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Zachary Koller wearing a respiratory mask and other personal protective equipment while working in a controlled environment within an enclosed piece of machinery.

Student Spotlight: Zachary Koller

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MABE senior Zachary Koller completed a co-op work assignment with Beehive Industries during the summer of 2023. Koller learned and applied industry relevant skills including project management, logistics, and production methodology.

My name is Zachary Koller. I am an undergraduate senior in mechanical engineering, and this summer I had the opportunity to work for Beehive Industries, an additive manufacturing company, in their Knoxville facility.

My position consisted of working on projects spanning across multiple departments involving engineering and the production of additively manufactured parts for various industries. I worked on projects that assisted the production of parts and improved process infrastructure. I collaborated closely with colleagues in departments including engineering, project management, quality, machining, additive manufacturing technicians, logistics, and postprocessing. I was also able to gain hands-on experience with LPBF printers and the various tasks required to turn metal powders into fully functioning parts.

As someone who has never worked in manufacturing before, there was lots to learn to understand standard processes of production. On top of that, I had to grasp the nuances and specialized procedures that come with additive manufacturing metal components. My colleagues were consistently available for me to ask them any questions I had while I was taught the ins and outs of their manufacturing systems. One of the many key lessons I learned during my time with Beehive Industries was to always ask questions when given the opportunity, as it greatly increased my understanding and efficiency working towards completing my projects.

I highly recommend this company to anyone interested in the growing industry of additive manufacturing. Stop in the Engineering Professional Practice Office and talk with an ambassador or coordinator to help you with your future co-op/internship needs!

Adam Schoolfield stands in front of the JTEKT headquarters during his coop work experience.

Student Spotlight: Adam Schoolfield

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Adam Schoolfield, a senior in mechanical engineering, gained valuable work experience during his co-op with JTEKT Vonore. In his role as a Manufacturing Engineer, Schoolfield actively participated in process improvement and product development, skills that he can apply to his future career.

My name is Adam Schoolfield. I am a senior in mechanical engineering. During my time at JTEKT Vonore, I worked as a Manufacturing Engineer for the assembly processes in the plant. My job was to design and build improvements for steering rack assembly machines on the pre-existing BMW and Honda lines. It was my responsibility to work with senior manufacturing engineers on creating improvements that reduced machine down time or decreased manufacturing cycle time. Many of my designs were intended to reduce the amount of time a steering rack would remain at one assembly station. I also made a few designs intended to improve traceability of assembly components, guaranteeing that they were correctly assembled and that their quality was within standards.

One of the greatest challenges I faced while working at JTEKT was learning new terminology, acronyms, and each individual process on the assembly line. I made sure that I asked questions when I did not know what specific terminology or acronyms meant, and I spent a great deal of time close to the assembly line to understand each process and how it worked. Once I understood all the company specific terms and equipment, I found myself being able to communicate problems and solutions to my coworkers much more effectively. The key lesson I learned was that good communication and asking questions when uncertainty arises is vital to keeping operations running smoothly and coordinating with others.

The most valuable benefit I received by working with JTEKT was real world experience. Many of the things I learned from this assignment will never be taught to me in school. I learned about industry vendors and standard purchasing sites, how to design machines to be safe and easy to perform maintenance on, how to create parts that can be easily manufactured, how to ensure the quality of the product through sensors and standard work procedures, and many more similar experiences that have greatly improved my ability as an engineer.

Jake Orr, wearing an olive green shirt and black and white hat, inspects a large drone aircraft during his coop experience at Aim Lock, Inc.

Student Spotlight: Jake Orr

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Jake Orr, a rising sophomore at the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Biomolecular Engineering, worked with unmanned aircraft that have the potential to improve military safety during his coop experience as a member of the team at Aim Lock, Inc. in Littleton, Colorado.

My name is Jake Orr. I am a rising sophomore this fall 2023 and a mechanical engineering major at the Tickle College of Engineering. I accepted an internship assignment working with Aim Lock Inc. a company dedicated “to help America lead the global fight of good over evil, to protect the innocent, and bring our soldiers home safely.” Aim Lock is a military contractor focused on unmanned group-based vehicles with a specialization in automated threat detection and targeting analysis systems. The assignment I accepted is based in Littleton, Colorado.

By spearheading the industry in small, unmanned aircraft with remote weapon systems, Aim Lock can protect our soldiers on the battlefields across the globe.

This experience has been one the most rewarding undertakings of my early college career and I’m excited to make many more memories and experiences along the way at UT Knoxville!

Stop by the Engineering Professional Practice office to meet with an advisor. Let them help you plan your future with a rewarding coop or internship assignment.

Additional Photos

Two men dressed in dark colored clothes work on a large drone aircraft which is hanging from an A frame structure for support in an outdoor environment with green grass and blue skies.

A group of four men work on a large unmanned aircraft. Two of the men are holding the drone up with both hands. The third man, in an olive green shirt, conducts potential repairs or diagnostics, while the fourth person observes from the side.

Donovan Stockdale stands on the warehouse floor wearing a safety vest during his internship with Walmart.

Student Spotlight: Donovan Stockdale

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Senior Mechanical Engineering student Donovan Stockdale spent time working with Walmart in New Jersey during his internship. Stockdale credits Engineering Professional Practice for his experience.

During my time at Walmart, I got to experience many different aspects of the company that I never thought that I would get to take part in. I was based out of the Automation Engineering Department as an Automation engineering intern. My job focused mainly on the end-to-end implementation of a proof of stake project for the company. This project took place in New Jersey, which made it quite difficult to stay on top of since I was based out of Indianapolis, Indiana. Through many Zoom calls and numerous trips to New Jersey, I was able to see my project through and was able to get it running before my internship presentation at the end of the term! (For those that are curious, my project is the conveyor belt that I’m standing in front of in the picture that you’re seeing.)

Throughout this process, I was able to learn about lots of different aspects of project management that I would have never had a chance to learn about otherwise. Some of those aspects included interdisciplinary team coordination through remote means, project tracking of large projects, and even the formal process of how projects like this start and finish over time. It was cool getting to see that and experience it first-hand.

I also had a chance to learn about how these fulfillment centers come to life and that process was an immense undertaking. That was especially apparent when I was able to sit in on design meetings that my manager held with the vendors that he was working with. The attention to detail needed to fully think through these places is insane and it was cool being able to see that in action.

Overall, this was a fantastic experience that I would not have been able to have without the help of the Engineering Professional Practice Office and specifically Suzanne Sawicki. I also wanted to thank my manager, Ethan Kincaid, for giving me a shot to work with him and the team at Walmart. He was essential in the success of my project, and I am eternally grateful to have received this opportunity from him. I also wanted to thank everyone else along the way, it was truly a great experience that I couldn’t have had without your help. So, to everyone involved, thank you!

Russell McCoig standing in front of a construction project during his co-op

Student Spotlight: Russell McCoig

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Civil and environmental engineering student Russell McCoig co-oped in Louisville, Kentucky from January-December 2022 with EMJ Construction.

“My co-op experience allowed me to see the construction process in the field and how designs don’t always work out perfectly, but that’s okay. Going into this experience, I had just transferred from the electrical engineering program and wanted to experience civil life firsthand to aid me in my design choices by seeing how they could affect construction. I worked on a job site in Louisville, Kentucky for the entirety of my co-op supervising the construction of a senior living facility that covered a total of over 200,000 square feet,” said McCoig. “During this time, I worked on several high-value tasks including fire protection, RFIs, punch list, and a granite log that was at the request of the architect and owner. These tasks taught me a lot about how to work with people of all backgrounds and how to be the one who was able to talk with these individuals to ensure a smooth process in all aspects whether it be an OAC or an inspection. Most importantly, this experience taught me that the most important part of engineering is being adaptable and understanding that something can always be improved upon.”

When asked what advice he had for other Engineering students who participate in co-op and internship programs, McCoig said, “Everyone should combine their educational time here with at least one work assignment. These provide nothing but benefits and thanks to the number of partnerships that the university has, everyone can find an opportunity that’s the best fit for them. Even if you don’t believe that a co-op is for you, there are multiple opportunities in internships and local part-time assignments. Maybe you want to do a year straight through like I did and travel to explore new places? There is not only one way to do it and fortunately, the number of opportunities available to us is seemingly endless.”

While summarizing his thoughts on the experiences provided by participating in a program through Engineering Professional Practice, he said, “None of this would have been possible without the hard work of the Engineering Professional Practice staff. I have attended three expos and have left with an offer to expand my education through a work assignment at every expo. EPP puts so much work and dedication into helping us as future engineers. I implore you to go by, today, and talk to the lovely staff there and start working on furthering your career and knowledge as an engineer today!”

Riya Patel standing in front of John Sevier Combined Cycle Plant

Student Spotlight: Riya Patel

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Electrical Engineering major Riya Patel provides advice and tips for students who are seeking internships and co-ops.  Riya also shares stories from her journey through internships and co-ops with multiple companies.

Throughout my career, I had the opportunity to participate in multiple internships. I completed 2 summer terms with Eastman. There were several important projects that I worked on during this time.

After completing my first term of internship at Eastman in the summer of 2021, I accepted an offer at TVA in the fall of 2021 as a power operations intern. There were several benefits that I enjoyed while working at TVA. Currently, I will be completing my 4th term at TVA. It had been a pleasure working with the group. Going to plant visits for work really excites me since I’ve been expanding my knowledge and learning new concepts every single day. Working as an intern/coop while studying in school helps you to build not only your engineering skills but also your communications, documentation, management/leadership skills. Studying the concepts in school and then implementing those concepts in the real-life application helps you gain a lot of practical experience. These opportunities have helped add to the success of my early engineering career.

This summer I have accepted an internship to work in a control group at Burns and McDonnell in Atlanta. I cannot wait to start this new and different experience. I do believe that the more internship experience you achieve, the easier it is to find your specific work interests.  Internships and co-ops not only help you boost your skills but also motivates you to stand out during your real-world challenges. I encourage everyone to look for any available internship opportunities because it is important to learn how to convert skills taught in the classroom into practical applications. There are many career opportunities and job fairs organized by UTK such as the Engineering Expo, VolTrek, and other networking events. I got my very first internship opportunity at an Engineering Expo. Also, a fun part of internships is relocation, since this will help you explore more cities and help figure out where you want to live when you accept a full-time position.

My mentors have done a great job making my engineering career successful. I would like to thank my managers/supervisor and mentors for their guidance and support. I also would like to thank the office of Engineering Professional Practice for organizing all the job fairs and networking events which help students with their internship/co-op opportunities and careers.

Blake Zegiestowsky posing in front of a black Mercedes Benz SUV

Student Spotlight: Blake Zegiestowsky

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Mechanical engineering major Blake Zegiestowsky completed a co-op with Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc. in Vance, Alabama during the spring and summer semesters of 2022 and now, in the spring and summer semesters of 2023.

Going into this Co-op, I had no idea what an engineer in the automotive industry did. I learned so much more than I expected. Now, I understand all the engineering roles in the automotive industry and which of them I like and dislike. I had the opportunity to work in three different departments: quality, R&D for electronics, and my favorite, R&D for powertrain & chassis components. My communication skills improved exponentially, since I did everything from explaining processes to production workers to presenting results and findings to upper-level management. Since Mercedes-Benz is a German company, I learned how to speak German since around half of my co-workers were ex-pats from Germany. I also worked with engineers from Mexico, China, India, South Africa, Columbia, France, and South Korea, so I am accustomed to diversity.

I worked on some awesome projects that I am very proud of. I designed a part from scratch used on four car lines in the United States, Germany, and China. I had no previous experience with 3D modeling, so I had to teach myself as I went. I 3D printed 11 prototypes and tested them on over 350 cars. Once I landed on an optimal design, I sent samples to our Mercedes-Benz plants in Germany and China to try, and they were very impressed. I researched which material and manufacturing process would be best for mass-producing this part. I decided to get the part injection molded in Nylon 12. I then had to alter my design to make it compatible with injection molding. I reached out to multiple suppliers to compare costs and lead times. Finally, I worked with logistics to implement this part in the United States, Germany, and China. I learned everything about the design process from start to finish with this project.

Initially, I was skeptical about doing a Co-op because I did not want to take any semesters off and delay my graduation. Now looking back, it is the best decision I have ever made. I realized there is so much more to engineering than the classes you take in school. I now have a completely different outlook on my career. I know exactly what I want to do, and I am ready to hit the ground running!

Students speaking with employers at the engineering expo 2022

Tickle College of Engineering Spring Expo Returns to Student Union March 1

  Events, Featured News ,  

March drawing closer means three things at UT each year: Winter is winding down, basketball is about to hit tournament season, and the spring Engineering Expo will soon draw hundreds of hopeful future co-op and intern students from the Tickle College of Engineering for two days of getting to know potential employers.

“The Engineering Expo is incredibly important to our office and, as importantly, to the students in our college,” said Tonya Shortt, interim director of the Office of Engineering Professional Practice which hosts the event each spring and fall. “Gaining that ‘in-the-field’ experience before graduation is something the college feels is important for our students, as it helps set them up for future success once they have graduated.”

Held at the Student Union on March 1st from 1-4:30, the first day of the event will feature up to 150 companies, with every major being represented by several potential employers.

Students will spend that day visiting booths from sponsors that draw their interest. Then, on March 2nd, students and sponsors that had mutual interest after the first day have a 30-minute interview to see if a connection can be made that leads to an offer. On average across all majors, students earn $3,200 per month while with their company or organization.

Those experiences can come when students alternate semesters between school and work, although some students opt to seek their opportunities during the summer break. More than 70 percent of eligible students take part annually.

Participating companies with ties to the area include American Accessories International, Denso, Volkswagen, KUB, Nucleon Power, Malibu Boats, Pilot Flying J., MAHLE, CGI, and Clayton Homes. National and international companies including Honda, BMW, Kia, Idaho National Laboratory, Prime Controls, Safire Technology Group, Smith + Nephew, and Texas Instruments are also taking part.

The Office of Engineering Professional Practice was founded in 1926 to help engineering students add experience to their education and prepare for the transition from student to employee. The office maintains relationships with more than 500 businesses and interacts with more than 1,500 undergraduate and graduate students each year, helping them achieve more than 700 annual placements with participating companies.

Student Spotlight: Taylor Rogers

  Student Stories , ,  
Taylor Rogers poses in front of a wall of basball cards.

Taylor Rogers

Taylor Rogers, senior in computer science, interned in summer 2021 with Eastman Chemical and for summer 2022 interned with Major League Baseball in New York City.

This assignment has been an incredible opportunity to expand industry-specific knowledge, foster connections with a variety of people, and develop as a young professional.

As a Baseball Operations intern, I have particularly enjoyed gaining insight into various aspects of MLB.

I encourage you to visit the Engineering Professional Practice and take advantage of resources it offers. Whether you would like help with your resume, interview tips, or advice in navigating a career, the Engineering Professional Practice staff is there to assist.

After this role, I will have worked for two unique companies. Not only are the companies in different industries, but the groups in which I interned are also very different. One of my takeaways from my contrasting experiences is that although certain skills may seem job-specific, many are transferable. This point motivates me to lean into each task, conversation, or event I have as it presents an opportunity to grow and prepare for the future.

Carson Foy wears a bright yellow high-visibility vest as he stands in front a white Toyota that is raised on a rack in a garage.

Student Spotlight: Carson Foy

  Student Stories ,  

Mechanical engineering major Carson Foy worked in the Quality Department at JTEKT in Vonore, Tennessee, a team is responsible for ensuring that every electric power-steering gear being shipped to customers is within specifications and up to quality standards.

As a co-op, I had the opportunity to gain valuable, hands-on experience in the automotive industry. I worked alongside many engineers and technicians in various departments around the plant. Though every day was different, most of the projects that I was involved in were ultimately to help improve the quality and efficiency of the production lines, or to help fix pressing issues facing the plant.

One daily responsibility I had was to perform steering gear tear-downs and performance testing for problem analysis from our production lines, customer line returns, or warranty returns. The type of analysis and testing done to a gear depended on the problem, and I was able to learn how to use various specialized equipment and machines, MCU diagnostic softwares, and metrology tools to analyze the root cause of an issue.

I also had the opportunity to improve my modeling skills with Solidworks to design and 3D print prototypes for various tools, pokayoke systems, and master fixturing, some of which were machined and implemented onto the production line.

Through this co-op experience, I was able to learn a ton about manufacturing, quality, and working with many people of different backgrounds. It was extremely rewarding to apply the theoretical knowledge I am learning in my classes to real world problems in an industry setting, and it made me excited about any future opportunities I may get in the industry.

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