Koops Mechanical Engineering Co-op
Jacob
Experience Information
Employer: Koops Inc.
Job Title: Engineering Co-op (Second Rotation)
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Koop Incorporated is a custom automation company based in Holland, Michigan with a satellite location in South Carolina and an international location in Mexico. The company designs and builds custom machinery for a variety of industries, including the automotive, aerospace, medical, furniture, and defense industries. The company has approximately 200 employees total between all of its locations.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
During my co-op rotation as a member of the Koops mechanical engineering team my primary responsibility was to work on the mechanical design of custom automation equipment. The main tasks associated with this were the creation of accurate and detailed CAD models, part drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs). During the winter semester I had the opportunity to work on numerous projects in both assisting and primary designer roles.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I was able to develop a range of skills associated with the design of custom automation equipment, including advanced CAD software proficiency, component selection, design for machinability, design for assembly/disassembly, material selection, prioritization of design tasks, and customer interaction.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this specific co-op rotation was getting to hone my engineering design skills and knowledge while doing meaningful work for my co-op company. My favorite part about my co-op experience overall is that I get to work alongside people who are kind, care about their work, and good at what they do.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This co-op rotation has given me invaluable insight into the role of a design engineer in the custom automation industry. From this experience I am better able to understand what a career as a design engineer entails and what aspects of it I like and dislike. Overall it has influenced me to consider pursuing a design related engineering role as my career.