2nd Rotation at Herman Miller - Great!
Jesse
Experience Information
Employer: Herman Miller Inc.
Job Title: Controls Engineer Co-op ý NE Engineering
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Herman Miller Inc. is an US-based furniture manufacturing company that has plants world-wide. They are based mainly in West Michigan. They produce high-end furniture that you'll often see knock-offs of in movies. Their main competitor is Steelcase.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I worked on several kinds of projects, but most involved updating or creating PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) code for industrial equipment, as well as creating documentation for them (Bill of Materials (BOM), CAD drawings, etc). I wasn't stuck at the desk all day, every day, as I would need to inspect the machines or lines I would be altering to make sure design would work in reality. I worked with people from several departments to complete projects, attending meetings and such.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I definitely learned how to best work with teams made of non-electrical engineering disciplines. This is critical for any project you work on, since you'll end up relying on others to complete their parts. It's a team effort, not always about the individual.
Favorite Part of the Experience
Not being stuck at the desk in office constantly. It was great bringing design to life and testing it for faulty behavior.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
Controls Engineering is a pretty stable job that pays fairly well, as well as having a good mix of office and field/floor work. This type of job is definitely one I could shoot for after graduation.