Gateway to learning Electronics
Brad
Experience Information
Employer: Flex n Gate
Job Title: Electronics Lab
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Flex n Gate is a multi-billion dollar automotive supplier with operations scattered around the world. At the Grand Rapids plant they mold and assemble tail lights for some of the biggest names in the auto industry.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
The electronics lab was responsible for a large portion of the testing equipment used on the production floor. The most popular testing unit is known as the "lunch box" these are small boxes that allow the user to power a tail lamp and test the functionality of each lamp. Each of the boxes are built for a specific model of lamp, meaning that there are hundreds scattered around the plant. I was given the task to build these as well as maintain them when they broke. I also build more advanced testing units known as "smart lamps" these lamps allowed for individual LED control and were programmed with a micro controller. Throughout this rotation I specifically worked on the Ford Edge and the Ford Mustang.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Working with basic electrical components was great experience as I was able to fully understand the way they work. I spent a large amount of time working with micro controllers and using them to control the functions of each lamp. This brought real world applications into the ideas that we learn in the classroom.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of the co-op experience is the environment in which I work in. I have two other electrical engineers who sit in the same lab as I do, this allows us to accomplish a much greater amount of work due to the fact we are able to share ideas. There were countless times where we would all stop what we were doing and just sit back and brainstorm about the best way to perform the given task at hand.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I have always wanted to work in the auto industry and this experience has further pushed me into pursuing that industry. As demanding as this field is at times it is powerful to see the work that you put in everyday on the road.