Guest Blog by ELP Student Divyansh Sharma – Computer Science – College of Engineering – Class of 2020
My name is Divyansh Sharma, a native of India’s capital city – New Delhi. I am a rising sophomore studying computer science and entrepreneurship at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in the United States of America. I recently completed my first month working as an engineering consultant in the world-class manufacturing sector at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles in Turin, Italy. I engage with the company’s premier brands – Maserati and Alfa Romeo – through engineering consulting operations and smart saturation solutions. I am personally and professionally growing.
My decision to engage with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles during the summer was a swift one. I was zealous about the prospect of working with an engineering operations and consulting department of a prestigious automobile firm. I wanted insight into the world of consulting operations and quick strategy deployment, along with access to state-of-the-art infrastructure that shapes today’s automobile business arena. Here now in this internship, consistent support by everybody who believes in my potential enables and accentuates my efforts!
My first week at FCA involved intensive training on world class manufacturing techniques and industry 4.0 applications. After being introduced to my first project, I dove into the smart saturation problems experienced by automobile firms in general. I honed my skills in computer science as I explored the interdisciplinary fields of mechanical and industrial engineering. However with limited knowledge in the realm of big data analysis and constraint optimization, I was initially challenged. I navigated through these challenges by reading avidly and tackling the root of the problem, without worrying too much about the end result. This approach, novel to me, has changed my perspective on the art of learning.
With determination to delve deep into designated problems stems from my passion to learn and be curious. I equip myself with a plethora of information by reading publicly available research papers, skimming through internal company presentations, and having professional coffee chats with senior employees. Here at Fiat Chrysler, I am in an environment that supports my ambitions and drive to facilitate change. I now have a penchant to ask more questions and seek answers. Try it. Project leaders and co-workers can be extremely helpful and provide instrumental guidance on how to achieve.
Apart from professional commitments, I have the opportunity to explore Italy and other neighbouring countries. The weekends give me ample time to interact with locals and walk through busy streets with soaring skyscrapers, magnificent cathedrals, and bustling market corners. I enjoy a view of the Alps through my window and the occasional gelato. Exposure to European culture and lifestyle instills in me a sense of gratitude for these diverse opportunities. I am extremely grateful to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, my boss and senior project leaders, and the Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Michigan, for providing me access and engagement at the forefront of innovation and industry 4.0 applications. Growth Gear here in Turin, Italy throughout this 12-week internship means “pedal to the metal” for me!