Name:  Matthew Hart

Hometown:  Carol Stream, Illinois

Major and Graduation Date:  Industrial Technology Option: Manufacturing with a minor in Business, Fall 2019

Favorite ISU class:  TSM 240: Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing and Metals Processing.  I enjoyed studying several types of manufacturing processes and being able to operate metal lathe machines in the lab.  During the semester, our class had the opportunity to attend the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago which is a trade show showing off all the latest technology in the manufacturing industry.  This showed me the endless possibilities of what the industry offers and how fast changing it is.

Job Title & Employer:  Layout Design Engineer at TRUMPF.  TRUMPF provides high-tech manufacturing solutions for different industries involving machine tools, laser technology, electronics, and smart factory integration.

Major Job/Position Responsibilities:  As a Layout Design Engineer for TRUMPF, my position involves creating special layouts of our machines using SolidWorks.  I create 3D representations of our machines based on what the customer purchased.  This way the customer can visualize their machine and can be shown inside a representation of their building.  Each layout receives 2D drawings that include machine dimensions, requirements, and a list of critical materials needed to manufacture the machine.  Our team works closely with our project managers, sales, machine production, and the customer to make sure the entire process goes according to plan.

What do you like most about your job/position?  I enjoy that each project is unique in some way due to different requirements.  Certain projects can be more challenging than others due to specific customer requirements, but at the same time, it makes me think creatively.  Our customers manufacture interesting products, and it is intriguing to learn how they will utilize our equipment.  Also, TRUMPF’s machine portfolio is extensive and remarkably high-tech, so every week I am learning something new to help me understand how our machines operate.

What advice would you give to current students pursuing a career in Agriculture and Life Sciences?  I recommend having an internship or two in industries that you are most interested in.  By the time you graduate, you have an idea of where you want to start your career.  Networking on LinkedIn, attending career fairs, and researching companies will help figure out what type of job and company you want to work for.