Mechanical Engineering Co-Op Story: Mercedes-Benz U.S. International
Ryan Fuerst
Mechanical Engineering
What company or organization did you co-op with and where are they located?
Mercedes-Benz U.S. International
How did you identify and apply for your co-op? Are there any specific resources you used to find the opportunity (i.e. Handshake, career fairs, other recruitment events)?
I used the Auburn career fair and co-op program to apply for this position on handshake!
What was the application process like?
The application process was smooth, setting up an interview time on handshake. It was also unique to every individual, as we were provided a case study prior to the interview and were required to describe our solution to display our problem-solving skills.
Tell us about your co-op experience. What types of tasks and projects did you engage in? Was there a particular project or part of the experience you learned the most from?
I was responsible for designing, manufacturing, and implementing an assist device cart for the electric EQS Maybach, allowing team members to safely and effectively install the rear center console of the $200,000+ car. In addition, I troubleshooted and improved any equipment/devices used on the assembly line to keep the process running smoothly. These projects taught me that it is important to build relationships and talk to the people who will actually be using the tools so that I can make design changes that will be most helpful to them.
In what ways did your co-op experience help you prepare for your next destination after Auburn?
This experience helped me realize that I want to work in the automotive industry after graduation! I went into work every day with a smile on my face, looking forward to the next project I would be involved on. Being surrounded by what I am passionate about kept me driven to do the best work I can and learn something new every day!
In what ways did your coursework or other experiences at Auburn prepare you for your co-op work experience? Are there specific topics or skills you learned from classes that you put into practice on the job?
The makerspace has taught me a tremendous amount of hands-on skills that I was able to use on many of the tools/devices I designed. I also applied my 3D design skills I learned from Auburn on a daily basis. I found that my computer-aided engineering class applied the most to my co-op because we designed, built, and tested our own wind-powered car!
Do you have any advice for other students seeking an experience like yours?
Be confident and be yourself! Show employers how passionate you are about their product and what excites you most about the chance to possibly work for them! Get started early and never give up!