Tiansui Chu
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Rotational Engineer at Consolidated Precision Products
Describe your potential job duties
Participate in rotational assignments (typically 6–12 months each) in areas such as:
Process Engineering
Process Control Engineering
Product Engineering
Quality Engineering
Facilities Engineering
Operations - Supervision
Collaborate within cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality, and operations at your assigned home site.
Engage in structured cross-site projects to gain exposure to CPP's broader manufacturing network and systems.
Apply engineering principles to troubleshoot production issues, optimize casting processes, improve quality and efficiency, and support the introduction of new products.
Develop systems-level thinking and the ability to navigate technical and organizational boundaries in a fast-paced, high-precision manufacturing setting.
Demonstrate practical problem-solving, data-driven decision-making, and leadership potential through project execution and team contributions.
In what ways did the Polytechnic and/or Purdue help make you uniquely qualified for your new job?
Through my involvement with the Purdue Student Chapter of the American Foundry Society, I expanded my knowledge of metal casting by the foundational coursework of MET 143. My participation in the Steel Founders' Society of America (SFSA) Cast in Steel competition allowed me to develop direct industry skills used in manufacturing aerospace-grade castings.
I utilized investment casting to produce components for a replica of George Washington's Cuttoe Sword, followed by the design and production of a horseman's axe the following year. Furthermore, my leadership and technical contributions to the SOET Capstone project in partnership with Caterpillar Inc. provided me with a platform to leverage skills in metallurgy, manufacturing processes, and team communication, all of which gave me an advantage during the interview process.
How has the college or someone in the college (feel free to name them) helped you achieve your goals?
The value of Purdue SOET lies in the bridge between theory and practice. Students engage directly in their own professional development, creating and working on projects that mirror the challenges and technical requirements future industry jobs.
Thank you to the MET Lab Faculty Clayton Kibbey and Teng Lee for helping me develop my skills and improve my understanding of manufacturing.
What specific classes (titles are more helpful than course numbers) helped prepare you for your new job?
MET 10200 - Production Design And Specifications, MET 14300 - Materials And Processes I , MET 14400 - Materials And Processes II, MET 24500 - Manufacturing Systems, MET 34600 - Advanced Materials In Manufacturing, MET 28400 - Introduction To Industrial Controls, CGT 16300 - Graphical Communication And Spatial Analysis,
If you had a favorite class, project, experience, or professor, what/who was it, and why?
My favorites would have to be the classes and club activities held in the foundry. I love seeing molten metal flow into molds to create complex, practical parts. From MET 143 and AFS Casting Nights to my two SFSA competitions and my senior design project, the foundry provides a unique experience that many college students don't get to see in an underrepresented industry. The blend of deep technical knowledge, practical experience, and art offers a wonderful contrast, bridging an ancient manufacturing method with modern, innovative ways to improve.
The value of Purdue’s engineering technology programs lies in the bridge between theory and practice. Students engage directly in their own professional development, creating and working on projects that mirror the challenges of industry jobs."