Co-Op at Magna
Alexander
Experience Information
Employer: Magna
Job Title: APD Student Intern
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Magna International Inc. is a global automotive supplier headquartered in Aurora, Ontario, Canada. In 2014 it was the largest automobile parts manufacturer in North America by sales of original equipment parts, and one of Canada's largest companies. Its operating groups include Magna Steyr, Magna Powertrain, Magna Exteriors, Magna Seating, Magna Closures, Magna Mirrors, Magna Electronics and Cosma International. Magna manufactures auto parts that are primarily supplied to General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Chrysler LLC, Tesla Motors, Volkswagen, BMW and Toyota. In Europe, Magna Steyr holds contracts for the assembly of the Peugeot RCZ and Mini Countryman. Magna has approximately 124,000 employees in 287 manufacturing operations and 81 product development, engineering and sales centers in 29 countries. Magna operates under a corporate constitution which calls for distribution of profits to employees and shareholders. The terms of this contract are fair enterprise according to Frank Stronach, company founder.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
This semester I participated in a variety of EMC, Spot meter, Illuminance Reduction, Current Draw, Extreme Environmental Resistance, and Light Consistency Tests. I also assisted with various design alterations and testing concerning a prototype rearview camera design and several prototype light indicator module designs.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Working with a shifting timescale and knowing how to better segment my focus so that I can assist with multiple projects at once. I also had to deal with the failure of my idea to fix an environmental problem. Despite a lot of my research and testing showing promising results early on, the idea did not pan out in more extreme conditions. It was unfortunate, but it was also a key part of any research and development process. You must sometimes fail to know what won't work in the future.
Favorite Part of the Experience
Part of my groups responsibilities is quarterly innovation meetings where we have to present new ideas. I am always impressed by the creative solutions and ideas exhibited by my fellow coworkers and coop students.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I would say it has given me a great deal of experience in automotive research and testing. Ideally I would love to continue working with Magna and continue in this field of study.