Innotec - Visors
Zachary
Experience Information
Employer: Innotec Group
Job Title: Mechanical Engineering Co-op
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Innotec Group is a manufacturing company that makes many different products. Various cells make up the company, for example visors for cars, lighting for cars and lawnmowers, furniture, and also water filters.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
While working in JVP covers, a cell which made visor covers, I completed projects, both large and small. I worked on a device that removed the pins from scrapped parts so that the remaining plastic part could be used as regrind in another cell's process. I also got experience working on controls in order to optimize the molding process, as well as streamlining the process.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I got much more experience learning how to make professional projects with my hands by utilizing manual mills, power tools, welds, etc. I learned what it takes to run a small business (each cell is treated like a small business), and how to see a project through from start to finish. I got to work alongside brilliant engineers, and help think through difficult application problems.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I really enjoyed the freedom that Innotec offered for their co-ops. I was allowed to follow-up on projects that I wanted to do, and offered help when needed. I could work on the projects that interested me the most, and even got to lead a team which taught me great management skills.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I am so glad that I got experience on the manufacturing side of engineering. I was interested in design before the co-op, and my manufacturing experience, I believe, has made me in to a better designer because I got to see good machine design... and bad.