{"id":90436,"date":"2025-01-21T04:00:42","date_gmt":"2025-01-21T08:00:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news.utoledo.edu\/?p=90436"},"modified":"2025-04-27T22:08:15","modified_gmt":"2025-04-28T02:08:15","slug":"seniors-nasa-co-op-experience-as-rocket-engineer-is-transformative","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.utoledo.edu\/index.php\/01_21_2025\/seniors-nasa-co-op-experience-as-rocket-engineer-is-transformative","title":{"rendered":"Senior\u2019s NASA Co-op Experience as Rocket Engineer is Transformative"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\u2019s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. <\/span><\/p>\n

His time at one of the world\u2019s most iconic aerospace facilities proved to be a career-defining experience for the senior from Columbus Grove, Ohio.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Reed Schumacher, a dual major in electrical engineering and computer science engineering, recently completed a co-op as a Pathways intern at NASA\u2019s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.<\/p><\/div>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThis co-op allowed me to realize a passion for the aerospace industry and the incredible work being done in the field,\u201d he said. \u201cWithout this experience, I may not have considered it as a career path.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Beyond technical achievements of his NASA co-op, Schumacher said he valued the connections he built with NASA\u2019s diverse community. Collaborating with fellow interns and full-time employees provided a wealth of insights into technical concepts and professional growth. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWorking 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,\u201d he said. \u201cI always had someone to turn to when seeking to understand a technical concept or advice on building my soft skills.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

For students embarking on their own co-op journeys, Schumacher offers practical advice: \u201cApply to any co-op you are interested in, even if you don’t think you meet all the requirements,\u201d he said. \u201cThe 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.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Schumacher\u2019s story is a testament to the power of real-world experience and the impact of UToledo\u2019s integrated co-op program, which provides students with the tools to succeed in competitive industries. <\/span><\/p>\n

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. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cReed is a true \u201cgo-getter\u201d, said Geoff Humphrys, director of the Shah Center for Engineering Career Development. \u201cFrom 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. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m really excited to watch Reed navigate his career journey.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n