Final Rotation of Co-op at Panduit
Nicholas
Experience Information
Employer: Panduit
Job Title: Product Design Engineer Co-op (ME)
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Panduit is a global corporation headquartered in Tinley Park, IL, with over 5000 employees. It is a leading provider of electrical infrastructure solutions for various industries, such as data centers, enterprises, industrial networks, OEMs, and contract manufacturers. Panduit boasts a legacy of innovation, with over 2000 patents to its name. Panduitýs wide range of products ensures smart, scalable, and efficient connectivity solutions across the enterprise to help businesses compete and succeed in a constantly evolving global marketplace.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
My primary project was to organize a team of engineers and lead meetings to develop a new product. The solution I was involved in will extend Panduit's current offering of cable cleats, which is a product that secures cables in the case of a short circuit event, or disaster. I was mainly involved in the brainstorming and iteration phase of the project, where I created concepts based on feedback and constraints, and assisted in financial estimations and planning for the project. Additionally, I assisted in 3D CAD modeling our other products based on engineering drawings, updated documentation, and managed a full testing and comparison of metal locking cable ties and strapping products.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I gained large amount of insight in the process of developing a new product. I learned researching skills, finding the most important factors in improving a product and gaining an edge over competitors. A very important skill I've gained is to break down large problems, ones in which are unclear how to solve them, into smaller manageable problems. I became increasingly capable of doing this on the fly during meetings. I've also improved my ability to lead a meeting, and keep a team on track. Furthermore, I became more proficient in CAD modeling.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part was being a member of a great team of engineers, drafters, and toolroom/production workers. Everyone I met at Panduit always had a positive attitude and were happy to help me whenever I needed. They guided me through my 3 rotations and I could not have learned as much without them. I appreciate them, and my manager who was always willing to work with me, and kindly provide feedback and support.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I've learned that I need to prioritize soft skills in the workplace, along with technical skills. I've found that soft skills can be just as important, as it is impossible to be efficient in a workplace without them.
Internship Format
Hybrid (some in person and some remote)