Engineering Co-Op Rotation One at Motion Mechanics LLC
Dylan
Experience Information
Employer: Motion Mechanics LLC
Job Title: Associate Engineering Intern
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Motion Mechanics is a small engineering firm based out of Holland, MI. We do product development work (concept to launch) for small to large companies (public and private) who don't have the engineering horsepower or expertise to do it themselves. We deal mostly with complex machine design like outdoor equipment and commercial floor-care products. We have five full time engineers and 5-7 part time employees to help during peaks in development.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
This semester I was able to design, build and test. I designed various mounts for a company that we developed a front mount blower for. These mounts adapted to various z-Turn mowers and golf course vehicles. I also was able to go through a prototype build of a floor scrubber and do a lot of validation testing. Whether it was developing mounts or building the scrubbers I was able to do a lot of testing and troubleshooting.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I was able to learn Solidworks to a proficient level, including weldment, sheet metal and injection mold design. It was a great experience and I was able to see multiple points in the product development process. I learned how to talk to suppliers, and I even got to experience an acquisition, because my supervisor was selling one of his companies products that we developed to a larger company.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this co-op experience was the fact that I had freedom to design and work things out on my own. They let me run with things and put my own twist on designs. I would get feedback after my designs and I ended up learning a lot from that. I appreciate this way of learning and I ended up learning a tremendous amount from it.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
When I graduate Motion Mechanics will be at the top of my list of potential employers. I really enjoy working here and the freedom that I have. We have great collaboration and great ideas that we are able to develop here. Product development is a great field and I definitely think that I found my niche.