Company: Detroit Diesel Corporation
Position: reliability engineer
Employed: 1.5 years
Where did you go to school? What program did you attend?
I went to the University of Windsor for the mechanical engineering co-op program.
What drew you to your current field?
My first career choice was engineering, but there are so many facets of engineering to choose from. I chose the automotive industry because it fascinated me and I wanted to be involved in designing and developing.
How did you find your current position?
I found Detroit Diesel Corporation's ad on jobpostings.ca and I submitted my resume. Pretty lucky this time!
Tell us a bit about your responsibilities at this position.
I am responsible for finding and reducing issues with engine components breaking in the field. I try to ensure the engines we release are better and better each day by improving the components and processes we use to produce them.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
When I see a reduction in the warranty rates or the money that we are spending on problems in the field, I feel like my job is making a difference.
What skills have you learned through your work experience?
I have learned many different problem solving methods and project management skills. They are essential in analyzing a failure or anticipating what could go wrong.
Is there one accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
We were plagued by returned turbochargers with no trouble to be found with them. It was a struggle to fix, when we couldn't find anything wrong. With a partner, I spent the better part of a year working on fixing the problem. It was a success and we will be saving the company money and the customers will be happier with the engines in their trucks.
What are your future career aspirations?
I would like to manage a team in the future to design and develop new engine models.
What advice do you have for students looking to land their first job?
Internships, apprenticeships, and co-op opportunities are the best way to network and get some experience in the real world. Contact companies and encourage them to start a new internship program. jp
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