Design your Dreams. Build your Future.
Jonathan
Experience Information
Employer: JR Automation Technologies, LLC
Job Title: Controls Engineering/Concept & Cost Development/Mechanical Engineering
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
JR Automation is a designer and builder of world leading lean automated manufacturing. They service such industries as Automotive, Medical, Food Service and many more. The company is comprised of several business units in West Michigan. Each facility has a specific set of capabilities and expertise, but each is diverse enough to support one another. The work environment is complex, fast pace, and highly collaborative. The staff primarily consists of engineers and builders, who work together to provide simple solutions to complex problems. JR Automation is a unique company within a critical industry providing exceptional solutions.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
JR Automation allowed me the unique experience to explore multiple roles and disciplines of engineering. First I spent time as a Design Engineer where I created, checked, and released detailed prints for mechanical assemblies. I also was given the opportunity to design some mechanical components for machines. This was a great introduction into the design process. Second I spent time as a Concept & Cost Development Engineer where I developed concepts and processes to achieve customer requirements/goals. Here I worked directly with customers and sales engineers to develop a solution and provide a detailed quotation of proposed work. This allowed me more insight into the business management side of the company. Lastly, I spent time as a Controls Engineer, which is not typical of a mechanical engineering rotation. Here I was able to get an introduction into what role an electrical engineer plays in the automated manufacturing world. Here I was tasked with assisting in the design and programming of a machines control system. This included an introduction to robotics, vision systems, and ladder logic machine programming. This cross-discipline training will provide me with knowledge and experience that is invaluable.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
JR Automation, through this experience, has equipped me skills and knowledge to work collaboratively across multiple departments within an organization in order to efficiently provide high-quality solutions. The companies' attention to detail and drive to produce the best solution has taught me the importance of a company having a clear mission. The people have taught me the importance of fellowship and comradery. These are all on top of the specialized training in parametric modeling, simulation software, cost development & analysis, robotics, and machine programming.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of my co-op experience at JR Automation has been my ability to gain valuable real-world experience while continuing my formal education. The unique ability for me to move within a company and to learn its inner workings has influenced what courses I will take to complete my degree. Also, the work that I do and the people that I work with everyday make the experience that much sweeter.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This experience has emboldened me to continue to pursue my goals within engineering, while introducing me into a unique and complex industry that is a main artery for global supply chain. This has left me wanting to gain more experience within JR Automation or manufacturing industry. The skills and knowledge I have learned will prove valuable in any role I find myself in provided me with an expanded view of possibilities. Could I be a CEO? Could I provide the next great solution? Will you?