The University of Toledo
01/21/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/21/2025 02:11
Senior’s NASA Co-op Experience as Rocket Engineer is Transformative
Senior's NASA Co-op Experience as Rocket Engineer is Transformative
Reed Schumacher, a dual major in electrical engineering and computer science engineering at The University of Toledo, recently completed a transformative co-op as a pathways intern at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
His time at one of the world's most iconic aerospace facilities proved to be a career-defining experience for the senior from Columbus Grove, Ohio.
Reed Schumacher, a dual major in electrical engineering and computer science engineering, recently completed a co-op as a pathways intern at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
During his co-op, Reed developed an innovative MATLAB and Simulink tool to automate the creation of electrical schematics. His tool significantly streamlined a time-intensive process for the team, replacing the need for manual drawing in Visio or CAD. This impactful project underscored the importance of engineering efficiency and left a lasting mark on Schumacher.
Reflecting on the experience, Schumacher said that he discovered a passion for the aerospace industry, an interest he might not have uncovered without this opportunity.
"This co-op allowed me to realize a passion for the aerospace industry and the incredible work being done in the field," he said. "Without this experience, I may not have considered it as a career path."
Beyond technical achievements of his NASA co-op, Schumacher said he valued the connections he built with NASA's diverse community. Collaborating with fellow interns and full-time employees provided a wealth of insights into technical concepts and professional growth.
"Working at a large organization allowed me to connect with other interns as we begin our careers, as well as full-time employees eager to share their knowledge," he said. "I always had someone to turn to when seeking to understand a technical concept or advice on building my soft skills."
For students embarking on their own co-op journeys, Schumacher offers practical advice: "Apply to any co-op you are interested in, even if you don't think you meet all the requirements," he said. "The hiring team may see a strong fit based on upcoming projects, company culture and more. Tailor your resume for each application to show how your skills match those listed. High-quality applications produced better results for me than high quantity."
Schumacher's story is a testament to the power of real-world experience and the impact of UToledo's integrated co-op program, which provides students with the tools to succeed in competitive industries.
As he looks to the future, Schumacher said his NASA experience has propelled him toward a career in aerospace engineering, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
"Reed is a true "go-getter", said Geoff Humphrys, director of the Shah Center for Engineering Career Development. "From the moment I met him during his first year, he was actively engaged in Shah Center events and on-site employer visits. Reed participated in our Engineering Career Expo his second semester, interviewed and secured a co-op prior to his second year and he also serves as a member of the Engineering Leadership Institute.
"I'm really excited to watch Reed navigate his career journey."