GHSP - Test Lab Intern

Robert

Experience Information

Employer: GHSP
Job Title: Test Lab - Electrical Engineering Intern
Major: Engineering - Computer
Received Credit?: Yes
Paid?: Yes

Description of the Organization

GHSP designs full shift systems for cars as well as smart actuators. In addition to their engineering/production facilities they also have an A2LA Accredited Test Lab for Design and product verification.

Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed

I started my co-op by running tests for the technicians. Eventually I began designing and putting together my own boxes for the technicians to use, and writing software to monitor shifters as they underwent testing. I designed a circuit board to allow a computer to communicate with shifters through a LIN network and a USB port.

Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience

I learned an amazing amount about exactly what kinds of hardware were out there to use as well as stands in the electronics industry. I also learned about programming Logic Devices with machine code, and went to training for programming with Nation Instruments LabVIEW. Now, if I was asked to design a circuit to do something more than just a voltage amplifier or divider, I would know how to combine different IC's to get the job done.

Favorite Part of the Experience

Having the freedom to create my own designs, but also the guidance of a validation engineer right down the hall for suggestions and to stop me from making any big mistakes. Any mistakes that were caught by someone else I got to fix myself also, which was nice because I still felt accomplished that I designed and created the project.

How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals

It has only reassured me in my choice of major. I love being able to write code at a desk, but also be able to be out in the lab soldering and putting my designs together with my own hands. As for my future, as long as I get to work with electronics like this I will be very content.

All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of GVSU.