Test Software Engineer Intern
John
Experience Information
Employer: L-3 Communications
Job Title: Software Engineer
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
L-3 Communications, Avionics Systems supplies avionics to the military, commercial, and general aviation markets. Even though L-3 Communications as a whole is a global company, the avionics division still has the small company feeling to it - everyone knows each other.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
During the time spent here, I was able to be involved in many different areas. Anywhere from fixing problems that arouse in the production line (both hardware and software), to developing software and hardware used to test new units going through qualification testing. The task that I was able to spend the most time on was writing/updating code for stations that were being upgraded from Windows XP machines to Windows 7. Much of the hardware used in Windows XP is not supported in Windows 7, therefore the code had to be altered to communicate with a new pieces of hardware. This gave me the opportunity to learn how many different communication protocols work, and how to interface with many different components.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
This position allowed my software knowledge and skills to grow immensely, as well as my problem solving skills. Entering into the position, I only knew a single class worth of programming. I now feel very experienced in C and python, as well as a small amount of C++. My problem solving has also been able to grow while working here. There have been many times where the best fix a problem was something thought of out of the ordinary.
Favorite Part of the Experience
The work environment here is the best part of the experience. Even though it is a very high pace facility, in that there the list of things to do is constantly growing, everyone here is understanding and considerate. We have the ability to work whatever hours desired, as long as the project/task gets done. If I don't want to get in the way of the production team, but I need to work on one of the PC's in the line, working after hours or even on a Saturday is widely acceptable here.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
After working here, I feel like I will be able to perform much better in other work environments. This position pushed me for the better, exercising my learning abilities. I now know how to better attack problems that may occur in the work force, and feel comfortable doing so.