Fall Co-op Rotation
Danielle
Experience Information
Employer: Herman Miller
Job Title: Manufacturing Operations Engineering Co-op
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Herman Miller is a 100+ year old company that produces office furniture. They put great importance into design, community service, and innovation into the furniture they make. The world headquarters is located in Zeeland, Michigan. There are manufacturing facilities in the U.S., China, Italy, and the United Kingdom. There are almost 6,000 employees worldwide.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I was the lead on several equipment/assembly line moves. I contacted suppliers and sales representatives for quotes of new equipment. Prepared documents and background for implementation of new tools/processes. I owned an assembly line, and was the main point of contact for day to day issues on the line, or ergonomic improvements. I also led weekly meetings for redesigning an area to help with flow, safety, and ergonomics. I designed a bunch of solutions on Solidworks for different problems. For example, press brakes needed new tables, and brackets for new light curtain distance. I designed and had all of it made up and reconnected. I also designed carts, deflectors, tables, guarding on machines etc. I did some plant layout as well.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I learned how to use a lot of different features in solidworks, like weldments. Also continued to build upon Autocad knowledge. Presentation skills were enhanced by leading meetings, and day to day communication skills.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of this rotation was learning more about processes in this plant as well as travel to other plants to see their processes. Gaining knowledge like that is interesting and invaluable. Also, hands on experience was great. It helped me to understand certain struggles, and just break up the day. Being able to look at something and say you designed/built it is cool to see come together.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
It has kept me interested in possibly doing manufacturing for my career. If spots become available I might also be open to obtaining a full time job with the company.
Internship Format
In Person