Co-op Semester 3
Kalee
Experience Information
Employer: Burke E. Porter Machinery
Job Title: Software Engineering Co-op
Major: Computer Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Burke E. Porter Machinery is a company that manufactures vehicle testing equipment for major car manufacturers including Chrysler, GM, Ford, Tesla, Nissan, and other car companies. They also build power-train component testing equipment and tire line assembly and testing equipment. They have several offices around the world including plants in China, Brazil, Europe, and the United States.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I modified existing test software for our current test system and I wrote and validated new testing software for that system. I also worked on an application tied to the new system my company is working on that is written in C#.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I gained experience writing software in the C/C++/C# languages and in interacting with other employees and customer representatives. I also learned how to validate and debug software in high pressure situations.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I was able to go to a customer plant and validate the new test software I created based on the customer specifications. I was able to work with the customer to run the test and I was able to debug software issues at the plant.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
My co-op experience showed me what it's like to work as a software engineer for industry and confirmed for me that this is the career I wanted to pursue. I gained experience writing software in the C/C++/C# languages and in interacting with other employees and customer representatives, which can be used in my career in the future.