JR Automation Controls Engineering Co-op
Robert
Experience Information
Employer: JR Automation
Job Title: Controls Engineering Co-op
Major: Computer Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
JR Automation used to be a small company but due to astonishing growth has been swelling to larger and larger size all the time. It's organizational structure, however, alleviates some of the growing pains and allows JR automation to continue to maintain a small company feel. The company is split into what are called business units (BU) that work on projects mostly independently of other BUs and the managers and employees are divided in a like manner. As such, while JR Automation may have hundreds of Controls Engineers company wide, my BU only had about 40 and even then there were only 6 other than me on the project. As such I worked with the same people in a friendly, close-knit, and casual environment each day, regardless of the company recently becoming a global systems integrator. The love providing their employees with numerous perks and lots of food too! Everyone I met during my time at JR was friendly, respectful, patient, and hard working!
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
The tasks I completed were largely dependent upon the project I was placed on, which I am not at liberty to disclose details about. In general terms, I did a great deal of HMI work, configuring and programming of numerous different devices around the line, teaching points to robots, device testing, and a whole lot of debugging. I also spent time communicating with suppliers regarding defective units for some of the devices and getting them replaced, updating electrical schematics in 2D CAD, as well as meeting with builders and electricians to determine solutions for some problems arising regarding alignment of mechanical components and wiring.
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I learned how to use 2D CAD, how to use Siemens HMI and programming software, how to communicate more effectively in a professional engineering environment, what it means to be truly finished with a task and the importance of a thorough debug process, as well as 3 coding languages: LAD, SCL, and VB.
Favorite Part of the Experience
The work I got to do filled me with a great sense of pride. I enjoyed going to work every day and constantly learning new things. I loved all the co-workers I got to spend time with at outings, work beside, and all of the food I got to eat at meetings or when customers visited. The environment was pleasant, the company was caring, the pay was great, the work was thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding, I cannot pick a favorite aspect of this co-op because it was all just so wonderful.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
I originally intended to get an MBA after finishing my engineering degree and attempt to move into management. Yet, I so thoroughly enjoyed my work that, depending on how future rotations and the years with the company following my being hired go, I may decide to just stay at my current position. I am very happy going to work everyday.