Consumers Energy Low Voltage Distribution Co-op
Tyler
Experience Information
Employer: Consumers Energy
Job Title: C&SI Electrical Engineering Co-op
Major: Electrical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Consumers Energy is the largest combined utility in Michigan, serving customers with both gas and electricity. It is a Fortune 500 company and has numerous service centers and facilities one could work at. There are also numerous departments ranging from business to engineering.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Projects assigned to me ranged from electric distribution line planning, concepts and designs. Tasks required for these projects included many detailed drawings, creative designs, technical calculations and accurate cost estimates. Other tasks required customer communication, and coordination with electric construction operations. In addition, I had the opportunity to tour many different Consumers Energy facilites that introduced me to other company operations such as the Webber Dam Hydro Plant, Ludington Pumped Storage, and J.H. Campbell Coal Plant.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Disregarding all of the technical skills I mentioned in the previous question, I learned a lot about safety given Consumers Energy's emphasis on safety with its required weekly safety meeting every Wednesday. I also learned how to efficiently and safely manage and use electricity in the electric utility industry. Other skills gained include me becoming more independent, resourceful, and better at communicating with both customers and fellow employees.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of my co-op experience was working storm and driving around looking for downed wires to secure them and help get our customers' power back on. Seeing the faces of people when their lights go back on is what makes working storm (sometimes up to 16 hours straight) worth it.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I loved working with Consumers Energy and it is a great fit for me. I majored in electrical engineering because my love for electrical power and Consumers Energy fits that bill perfectly. Consumers Energy provided me with a place to gain invaluable experience in the utility power industry and that experience will ultimately help lead me to become a knowledgeable, and proud electrical power engineer.