1st Co-Op Semester
Erik
Experience Information
Employer: Autocam (Automotive)
Job Title: Engineering Co-Op
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Received Credit: Yes
Paid: Yes
Abroad: No
Description of the Organization
Autocam's Automotive division is a precision parts manufacturer. Autocam produces parts for over 20 different major customers, including big names such as GM, Cummins, Bosch, and Hitachi. Autocam specializes in fuel system components, as well as steering systems, electric motors, braking systems, and other vehicle related parts. The company has been owned by John C. Kennedy since 1988, and was just recently sold to NN Inc., although it will continue on as its own brand name within a major division of NN.
Description of the Tasks/Projects Completed
Many of the tasks and project that I worked on involved becoming familiar with the machines and manufacturing processes that are used to maintain part quality. This included working with machine operators, checking part dimensions and aiding in capability studies, and working on preventative maintenance sheets. I also worked on two different projects that helped reduce the number of parts damaged by the wash machines (used to remove chips, oil and other debris from parts).
Skills/Knowledge Gained Through The Experience
I gained a lot of knowledge about how the manufacturing process works, from blanking (creating the basic parts), to other feature operations (adding necessary holes or other features), to deburring (removing sharp metal buildup), and to wash, as well as all the different processes used to maintain quality in between.
Favorite Part of the Experience
I most enjoyed the projects related to reducing damaged parts at wash. These projects provided the greatest feeling of accomplishment of all the different tasks that I had, largely because they had a direct positive effect on the number of parts scrapped and therefore on money wasted by the company.
How the Experience Influenced Future Career Goals
Through this experience I have learned the complexity of the manufacturing process and all the many details and issues that can arise. I have seen how this could be a challenging industry to enter (in a good way). I have also learned first hand that Autocam is a good place to work, with many enjoyable people and good management. I look forward to future Co-op semesters there.