First Engineering Co-Op
Gunnar
Experience Information
Employer: JR Automation
Job Title: Mechanical Engineering Intern
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
This summer I worked for an automation company located in Holland, MI. Our company basically designed and built robot cells to perform various tasks, a growing and very cool industry that introduced me to a lot of different processes used in industry.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Jr allowed me to experience a wide range of tasks, mainly detailing projects (placing dimensions on 2D prints), checking other designers work, and updating drawings to how a machine was actually built. I also got to get out on the build floor and experience some of the actual building of the machines.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I learned a lot about how the working world differs from the classroom and how to successfully navigate a professional environment. A lot of the things I learned on Co-Op were things that really just cannot ever be learned in a classroom, something that I think helps set Grand Valley apart from other engineering schools.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I really liked the office environment at JR and think that it was one that was definitely on the cutting edge of how the design industry is being run. The office was a nice open space that really encouraged good communication between employees that made asking for help seem much less taboo.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I have learned that engineering really is the place for me and cannot wait to get into the working world more often. It has made me realize that there is a lot that I have to learn outside of the classroom and cannot wait to start gaining more and more experience.