New Product Introduction Review

On a daily basis I would carry out a range of tasks, from line validations to check that products were programmed and assembled correctly, to APQP work collecting and submitting quality engineering work to key customers. I would also carry out administrative tasks on a weekly basis such as audits and inventory checks. Across all of my tasks, a good understanding of engineering drawings has been needed in creating work requests for different teams to gather information that would then be collated and submitted as part of the APQP process

Yes - as a member of the VPI (value package introduction) team in the quality department I fulfilled the role of a normal team member, not just an extra pair of hands. I was given a lot of responsibility in signing off turbochargers, analysing datasets and collating information for quality submissions to key customers. If I made mistakes, they had significant implications as incorrect turbos could be sent to customers or inaccurate results could be used in capability studies

I have been able to develop my proficiency in interrogating engineering drawings, understanding assembly techniques and analysis of large datasets.
I have also been able to develop my soft skills, such as communication, working and cooperating across the scope of the plant. Being able to request for work and organise other teams. My problem solving and applying initiative skills have also been tested regularly when reacting and solving assembly or auditing issues as and when they developed

I was given sufficient amount of support, especially early on in my placement. I was able to shadow other team members as I got settled into the processes used within the team. I received training when new frameworks were introduced or I was given new responsibility in completing tasks. However I was also given freedom to learn things individually, having to figure out things for myself as training wasn't always available immediately

I enjoyed the atmosphere within the team generally. The wider team would communicate well and help each other out if any members were struggling. However at one point in my placement there were significant redundancies within the quality department, this was difficult to experience.

I enjoyed my placement, it gave me a greater insight into the world of work and a much greater understanding of how my academic skills can be transferred into industry. It also allowed me to experience what working in the real world was like, and how to work effectively and communicate with a range of different people. It has improved my confidence in being out of my comfort zone and adapting to changing situations

Yes