At Pentaflex, the future of manufacturing is shaped not just by seasoned professionals but also by the fresh perspectives brought in by talented interns. This summer, Pentaflex had the pleasure of hosting Robert Barnett, a senior at Wittenberg University, who is passionate about business and eager to make his mark. In this interview, Robert shares his journey at Pentaflex, the challenges he faced, and the valuable lessons he’s taking with him as he prepares for his future in business.
Q: What motivated you to take on this internship at Pentaflex, and how does it align with your career goals?
Robert Barnett: I hope to own a business one day, and I knew that Pentaflex would allow me to gain insight into how they run their company. This experience is a valuable step toward understanding the complexities of business operations, which is essential for my long-term goals.
Q: How has your coursework at Wittenberg prepared you for the tasks you’re handling during this internship?
Robert Barnett: My coursework has mainly helped me with working effectively in a team. Wittenberg is smaller and focuses more on group work, which translates well to the workplace. This experience has been invaluable in adapting to the collaborative environment at Pentaflex.
Q: Can you describe the specific project you’re working on to help reduce setup times in the shop?
Robert Barnett: I’m working on a toolkit that will allow for quicker change-over times. Having everything organized and in one place can greatly reduce setup times, improving efficiency on the shop floor.
Q: What steps have you taken so far in your project, and what results have you observed?
Robert Barnett: First, I figured out which dies needed which parts. After that, I started putting together toolboxes. Lastly, we assembled a tool rack to store everything. These steps have streamlined the process, and I’ve observed a noticeable reduction in setup times.
Q: What are some challenges you’ve faced while working on the setup time reduction project, and how have you addressed them?
Robert Barnett: The biggest challenge was having enough parts to continually set up toolboxes. There were a lot of days spent waiting for more parts. I addressed this by planning ahead and coordinating with suppliers to ensure a steady flow of materials.
Q: What tools or software have you been using for your project this summer, and how have they contributed to your progress?
Robert Barnett: For the project, I used Excel to keep track of what every die needed. It was very helpful to have a place to easily store all the needed information. Also, in the future, if any toolbox gets messed up, there’s a reference point to look back at.
Q: How has your experience at Pentaflex influenced your perspective on manufacturing and engineering?
Robert Barnett: Being a business major, my perspective has changed a lot. I realized how much extra goes into getting parts out the door after seeing how much we rely on the tool room and maintenance. There are so many different factors that go into smooth operations here, much more than I originally thought.
Q: What skills have you developed or strengthened during your internship that you believe will be beneficial in your future career?
Robert Barnett: I’ve developed problem-solving, work ethic, and urgency—all things that used to be more challenging for me. What was required of me during my time here has greatly improved these aspects of life, and I’m confident in my ability to replicate these skills in future opportunities.
Q: Are there any aspects of the manufacturing process at Pentaflex that have particularly interested you or sparked new ideas for further improvements?
Robert Barnett: Pentaflex, with the tool crib, is mainly a smooth sailing ship. The amount we produce has more to do with the time of the year rather than lacking on the performance side. However, being part of this process has sparked ideas for potential improvements in efficiency and organization.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience at Pentaflex this summer?
Robert Barnett: Working here was an overall great experience for my character. I have very high praise for my coworkers. I’m appreciative for their decades of experience and making my time here much more enjoyable.
Robert Barnett’s time at Pentaflex has been marked by growth, both professionally and personally. From developing essential skills like problem-solving and work ethic to gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities of manufacturing, his internship experience has been invaluable. As he returns to Wittenberg University to complete his studies, Robert carries with him the insights and confidence gained during his time at Pentaflex. We look forward to seeing where his career takes him next and are proud to have been a part of his journey!