Name: Nathan Van Damme
Major and College: Johns Hopkins University
Internship Title: Product Development Engineer Intern
Internship Site: Congruence Medical Solutions
1) Please tell us about your career goals.
I have always been extremely fascinated with medical technology throughout my education. This internship is extremely helpful in establishing my career as a successful engineer in the medtech industry. On top of that, in my final graduation year, I became fascinated with the creative freedom of entrepreneurship. Therefore, my near term career goals are really focussed on acquiring the correct leadership skills and industry knowledge in order to eventually found my own company.
2) Tell us about your internship (i.e. day-to-day responsibilities, special projects/clients and work culture).
What started as shadowing my colleagues has rapidly transitioned into redesigning an existing productline for the company. A device that has been not been revisited in a long time due to time constraints is being revitilised and ive been given full responsibility. Its a wonderful opportunity to use my CAD design skills on an industrial scale to meet medical grade quality standards. On top of that, due to my unique skillset acquired in grad school, I’ve been made the lead on a new project which encompasses fixing a sterilisation machine. The is a big step forward for the company since it allows us to stop outsourcing this step of production and gives us more control of the final product. Lastly, due to my high technical understanding of the mechanics of our devices, i’ve been invited to attend an overseas conference representing the company. This is an amazing opportunity to get more insight into the sales side of a business and I’m very grateful for this opportunity.
3) Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?
I heard about the company through a friend at school, he was doing a co-op there in his final semester. After I graduated I contacted the company and 2 days later I was invited for an in-person interview since I was local to baltimore. The interview aimed to test both my technical skills and non-textbook problem solving capabilities which allowed me to differentiated me from other candidates. The process was extremely smooth and a week later I could start my internship.
4) Which of the following resources did you use to find your current experience?
Faculty Connections
5) What have you enjoyed the most about your position or organization?
6) How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?
Yes definitely, I adjusted really quickly to this new company environment which resulted in me being a big help in a busy production phase. On top of that, through my creative thinking, I am expanding the current company product assortiment with new devices that can really make an impact on clinical trials for pharmaceutical drug development, which is really motivating as a young professional. Lastly, through the unique combination of degrees I acquired, the company is able to extend its quality control by making me responsible for our new sterilization machine.
7) What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience (i.e. Internship search, Resume or Interview tips)?
Working in smaller companies is an amazing opportunity for young professionals seekign to expand their knowledge of business develooment. It allows you to get involved in big decisions more easily and get a better understanding of the technological landscape of that industry, so do not hesitate to give it a try. During your application and interview, try putting yourself on their side of the table. A company is looking for a reliable candidate that can think beyond a conceptual project. Prototyping, testing and validating your test method are essential skills in university research that easily transelate to the industry, so focus on that!