I secured my internship at Sii by hearing about an opportunity through networking, followed by a formal application and admission process. I chose the Engineering Competency Center in Gdańsk because it closely matched the skills and knowledge I had acquired during my studies.
This department focuses on areas of engineering that I was already familiar with, such as electrical design, CAD modeling, and automation systems, which made me confident that I could contribute effectively and gain valuable industry experience.
The article will tell you how my internship went, what I learned, and whether it was worth it. I invite you to read it!
Onboarding
The onboarding process was well-organized and comprehensive, and it was coordinated smoothly by both HR and my line manager. I received all the necessary information about the company’s structure, safety protocols, and everyday working processes.
Adjusting to the company’s internal platforms, such as Microsoft Teams, was relatively easy since I had used these tools during my studies.
Project work
However, I realized the real learning started once I began working within the department. Over the course of my six-week internship, I became gradually more accustomed to the department’s practices.
One key factor that helped me settle in was the support of senior engineers, who were always willing to answer questions and offer guidance whenever needed.
My project
My primary task during the internship was an individual project to design a portable training station for PLC modules. This project required me to combine the basics of electrical design, CAD modelling, and material selection while simultaneously ensuring strict adherence to safety and procedural regulations.
One of the most challenging aspects of this experience was the uncertainty surrounding the quality of my work. Since this was one of my first independent engineering projects, I initially felt unsure about whether my designs met professional standards. However, the senior engineers in the department were always available for consultations, and I frequently sought their feedback. Their insights helped me refine my work, ensuring that it aligned with the company’s requirements and industry norms.
Satisfaction
The internship gave me immense satisfaction. The most rewarding part of the project was seeing the gradual progress and consequently realizing that I had created a nearly complete model of a functional product.
By the end of the internship, I had produced:
- a detailed CAD model of the assembly,
- ePlan diagrams for electrical connections,
- and Bill of Materials.
Additionally, after finishing the project, I had an opportunity to participate in a “Programming ABB industrial robots” robotics training, where I learned about:
- encoding 3D rotations,
- manual controlling of multi-axis robotic arms,
- and essential safety procedures regarding their implementation.
Summary
In conclusion, my key takeaway from this internship is gaining firsthand experience working in a professional, high-quality industrial environment. I learned to formally present my work, communicate effectively with colleagues, and adapt to changing project requirements. These skills are deemed necessary in any engineering role, making the internship a strong foundation for my future career.
Overall, I believe my time at Sii was incredibly valuable, allowing me to develop personally and professionally.
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If you are interested in career paths in IT, be sure to also take a look at other articles by our specialists 🙂
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