Mechanical Engineering Co-Op -- 1st Rotation
Chad
Experience Information
Employer: Gentex Corporation
Job Title: Production Design Support
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Gentex is an international corporation (4000+ employees) focused on the automobile industry, specifically interior and exterior rear view mirrors. Despite the mundane nature of rear view mirrors, Gentex is heavily invested in continuous improvement and expansion toward new technologies and products. This is especially evident in the recently rolled out Full Display Mirror, which provides automobile drivers with a full screen, auto-dimming, high-definition, interior rearview mirror. Put simply, this is cool.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
This summer I completed a number of design projects related to continuous improvement in existing production flow. My role was design heavy, which entailed primarily CAD design. It also involved meaningful interaction with engineers, hourly team members, and production support to arrive at appropriate solutions to existing production issues. In some instances, I was involved in machining my designs from scratch.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
During my co-op experience at Gentex, I gained significant CAD and design "best practices" knowledge. This led to a meaningful increase in my level of confidence toward tackling projects of increasing scope and complexity. I've also gained a new, positive perspective from this co-op. Gentex, as a whole, is driven to develop people of character, responsibility, and initiative. This relational core creates a company wide atmosphere naturally inclined toward a growth mindset. Through my experience at Gentex, I've grown to invest more time and energy into the people I interact with every day.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I most enjoyed the work culture at Gentex. People I interact with seem to genuinely enjoy their work. Through the transparent and unpretentious leadership style, I felt that I made a tangible impact on the company. Also, Gentex invests its interns through company wide, fun networking events.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
Overall, this experience has positively influenced my desire and drive to become a mechanical engineer. I feel more impassioned in my pursuit of this career than when I began my co-op. Also, I feel that Gentex would be a great fit for a long-term career, and I'm excited to see how this journey will progress.