INTERVIEW WITH LAURA KEIß
- PLEASE BRIEFLY INTRODUCE YOURSELF.
My name is Laura, I was born and raised in Stuttgart and am now studying PMT in the 6th semester.
- HOW DID YOU FIND YOUR INTERNSHIP?
I found my internship through the internet. Knowing that I wanted to do an internship in 3D printing, I specifically searched for internships in additive manufacturing. For personal reasons I wanted to stay close to Stuttgart, which helped me narrow down my search.
- HOW WAS THE INTERVIEW PROCESS AT THE COMPANY?
The interview process was straightforward. I applied with an application letter, my CV, and an overview of my grades. Then I got an invitation to the interview, which was conducted by an HR representative, the manager of the department, and the person that would be my direct supervisor.
- HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WORKING FOR THE COMPANY?
I really enjoyed the tasks I was entrusted with. It felt like my input was really valued by the team, and I was treated just like a regular employee. I’m also very grateful to the department for being patient and really helping me understand the company processes as well as the technical details.
- WHAT DID YOU LEARN?
My main takeaway from the internship was that 3D printing is a lot more developed and already in use than what I expected. Other skills include a knowledge about production planning for both traditional manufacturing and additive manufacturing, some experience in 3D scanning as well as in the multi jet fusion technology. An overview over additive manufacturing and post-processing processes (for plastics) and challenges was also given.
- DID THE COMPANY OFFER YOU CONSISTENT FEEDBACK THROUGHOUT YOUR INTERNSHIP?
As I was treated like a regular employee, I got consistent and immediate feedback about my work.
- WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT WORKING FOR THIS COMPANY?
My favourite part was seeing the 3D printed parts put to practical use in the packaging machines.
- HOW DID YOUR INTERNSHIP RELATE TO THE FIELD YOU ARE STUDYING IN?
3D printing is a growing market that partially relies on the same principles as “traditional” printing does. Therefore, a lot of theory learned in the study program could be applied to the tasks done in the internship.
- WHAT KIND OF TASKS DID YOU DO?
I did make/buy decisions for 3D printed parts based on the CAD models and technical drawings. For parts manufactured in house, I did the production planning and the operation of the 3D printer and some post-processing steps. For externally manufactured parts, I was responsible for keeping in contact with the suppliers and for all parts expediting and quality control was within my responsibility. Another task I was entrusted with was giving technical advice to the construction department as to the technical possibilities and feasibility of parts.