- Major: Industrial and Systems Engineering
- Company: Electrolux, Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic, Northrop Grumman
- E-mail: lreinhar@vols.utk.edu
Profile
Hello! I’m so happy you’re here!
I’m a senior studying industrial and systems engineering from Hendersonville, TN, with aspirations in defense or aerospace manufacturing. I remember being a first-year engineering student, unsure about my prospects for internships due to my lack of experience. However, utilizing the EPP resources was a turning point and transformed my outlook allowing me to secure an internship as a first-year engineering student!
My first internship was at Electrolux, a home appliance manufacturer. As a manufacturing engineering intern, I led a major rework project, managed timelines, collaborated with maintenance and operations teams, and liaised with an external supplier. I collected and analyzed data to create control charts monitoring quality. I also designed a new flow rack for the cooktop production line to improve material flow while maintaining operator safety and ergonomics.
In the summer of 2023, I interned at the Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic within the On Demand Manufacturing Lab. I gained hands-on experience in additive, subtractive, and advanced manufacturing. I reverse-engineered and manufactured prototype parts to replace obsolete naval ship radio components. I implemented 5S to inventory for additive supplies to streamline lab processes and reduce costs and inventory search time.
During the summer of 2024, I had the opportunity to intern as a manufacturing engineering intern with Northrop Grumman in their Mission Systems Sector.
Outside of engineering, I enjoy staying active by working out or playing sports such as basketball, volleyball, or pickleball. I also stay creative through painting, sewing, or thrifting.
My advice:
- Recognize and celebrate your accomplishments, such as class projects or leadership roles—they bolster your resume and open doors to amazing opportunities.
- Embrace co-op opportunities, even if it means graduating a bit later—the work and life experiences you gain will be invaluable and far outweigh any delay in graduating.
- Stay open-minded about the opportunities that come your way; you never know where they might lead!
Best of luck, and please visit office hours—I’d love to help!
