JR Automation Co-op 2
Natalie
Experience Information
Employer: JR Automation
Job Title: Controls Engineering Intern
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
JR Automation is a large automation company that has recently gone global with locations on three continents. There are nearly 2,000 employees in 15 locations. Holland, MI is where the headquarters are located and where I spent my rotation. JR automates processes with custom designed and built equipment for companies in industries such as automotive, medical, aerospace, food and beverage, and more.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I spent time this semester doing a few different things. The first thing I worked on was making red-line changes to electrical and pneumatic prints. Next, I set up a vision system to be able to take a picture of a completed part and determine whether is was good or bad. After that, I was placed on a project team and got the opportunity to assist in the PLC programming and creation of HMI screens for a new project. I also spent a little bit of time teaching points to robots.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I gained skills in everything that I did this semester. Much of the knowledge needed to complete tasks at JR was learned on the job for me. Setting up a vision system, programming a PLC, and creating HMI screens were all new to me coming into this rotation. By the end of the semester, I felt comfortable with my knowledge in all of them.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this rotation was having the opportunity to be a part of a project team and have similar responsibilities as the other full-time engineers who were on the team with me.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience has, once again, confirmed that engineering is the right career for me. The critical thinking and problem solving that is always present in this field keeps every day interesting and exciting.