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.

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."