Co-op Rotation Semester 1
Matthew
Experience Information
Employer: Hydro-Chem Systems
Job Title: Engineering Intern
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
HydroChem supplies wash solutions for fleet vehicles such as school busses and municipal vehicles. These solutions can vary from a full automated wash system installed by us or to just purchase soaps or concentrates made in house by the chemical team.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Some of the tasks I completed during my first co-op rotation were updating various designs of wash arches and components, updating prints by taking feedback from the production and service teams about pain points that need to be addressed. A larger project I took on was to update and redesign our in house built pressure washer that we provide should our customers need it.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
One glaring skill I attained was a great deal of knowledge on how to skillfully operate SolidWorks. Another skill I have now is one that I never thought I would use to the extent I did and that is the communication between different departments of the company. I really don't think that the importance of teaching in-depth communication can be stressed enough.
Favorite Part of the Experience
My favorite part of my experience was the full understanding of our processes that my supervisor was able to give me from the design meeting where the engineering team gets our hands on the project for the first time to the start-up of the system.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
This opportunity has broadened my view to consider more niche industries as an option for a long term career as an engineer rather than sticking to larger companies.
Internship Format
Hybrid (some in person and some remote)