My Professional Experiences
I've been fortunate to gain experiences in a wide range of industries. I worked my way up, in a sense, starting in a lab, hopping labs from there with more direction, and then landing an involved role in a meaningful startup. From there, I wanted to explore product design and R&D on a larger scale, so I migrated to Walmart, where I worked on the largest supply chain in the world. More details of each professional opportunity can be found below!
During the summer of my freshman year, I decided to explore my interest in sustainability by working in an environmental lab. I gained valuable experience collecting data in a research environment by running my own experiment measuring the diffusion of toxic compounds into the atmosphere from ink cartridges. Using this data, I created differential models to draw conclusions and got experience with multiple analysis software(s). I also learned to repair and operate several mechanical devices around the lab, adding to my hands-on experience operating tools and equipment.
My experience in the Robotics Institute was invaluable, especially after I established my interest in designing for the human condition. I spent the summer working with stroke survivors to research rehabilitation strategies. Firstly, I ran existing treadmill electroshock experiments, exposing me to the world of interacting with clients and operating high-stakes technology. I also got the opportunity to create virtual models using data, as well as to design an original experiment for the lab. The experimental design task allowed me to create a procedure, set up a circuit, design and 3D-print custom ergonomic parts, and program the entire system to function. I learned a lot about biomechanics, the brain and the body, and mechanical/experimental design.
My time at Trio, a 3D-printing start-up, immensely developed my mechanical instincts, simply by prompting me to partake in hours and hours of hands-on assembly. Trio has some incredible technology: they are the only ones capable of printing metal parts with such precision. During my time there, I got exposure to hundreds of electronic modules, mechanical fixtures, adhesive methods, tubing and fluid flow devices, and stabilizing mechanisms. I spent time developing the implicit knowledge that can only be acquired through making mistakes and painstakingly fixing them, and upon leaving, I felt much more equipped to fabricate anything and everything. In addition to the manual experience, I also participated in team meetings, gave design recommendations, and worked cross-functionally.
Walmart Innovation Lab
I most recently got the privilege of working with some incredibly talented engineers in Arkansas at Walmart on novel supply chain robotic systems. I created extensive recommendations regarding robotic integration across diverse environments, learning to weigh tradeoffs and work cross-functionally within a very fast-paced and open-ended environment. I also partook in CAD mechanism design for robotic systems that is awaiting future fabrication.
