- Major: Mechanical Engineering
- Company: Steel Partners
- Graduation Year: May 2021
- E-mail: dshults@vols.utk.edu
Profile
My co-op was with Steel Partners - Diversified industrial products in a supply chain management and logistics role. My assignments were located outside of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina. During my first rotation, my role primarily focused on process improvement and waste reduction. My second rotation involved leading a team to implement a quality control system that 100% inspected finished products that were purchased by critical customers.
I decided to do a co-op for a change of pace. I was unsure what I wanted to do with my degree after graduation. I figured it would be better to take time off of school and gain experience while figuring out what type of job I would like to search for as graduation approached. I also enjoyed the idea of moving somewhere new for a year while living rent-free.
It was fulfilling to lead a project from infancy all the way to implementation. The positive results from the project were icing on the cake.
My co-op experience has helped me realize that it is okay not to know everything. It is very important to know who to ask when you don't know something, especially if it is industry/organization specific.
If I am not in class or studying you are likely to find me spending time with friends, cooking, wood and metal working, working out, or reading.
Pro-top: A co-op is a great way to gain experience, build a resume, make connections, and earn money.
