Manufacturing Engineering Co-op
Peter
Experience Information
Employer: Emerald Corporation
Job Title: Manufacturing Engineering Co-op
Major: Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Emerald Corporation engineers and manufactures decorative products for automotive, appliance, and medical markets. The decorating capabilities of Emerald includes Class A surface (robotic) painting, screen printing, in-mold decorating, laser etching, hot stamping, and digital printing. Emerald is a smaller company that provides decorative solutions to many companies throughout the mid west. Due to the smaller size of emerald the structure of the company is very compacted. Unlike large companies that have their warehouses as a separate building than their manufacturing, Emerald's company is all under one roof.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Some of the projects that I have accomplished include equipment implementation, CAD modifications, data measurement analysis, project development, time studies. I felt as though I was able to get a wide range of different projects working in different areas of the manufacturing plant. I really got the feel for what Emerald does and what they are capable of doing. One part of my job that I enjoyed the most was working with equipment (new or old) in project development. Often times when decorating a part, there is more than one way to do it. So determining the best way is crucial to meet quality standards and testing standards.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Throughout my co-op I learned a lot about the different decorating processes. Processes such as laser etching and screen printing are among the ones that I was not very familiar with. I learned about the screen making process and became familiar with a couple new computer programs to work some of the equipment. I also learned a lot about the digital printing and cutting machines that our company has.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this co-op experience was the chance to work closely with many of my co-workers (even those outside of the engineering department). Being able to work with a wide range of people really helped me develop good interpersonal skills. This falls right in place with the small company atmosphere where you really get the chance to know the people you work with. Another part of my co-op experience that I enjoyed was being able to work with some of the newer equipment for project development.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience has allowed me to realize that I enjoy working for a smaller company. No matter your position at Emerald you are a crucial part to the team and can truly impact the outcomes of any project that the company takes on. Every day I am able to leave work having a feeling that it was a productive day at the office.