Ravenna Ductile Iron Co-Op III
Nicholas
Experience Information
Employer: Metal Technologies Ravenna Ductile Iron
Job Title: Engineering Co-Op
Major: Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Metal Technologies Ravenna Ductile Iron (RDI) is a ductile iron foundry specializing in high volume, high requirement castings. Industries served include but are not limited to automotive, hydraulics, industrial and railroad. Metal Technologies Inc. is headquartered in Auburn, Indiana and employs roughly 1,300 individuals across 8 locations throughout the US and Mexico. RDI employs between 200 and 300 individuals.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
As a member of the RDI Engineering team projects this semester primarily revolved around the utilization of CAD software to design new mold patterns and reverse engineer existing patterns. The entire process from design to ordering and examination of new patterns was performed. I was also tasked with performing scrap analysis, wherein scrap castings were observed to determine patterns and trends to devise solutions and reduce scrap total. Hands-on tasks concerned with the cleaning and inspection of existing patterns were also performed daily.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Throughout the semester and the co-op experience I gained a better understanding of engineering environments and processes. Workload management and an understanding of workplace expectations was expanded on this semester, and skills regarding multitasking were improved. Knowledge gained through this experience included engineering mathematics as well as fluid and thermal dynamics.
Favorite Part of the Experience
The co-op experience at RDI involves both hands-on work and CAD design. In each of these categories there are many tasks to be completed. It is this diversity of tasks that has kept me enjoying every day of the co-op experience. At RDI you can make a change, design a product, and in the course of a single co-op semester see the results of that change or product. You'll never be without a task and can openly suggest ideas and designs with the supervisor and mentors.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This co-op experience has cemented my focus on design and manufacturing and the continuation of advancing my knowledge regarding CAD. My career goals regarding a place of employment have been heavily influenced by the informational and inviting nature of RDI. The atmosphere is one where an engineer can learn and thrive, improving themselves and their company.