do you see the intersection of engineering and glass art evolving? If we were to collaborate on a project, what do you envision it looking like?
We’re excited about the possibilities of learning more from each other across our respective fields in the near future. By combining our knowledge and skills, we can push the boundaries of both engineering and glass art, creating a space where creativity can flourish, and new ideas can arise. This partnership continually enhances our practices and demonstrates how art and science can work together, driving innovation and inspiring future generations.