Co-op I: Innotec Group
Lauren
Experience Information
Employer: Innotec Group
Job Title: Co-op
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Innotec is an innovative company made up of mostly engineers, who design creative products and processes. The organizational structure is unlike any other business, since all employees are business owners who work in small units called cells that design, build, and manufacture automated solutions. Innotec has bases on four different continents, and has around 3,000 US employees.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I helped wire machines, build machines, create and update schematics, use CAD to design solutions, and helped move a launch product into production. I also was able to learn how to use different electrical equipment and conduct studies directly for our customer.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I learned how to rely on research of datasheets and schematics to apply electrical knowledge to projects. I also learned in depth the process of making a product move from launch (an idea) to production (mass production). I learned how to use flowchart programming, as well as how to troubleshoot many different machines.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this co-op was the level of responsibility that I was given from such an early time. My cell really trusted me to get my projects done, and I was treated like a full-time, respected, and valuable part of the team.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I solidified my choice to major in Electrical Engineering and minor in Computer Engineering. I also found out in this experience that 'automotive engineering' is actually a cool, interesting and an enjoyable field, which was a pleasant surprise to someone who came into this co-op not knowing anything about cars.