Driven to make Healthcare Better
Allison
Experience Information
Employer: Stryker Instruments
Job Title: Computer/Software Advanced Quality Engineering intern
Major: Computer Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Stryker is one of the largest global medical device companies. World headquarters is located in Kalamazoo, MI. Stryker Instruments creates a large variety of power tools used for orthopedic surgery, delicate hand tools for nero/spine surgery, power systems, protective gear for surgeons, OR products, and waste management systems.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
I worked as an intern in Advanced Quality Engineering for this co-op. I supported two different teams in reviewing, executing, and correcting software scripts. For one team, I received official training to execute the scripts in test lab and sign my name off on everything. I also worked on two other projects independently. I designed an excel macro/app for my mentor, which automatically sorts through thousands of lines of complaint data he previously had to manually organize for days. This will aid him in completing Risk Management Forms, which is a common process for AQEs. My program will be used by multiple engineers. I also did some work with an engineer involved in the design of surgical power tools. Stryker receives runtime data during surgery for every drill currently out in the field. I organized and performed statistical analysis on the data, and gave him an estimate of life-use, and single-use metrics for the tools. He could then use this information to communicate to customers on how to use the tools properly.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
Having my hands in multiple projects and working with many different teams was a great opportunity to learn the in's and out's of the medical devices currently in development. I gained a lot of technical knowledge, as well as knowledge about Stryker's Quality System.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I learned about many devices that Stryker Instruments makes. Not only did I learn technical details of how the devices work, but also how they were are used by surgeons in the operating room. Discovering how much Stryker values the voice of the customer made me realize the true quality in the products that this company produces. My favorite part about working for Stryker is seeing how closely my work can directly impact the well-being of not only the general public, but my own family and friends.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I have plans to pursue a master's degree in Biomedical Engineering at GVSU, and working for Stryker this summer in AQE has motivated me to invest in producing high quality work. My future career goal is to be in a position that I can connect my work very closely to the customer that is impacted. The medical device industry is evolving with emerging technologies, and having the ability to design products that will improve anybody's life is something truly special to me.