Co-op Ambassador:
Will Richgels
Major: Industrial Engineering (Spanish minor)
Graduation Date: December 2018
Co-op Company: Komatsu America Corp. (Newberry, SC)
Why did you decide to co-op?
I wanted real engineering experience, and the Co-op program seemed like the best way to achieve that (even more than an internship). I was also attracted to the fact that it would allow me to stay at Clemson a little longer.
What types of projects did you work on?
I worked on projects to reduce wasted time and costs, increase efficiency and safety, and find new opportunities for improvement and quality. I got to change and/or introduce additions to the assembly processes, tooling, and layout of the facility. I was also made the engineer in charge of the forklift assembly line for all time studies, engineering changes, and logistics.
Describe your relationship with your mentor(s) and other colleagues:
My relationships with my mentors and colleagues were, and still are, very good. They originally started as mostly professional, but eventually became very friendly. I often went golfing with them, and still keep in touch with a lot of them.
What was your most memorable moment on assignment?
My most memorable moments came when I was part of a team for a project that required a presentation. I really enjoyed sitting down and getting to know my team more as we put together our story and got to know each other. Each of the presentations I worked on also did well enough at our national headquarters in Chicago that they moved on to be presented at the international level in Japan!
What aspect of your co-op assignment do you feel will be the most beneficial after you graduate?
I gained not only raw engineering experience, but also learned how to properly apply myself and my skills to different people and different locations in my industry. It also helped give me a clear and defined idea of what I want in a job after graduation.
What advice do you have for other students looking to complete the co-op program?
If you’re not in the Co-op program already, join it! If you’re already a part of it, stick with it! Every company I interview with has asked me about my Co-op experience and they love what I have to share about it. There are many benefits to doing a Co-op (including an extra football season)!
