Engineering Co-op II
Ryan
Experience Information
Employer: Mill Steel Company
Job Title: Engineering Intern
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Mill Steel is a steel distribution company. We have plants located in Melvindale, MI, Grand Rapids, MI, and Birmingham, AL. We buy steel from steel mills and sell them to companies who produce steel parts through stamping and the use of die machines.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I supervised lab maintenance and testing of small steel samples taken from large master coils. I reviewed sample tests and compared results to determine if they were satisfactory for the type of steel. I filled out customer orders with coils that matched results, dimension, and weight requirements. I dealt with defective coils and handled them accordingly to minimize loss of company profit.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I have learned a lot about material application and quality, specifically in the area of steel. I can now understand different grades/types of steel and how their chemical and physical properties should work. I have also developed quality engineering skills by dealing with defects and material testing/failure.
Favorite Part of the Experience
Mill Steel offers a fun, friendly environment to work in. Many coworkers are younger and some are even interns like me, either in engineering or business related fields. There is always someone to help answer questions that you may have.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I have gained valuable experience and knowledge in dealing with material engineering. This could prove to be a useful skill set when applying for jobs in aeronautical engineering, which is an area I am considering going in to. Many companies are looking for recent grads with knowledge of failure analysis and different application situations where a variety of materials might be used.