Engineering Co-Op I
David
Experience Information
Employer: SAF-Holland
Job Title: Engineering Co-Op
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
SAF-Holland provides top tier commercial vehicle components such as coupling products, suspensions, and landing gear systems. Having headquarters in Germany and America, SAF-Holland spans the globe to cover the design, manufacturing, and distribution of quality engineered parts to the commercial vehicle industry.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Here at SAF-Holland, I have mostly been working on improvements to lab supplies and cost reducing tooling with regards to coupler products (Fifth Wheels). As the semester progressed, I got into more complex projects such as: redesign proposal for fifth wheel components, design of new crimping tool, FEA analysis on fifth wheel components, and much more.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Skills gained through this experience include organization, project planning, and CAD practices. I have learned a lot over the past semester here starting with the history, product and procedures of the company. Once I understood the product, then I was able to start application work. My CAD skills and knowledge through Solidworks have tripled in the amount of time that I have been here. The standards of parts and drawings are so high that even the smallest mistake can be detrimental. This was gained through trial and error as well as many visits to numerous designers. My communication skills have increased as well both orally and written.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part would have to be the hands on work. Although a great deal of work is done in front of a computer screen, the ability to go to the lab and work on prototypes or tooling provides a break from sitting along with visually seeing the product take shape. Another favorite is that I am working out of the Holland office. This provides a smaller work space than the main offices in Muskegon. Being in a smaller work space allowed me to gain more personal relationships with my coworkers.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I chose SAF-Holland because of my personal interests in the automobile industry. By being here, I have solidified my passion for this industry and what I want to do in the future. I am extremely happy with my choice to work with SAF-Holland.