Electrical Engineering Co-op (Systems, RF, and Technology Development)
January 2019 - August 2021 • Tallassee, AL
What I liked
The rotation system that Neptune implemented for electrical engineering co-ops is a great resource. It really allows you to figure out what parts of electrical engineering you enjoy. I discovered that I like working with RF systems, which I had never done before. I think this shows Neptune's prioritization of teaching co-ops over getting as much productivity as possible.
I also think that Neptune is a good example of a very effective engineering team. There are a lot of established engineers who know the products inside and out, and you get to learn and build from an existing workflow. They are also not afraid to spend money on effective engineering support. Tools and materials are high quality and organized, and the E-lab and machine shop are great resources.
What I wish was different
I think some people will find the rotation system to remove some ownership of projects, as anything you don't finish during the semester will be passed on to a new co-op. However, there's a lot of opportunity for co-ops on different teams to work together, and I think the broad experiences you get from the rotation system outweigh the downsides of switching teams every semester.
Advice
Spend time talking to different people about different projects, and tell people about what interests you. There are a lot of things you can learn outside of the projects you're working on, and there's a lot of flexibility to be put on the projects that you think are most interesting.
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Systems Co-Op
May 2019 • Tallassee, AL
What I liked
I loved the diversity of work I've gotten to do this semester and the fact that my work really mattered to the company. They put a lot of trust in their co-ops and pay them accordingly. Everyone was very nice and the atmosphere is very relaxed. They are an old company that behaves like a startup
What I wish was different
I wish I was placed in the Engineering department, because Systems isn't quite as technical work as I was hoping for. It also takes a lot of pushing for upper management to approve going forward on some more innovative solutions to things, but they do come around.
Advice
The more you branch out and talk to people outside of your department, the better experience you'll have and the better you'll come to understand its principles and technologies. Not to mention those connections can help you line up jobs later, or get you to work on projects that are actually of interest to you!
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Mechanical Engineering Co-op
May - August 2018 • Tallassee, AL
What I liked
Neptune had a wide variety of opportunities to learn all sorts of new and fun technologies as well as refine my soft skills. I worked on projects that incorporated 3D modeling, computer programming, running high profile tests, machining, and active problem solving. In addition to that, the people I got to work with were phenomenal and always encouraging to me. Overall I would give my experience at Neptune a 5/5!
What I wish was different
Nothing.
Advice
This was a great chance to learn and practice skills that you can't gain in the classroom. Neptune has something for everyone and I highly recommend them!