Co-Op II at Herman Miller
Cameron
Experience Information
Employer: Herman Miller
Job Title: NE Engineering Co-Op
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Herman Miller is a main manufacturer of furniture that is based out of Zeeland, Michigan. It was founded in 1905 and one of the oldest producers of furniture in west Michigan. They have manufacturing plants all over the world and manufacturing plants in Holland, Spring Lake, and Zeeland. At the Spring Lake location they produce all steel manufactured products.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Over the course of the first two semesters, I was responsible for designed and implemented several fixtures that were used for producing products. I also provided engineering support for Lateral Assembly Lines production. I also worked with another engineer to justify purchasing an bottom sealing bander for shipping as a capital project. Working with another engineer we outsourced product to an outside vendor. I also worked to develop a roll formed part on an automated bender. This would bring a part back in house from an outside vendor.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Through this experience I was able to develop project planning skills, people management skills, hands on experience, and budgeting skills. I also utilized CAD to design the fixtures that were implemented. I also with project, product, manufacturing, and quality engineers to accomplish several projects. This gave me some experience in each of these occupation provided me with incite of which area I enjoyed the most.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this co-op experience was working taking on the new projects to push my development as an engineer. Everyone is very easy to work with at Herman and there is a lot of knowledge to be gained from colleagues. I enjoyed an endless supply of projects to work on throughout the co-op experience.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
Working at Herman Miller has shown me which engineering jobs are a good fit and which ones are not for my passions. Following graduation I would like to work as either a project, manufacturing, or product engineer prior to being an engineering manager.