Koops Summer Co-op: First rotation
Cory
Experience Information
Employer: Koops Automation Systems
Job Title: Controls Programming Co-op
Major: Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Koops Automation Systems is an employee owned company based in Holland, MI. Koops builds and supplies a number of different industries with the latest automation machines. Throughout the year, Koops has many co-op and intern roles adding to the 230+ full time employees.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
During my summer semester, I was a part of the Controls Programming team. My mentor and I worked on an automated conveyor line used to assemble a small oil pump. From day to day we problem solve issues involved with programming, vision systems, robots, sensors, and lights.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
During this rotation, I specifically learned how to properly write ladder style programming and Fanuc robot programming. I also learned the basics behind barcode scanners, vision systems, and lights. Many days involved debugging and hands on work to get the machine running properly.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part about this co-op rotation revolved around the hands on, problem solving experience. When I was first told I was going to be on the controls team I wasn't excited to sit behind a desk all day. I quickly learned that controls is much more hands on and involved than I ever would have thought.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
One of my largest goals is to find a job in my field before finishing my degree at GVSU. Before this co-op, I would not have considered the controls programming team. After this co-op, I could see myself being a part of this team long term.
Internship Format
In Person