Architectural / Building Mechanical Engineering
David
Experience Information
Employer: FTCH
Job Title: Technician
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber (FTCH) is a complete architectural and engineering consulting company founded in West Michigan more than 60 years ago. FTCH has over 360 staff members in nine regional offices throughout the Midwest. Because FTCH's expertise extends to numerous aspects of building engineering and design, the in-house connection of its specialists brings about a superior level of innovation and comprehensiveness to each project. Many projects consist of university buildings throughout Michigan including GVSU, U of M, and MSU.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I performed energy analysis for several buildings (Van Andel Institute, University of Cincinnati, and GVSU) to determine if any energy conservation measures (ECMs) could provide reduced energy costs. In some cases, the buildings are preexisting and the ECMs include adjustments and additions to older systems. In the case of a GVSU project in early design phase, building energy modeling provides useful insight for equipment selection and design strategies. Functional testing building automated systems is another task I was able to perform for Purdue's Active Learning Center. The testing consists of running the building's automated controls systems through all modes of operation to ensure systems will function as designed under all conditions (time, thermal loading, seasonal, etc)
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I polished communication skills as I worked with a variety of engineers and architects. During functional testing, critical thinking was utilized to come up with solutions to issues that arose on the fly. Self-sufficiency and research skills were employed to learn new programs as the first user.
Favorite Part of the Experience
Learning new skills and gaining career-based knowledge. Working with great people. I was also chosen to build a mini-golf hole for our department which was a lot of fun.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
It has reinforced my decision to focus on this type of engineering. I have also learned of the many types of accreditation and licenses that are highly regarded in this area of engineering.