Students gain industry experience at OMRON’s new robotics hub
Isabel Rahme and Luke Stojkovski are among the students gaining invaluable industry experience through internships with OMRON, a leading robotics innovator, at the company’s newly opened regional headquarters at Western Sydney University’s Engineering Innovation Hub.
Isabel, a fourth-year student studying a Bachelor of Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering (Honours) at the University, has embarked on a new internship with OMRON.
“It's been incredibly exciting being around robots and collaboratively working with them. We've come a long way with technology, and to be around the milestones we've achieved has been a great experience,” said Isabel.
“Hands-on work is so important because only by applying what is learnt in class, one can thoroughly grasp all those theories. I've had a total of three internships so far and I can confidently say that I excel in class due to being exposed to working in industry.”
Throughout her university journey, Isabel has been a Mechanical Engineer with the University’s world-class Solar Car Team. She has also worked as a research assistant exploring the phenomenon of black holes.
Her advice for HSC students looking at courses and internship, including women interested in engineering, is to pursue what you are you are passionate about.
“Think about the life you want to live after university and choose a course that aligns with that vision. My best advice for internships is to just apply! Whatever experience you can get is a bonus.”
A proud Western Sydney resident, Isabel is driven by a deep sense of purpose. “I believe you should be open to what life presents in front of you. My main goal is to give back to my community and set an example for my young relatives and future generation to come.”
Luke Stojkovski has just completed his final semester studying the Bachelor of Engineering Science, majoring in Robotics and Mechatronics at the University. With his industrial experience logbook as the only task remaining to complete his degree, Luke has been fully immersing himself in practical engineering as an Engineering Trainee with OMRON.
“Most recently I have been 3D modelling and 3D printing proof of concepts for clients, printing many parts for the robots that will be on display at the Engineering Innovation Hub, assisting with the build of the MOMA robots whilst also writing a build guide for it. This is just scratching the surface of everything that I have done as part of my internship,” said Luke.
The Penrith resident thinks his fellow peers will benefit greatly from studying alongside OMRON on-campus.
“Working at OMRON is very fast paced and dynamic, which will help you become a great engineer and become efficient and fast with problem solving. I feel like, in the nicest way possible, that I have been put in the deep end at OMRON to challenge me and unlock my engineering potential.”
Looking ahead, Luke is driven by a desire to make a positive impact on people's lives. “Advanced prosthetics seem like a pretty cool area to explore as I believe it will challenge my imagination and allow me to help a lot of people.”
ENDS
2 December 2024
Photo credit: Monica Pronk
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