Electrical Engineer
CurrentAs my first full time job out of college, IKA has helped me develop professionally in many ways. As an Electrical Engineer in the process department at the company I wear many different hats. I program Rockwell Automation PLCs and HMIs for the various machines that we make. I primarily use Ladder Logic in Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk View ME. Occasionally, I also use Siemen's TIA Portal and Crimson 3.1 depending on the application. When programming the machines, I have to take a creative approach as every machine is made custom as in the software. Every customer wants their own specific functionality, from a fully customizable recipe system to automatic drainage system. Everyday is a new challenge.On the hardware side of things, I design and review AutoCAD Electrical schematics for the electrical panels that power and run our machines. This involves calculating the power and cooling requirements of all of the components in the panel to ensure that it functions properly. I am also currently overseeing our transition from using AutoCAD to EPlan.I also help source parts for the panels, which has become increasingly difficult due to ongoing supply chain issues. The team and I have had to work around this by working with vendors and being resourceful.IKA is a place where I continue to grow and hone my skills, not only as an electrical engineer but my social skills working with a team and with vendors.