Clemson Center for Career and Professional Development

Co-op Ambassador:
Dial Deveney                

Major: Industrial Engineering
Graduation Date: December 2018
Co-op Company: AFL


Why did you decide to co-op?
I decided to co-op because I wanted to stand out and learn what it was like to work in the field as a real engineer. I also didn’t mind the aspect of staying at Clemson for an extra football season!


What types of projects did you work on?
I spent my first two rotations doing very hands-on, process engineering work where I would work on production improvements. Some of this was automation; some of this was design ergonomics. My last rotation was very quality control intense where I was working to improve workflow and throughput of the plant. It also was very heavy on data collection as I was providing the background data for a new scheduling system the company is implementing.


Describe your relationship with your mentor(s) and other colleagues:
My mentor and I had a great relationship. I worked a lot on my own, but whenever I needed something he was always there to help or give his opinion; and if he wasn’t available, there were plenty of people around for me to go to. The way I felt respected was one of the best things about my co-op experience. I didn’t feel like the intern going to get coffee; I was treated like a full time employee and felt like I was being taken seriously.


What was your most memorable moment on assignment?
My most memorable moment was when my boss let me join in on the new scheduling system project and I got to go to meetings with the other managers and executives in the plant. It was really cool to see that part of a company and be able to have a part in it.


What aspect of your co-op assignment do you feel will be the most beneficial after you graduate?
I think the most beneficial part of my co-op is the hands on experience of handling a project outside of schoolwork. It is really nice to know that you are able to make it in the ‘real world’ and that you are prepared to do well. Until you get the hands-on experience, all you have to go on is how you perform in school, so I think the co-op experience is invaluable.