First Co-op Semester at Herman Miller
Daniel
Experience Information
Employer: Herman Miller
Job Title: Machine Design Intern
Major: Product Design and Manufacturing Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Herman Miller is a global company that designs and manufactures furniture. The company is best known for high-end office furniture, but has more recently expanded into medical, consumer, and other fields.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
A primary focus of my internship was to evaluate potential uses for 3D printing within both my specific department and the company in general. I also designed a fixture which causes a sign to flip 180 degrees when a rope is pulled and completed several other smaller projects.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Obviously, I learned a ton about 3D printing. I did a lot of research online to learn about the current capabilities and different types of 3D printers, attended a 3D printing conference in Detroit to see the technology firsthand, helped my work team decide on a specific 3D printer to buy, and became the expert (or at least experienced amateur) on using it when it arrived. Beyond that, I gained a knowledge of what a "real life" engineering workplace is like and an understanding of what it's like to be an engineer. Taking engineering classes is an important step towards becoming an engineer but they are no substitute for real world experience in the field.
Favorite Part of the Experience
It felt awesome to go to work every day and play with cutting edge technology.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I have thoroughly enjoyed working for Herman Miller this summer. I look forward to returning for the other two co-op terms and could definitely see myself working in the furniture industry after graduation if things work out that way.