Fall Controls Experience
Carl
Experience Information
Employer: JR Automation
Job Title: Controls Engineer
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
JR Automation is a Robotics company based out of Holland/Zeeland Michigan. The company thrives on innovation, while building on the solid foundations of experience, JR Automation Technologies, LLC rose from its modest one man, one shed origins to become a leading capital equipment designer and manufacturer throughout the world. The company produces a highly wide variety of machinery that are none less than impressive and innovative.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Controls engineering at JR Automation entails a wide variety of different tasks in order to build even the simplest of machinery. I was able to start projects from the ground up and see the finished product a few months later. The key tasks to be completed began with designing electrical prints. This entails every little aspect of electrical design from calculating robot in rush currents and transformer sizes to creating the BOM and ordering the required components. Other tasks include HMI and PLC programming. Both of these components are designed from the ground up and include many hours of work. The final part of the build process is to debug the machine. This could mean debug the I/O or the code itself.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
This is my second Co-Op with JR Automation and it yet again has left me with an unforgettable experience. Before the fall semester I had no idea where to even begin designing one these innovative and highly unique machines. I now feel comfortable and confident when designing electrical prints, ordering components, performing current and voltage calculations. I also acquired a insurmountable amount of knowledge in PLC programming, HMI design, debugging hardware, and Siemens software. To see how all of these components interact with one another was the most rewarding experience.
Favorite Part of the Experience
The best part of this Co-Op experience would easily have to be the amount of knowledge I was able to acquire in such a short amount of time. I was able to see the correlation between all of the education I have been receiving and the real world. Another thing that always makes this an unforgettable experience is the amazing atmosphere. The co-workers are friendly and always willing to help those who do not quite have their knowledge. JR Automation is truly a family atmosphere and the relationships I have made with people there will surely last a lifetime.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
My experience at JR Automation has allowed me to know that I have chosen the correct path. It is a great feeling to know that I know I will love my future full-time job as an engineer.