Work Instructions
Dustin
Experience Information
Employer: PSG Grand Rapids
Job Title: Manufacturing Engineering Intern/Co-op
Major: Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
PSG Grand Rapids has a foundry that creates cast iron parts to be machined in other areas of the plant. The machined parts are sent to other areas of the plant and assembled into various pumps, compressors, and other fluid transfer equipment.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Over the course of my second co-op experience, I wrote work instructions for different areas of the plant. The areas were the test stand for bypass valves, compressor assembly, and UPS shipping area. The instructions included steps and pictures for each step to eliminate confusion for the operator. I designed different ideas for a lifting device for one of their compressors. I also updated the plant layout for the core area of the foundry for equipment that was rearranged.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I have gained much experience with ProWorks, the software used to create process plans and work instructions. I also gained basic skills in AutoCad. These software were not introduced in any of the courses taken for the Engineering program.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I really enjoyed the different types of people I met while working in all the different areas. Many of the Engineers in the office act like they're at a higher level than the people on the floor because they have a college degree. Everybody is still human and deserves as much respect as anybody else.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
My future career goals are to not work in a factory that has a union. It just seems like there are too many legalities and I'm always worried if I'm doing something I shouldn't as far as doing union labor and can get a grievance filed against me.