Wyatte was a Manufacturing Engineer Intern for Varex Imaging during Summer 2025.
Briefly explain what you did and the result of your internship.
During my internship at Varex Imaging, I designed and implemented manufacturing improvements that enhanced workflow efficiency, product quality, and operator safety. Projects included fabricating over 40 engine cart hook sets for better hose management, developing ergonomic heat exchanger handles to reduce leaks, creating a thread-checking fixture to streamline inspections, and leading a foam packaging redesign to improve shipping protection. I also performed destructive hose testing, time studies, and documentation process improvements. These efforts reduced rework, improved ergonomics, sped up inspections, and strengthened overall manufacturing processes, directly supporting Varex’s operational goals.
What did you learn on your internship that you were not expecting to learn?
I was not expecting to learn how vital clear and consistent communication is between operators, engineers, and suppliers in keeping projects on track. Beyond the technical skills, I gained a deeper understanding of how quality documentation is used to validate improvements, and I saw firsthand how small, operator-focused changes, like ergonomic adjustments or clearer work instructions, can have a major impact on efficiency, safety, and overall workflow.
How have your future plans changed because of what you learned from your internship experience?
This internship reinforced my desire to work in a hands-on manufacturing engineering role where I can combine design, process improvement, and collaboration with production teams. It also showed me the value of developing stronger skills in ergonomics, lean manufacturing, and supplier coordination. Ultimately, the experience confirmed that I want my career to focus on creating practical, user-centered solutions that improve both efficiency and workplace safety.
Please share how your experience led to personal inspiration or insightful revelation.
My experience showed me how impactful it is to involve the people who use a process or tool every day in the design and improvement cycle. Seeing operators’ enthusiasm when a solution truly made their work easier inspired me to prioritize end-user feedback in my future engineering projects. It reinforced the idea that effective engineering is not just about technical precision, but about creating solutions that serve people and improve their day-to-day work.
Would you recommend this internship to other students?
Yes, I would recommend this internship to other students because it offers a balance of hands-on engineering work, problem-solving opportunities, and real-world manufacturing experience. You get to apply classroom concepts directly to projects that have a visible impact, collaborate with skilled operators and engineers, and develop both technical and professional communication skills. It’s an environment where you can contribute meaningfully while learning how engineering decisions are made and implemented in industry.
Is there anything else you would like to say regarding your internship?
I’m grateful for the opportunity to work at Varex Imaging and for the trust my mentor and team placed in me to take ownership of meaningful projects. The combination of technical challenges, supportive coworkers, and the chance to see my work implemented on the production floor made the experience both rewarding and motivating. It was a pivotal step in my development as an engineer, and I’m confident the skills and lessons I gained will carry forward into my future career.