IPM Co-Op - Rotation II
Kyle
Experience Information
Employer: Integrated Packaging Machinery (IPM)
Job Title: Mechanical Engineer
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Integrated Packaging Machinery (IPM) is a smaller company located in Rockford, MI. Founded in 1998, the company has now grown to over one-hundred employees. IPM focuses on conveyor and robotic palletizing for dairy companies all across the continental US.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
As a mechanical engineering Co-Op, I was tasked with designing both product and palletizing conveyor for this rotation. This included drawing up the conveyor in SolidWorks, creating installation instructions or drawings for the installation teams, and detailing parts. Additionally, I helped test robot cells on the shop floor and assisted shop floor workers design and modify conveyor when defects or misalignment of parts prevented the conveyor from working as designed.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
While the first Co-Op rotation focused on familiarizing me with processes and procedures at IPM, the second rotation focused on building my mechanical aptitude. Larger projects were entrusted to me and deadlines became more important. SolidWorks and AutoCAD are the most heavily used software programs for engineers. Therefore, my skills with those programs were enhanced throughout the semester. Two universally applicable skills learned this rotation were welding specifics and pneumatic systems.
Favorite Part of the Experience
The most enjoyable part of the second rotation would be the satisfaction and sense of achievement by seeing pictures and video of conveyor I designed last Co-Op rotation finally integrated and running on the job site. Knowing that projects I was directly involved in are finally being used daily on site provides me with a great sense of pride and joy.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
The experience has provided me with practical skills and trouble solving methods for common mechanical systems. Additionally, I learned more about welding and pneumatic schematics that would be useful at any other future mechanical engineering opportunity.
Internship Format
In Person