Internship Success

Kyle Swanson
Major: Physics and Mathematics
Residence: Hudson, Wis.
Anticipated graduation date: May 2017
Professional Experience: NCCM Company 

Kyle Swanson, a senior math and physics major, has parlayed his experience at NCCM Company into a variety of practical and marketable skills. UW-River Falls connections at NCCM have even influenced Kyle's coursework. Now, after years of hands-on experience, he plans to continue in the field.

How do you think this professional experience will help you prepare for your career?
"My job has given me a wide variety of industry skills that will be useful anywhere, as well as the skill to work in both production and factory type industries and office/sales type work. I do a lot of technical testing and data collection/analysis as well as product development, machine design and building. I have developed a strong sense of mechanical adeptness, problem solving, technical writing and other important skills required in any workplace format."

Did a faculty member or staff member play a role in your decision to apply for this internship?
"The CEO is an alumnus of UWRF Physics and was a persuading factor for me enrolling in the physics course at UWRF."

What are your responsibilities?
"Technical Aid and Product Development. As a Research and Development (R&D) Tech Aid working in the R&D lab, I am conducting tests and analyzing results. I assist with engineering activities and coating efforts. I conduct experiments in the development of coatings, processes and applications, assist in the refinement of surface preparation, tooling and masking, and troubleshoot production process problems. I am also responsible for assisting in concept generation, design, development and evaluation of new products, materials and technologies." 

Where do you see yourself in five years?
"In five years, I will still likely be working here [at NCCM] because I am obligated to work here for four years after I graduate because they are paying for my schooling. After that, I hope to either still be taking classes to further my education or to be working in some sort of technical field doing research or technical work in a research lab."