VPI Placement Engineer Review

I assess how suitable components are for our Large engines from a manufacturing and assembly perspective. I assess the assembly process of these components as well as any clashes or design flaws with other components which work together with the engine.
My role includes contributing critical manufacturing input in to design reviews and carry out fit checks, I also lead prototype engine builds down the assembly line. For the technicians assembling engines, VPI are the go-to people for any queries to do with assembling any prototype or new component. It is therefore very important that our department knows all there is to do with these new engines and components.
As well as this my role includes producing documentation for assembly. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the component is required, I create the process documentation and code those documents to the relevant assembly stage.

My time at Cummins, has been full of a wide range of experiences. My role allowed me to gain valuable insight in many aspects required to manufacture, introduce, and integrate new components and products to an engine assembly line. I have been able to work on my critical thinking and consider many more factors, more than what a typical design engineer would consider. I particularly enjoyed the planning aspect, design review and fit checks. One thing I am very grateful for, was landing this role. I can think of the bigger picture and consider more aspects of a product, from the different phases of development to how it would integrate into an assembly line. I also created assembly documents, detailing how to assemble new and unfamiliar components whilst considering build order and what other components are fitted around this component.
The work culture is very special at Cummins, having worked in different environments and call centres. My expectations for working were very different. The biggest difference I noticed was how in control I was of my projects and tasks, allowing myself to develop and work on my organisational skills as well as prioritisation skills. Being able to self-manage and work autonomously with little supervision during the Covid-19 pandemic is a skill that is valued highly I enjoy being in control of my own work and I love a challenge. This placement has only increased my love for engineering and has given me a warm welcome to the world of engineering.

Developed strong communication skills aswell as leadership when participating in design reviews and leading engine builds down an assembly line.
Learnt how to self manage and work autonomously with little supervision during the Covid 19 pandemic

The team over at Cummins are always happy to help, as a placement student, you are paired with a technician who is able to always answer your questions and guide you. whether it be down an assembly line or whilst working on various process documents or design reviews

The work culture is very special at Cummins, having worked in different environments and call centres. My expectations for working were very different. The biggest difference I noticed was how in control I was of my projects and tasks, allowing myself to develop and work on my organisational skills as well as prioritisation skills. Being able to self-manage and work autonomously with little supervision during the Covid-19 pandemic is a skill that is valued highly I enjoy being in control of my own work and I love a challenge. This placement has only increased my love for engineering and has given me a warm welcome to the world of engineering.

Absolutely loved it! Genuinely would not have wished for a different role. The experiences I gained are very unique and as far as an engineering placement goes. Not many offer this large a variety of experiences

Yes