Consumers Energy Co-op Experience
Ryan
Experience Information
Employer: Grand Valley State University Student
Job Title: Cooperative Assistant LVD Planning - Metro
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Consumers Energy is one of the leading electric utilities for the state of Michigan. The company has multiple service centers scattered across the lower peninsula of Michigan. More than 6.7 of Michigan's residents rely on Consumers Energy for their electric/gas needs.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
During this internship, my main task was service design for the metro systems. Metro systems are all underground in major cities (Jackson, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Flint etc.) as opposed to overhead lines normally seen on poles. Using CAD software, I designed the existing and planned services for each of my jobs. I also did calculations in order to find the correct transformer and fuses for each of my jobs.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I gained the ability to use CAD software comfortably. I also became more comfortable working with those who know much more than me and asking a lot of questions. Working for consumers, I got the experience of both planning and design as they are all rolled into one for the metro department. I learned a lot of basic utility knowledge which included types of fuses, how to size transformers, power concepts, and cable sizing. I also learned a lot from my field work which involved pulling manholes and inspecting them for my designs.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of the internship was the people. Every day I went to work I always felt comfortable asking questions (and I mean a lot of questions) and seeking help from my coworkers. Even coworkers from other departments were very friendly and it was helped to create a very enjoyable environment even on the stressful days. I also enjoyed the balance I had between office and field work. We were able to do designs and then head out to the field to check to see if our designs were feasible which made it feel like I wasn't stuck in an office all the time.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience has allowed me to look for a career that has the same work environment as Consumers. The people really made this internship for me and I think it would have been completely different without them. I also am able to look for a career in while my office/field work balance is very good so I am not stuck at a desk all week. Consumers has made such an impact that I plan to seek a career at their company once I graduate.