Consumer products and packaging

Bryan

Experience Information

Employer: Ranir, LLC
Job Title: Engineering Tech
Major: Engineering - Mechanical
Received Credit?: Yes
Paid?: Yes

Description of the Organization

Ranir is a global provider of dental care products including toothbrush, floss and teeth whitening. We specialize in providing private label products and also market our own branded lines as well.

Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed

As an engineering tech I was required to assist several different types of engineers. I spend the majority of my time with Ranir creating packaging designs including blister molds, backer cards, cartons and shipping boxes. More recently I have been privileged with designing new products including a flosser and two flosser dispensers for home and retail use. I have also worked with process and automation engineers designing machine components and aiding with run-off testing of new equipment.

Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience

I have learned an incredible amount of packaging knowledge which in turn has led to a better understanding of the entire design process. I now have a greater appreciation of the teamwork and collaboration that is required to bring ideas to reality. Specifically to my work experience I have leaned to design usable thermoform molds, plastic injection molded parts and how to effectively promote and merchandise products on a global level. One of the greatest skills that I have acquired is effective communication while working with many people from other countries.

Favorite Part of the Experience

My favorite part of my coop experience is seeing my work in stores. I have worked on many products that are now available at local retailers and I have also designed packaging that is used in Europe and Asia as well. I have also recently been named as an Inventor on a recently applied for patent.

How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals

Working at Ranir has really opened my eyes to the diversity of engineering. Engineers must be highly adaptive and flexible. Within most organizations engineers hold a broad range of responsibilities and are expected to be great problem solvers. In total, Ranir has influenced my passion for product design. After working with consumers products I cannot go into a store without thinking about all the work and forethought that is required to produce the goods we use everyday.

All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of GVSU.