My attachment with Volvo Aero Corporation in Sweden was both a rewarding and memorable experience.  Over a period of 24 weeks, the amount of technical knowledge that I have gained, and the working experience that I have acquired both exceeded my expectations before I began my first day in the company.

Volvo Aero manufactures, among other aerospace components, rotating aircraft engine components.  My research project assigned to me during the attachment involved the ultrasonic evaluation of samples of titanium alloys to determine the correlation, if any, between the micro- and macrostructural properties of titanium alloys and ultrasonic testing.

I began my attachment studying the literature and learning to use the ultrasonic equipment for about one and a half months before going into the actual experiments.  I was given a lot of flexibility and independence as to how I should proceed with the project.  That was something I appreciated because I have always wanted to experience working in a research environment, where I can explore the options available to fulfil my objectives of the project.  My colleagues were very professional and supportive, always willing to lend a helping hand whenever I encounter any difficulties during the course of my project.

Volvo Aero is a big company with numerous facilities and resources available for the staff.  I find that very impressive.  There is a library where I could find just about any technical literature I required, a printing department where I could get my report and presentation slides done professionally, an IT department where I could actually borrow a laptop to take home should I need to work at home as well.  There is also a gym and an indoor hall for playing a typical swedish sport, innebandy.

I also had the opportunity to use some of the modern and advanced Non-destructive Testing (NDT) equipment in Volvo Aero.  The ultrasonic testing equipment, in particular, was the one I spent most of my time on.  It was an expensive and sophisticated equipment, but my colleague, who is a specialist in ultrasonic testing, was always so helpful and patient with me, that I was able to learn the essential operations necessary to carry out my experiments for my project.

Another observation which I found impressive was the absence of formality between the boss and the subordinates.  Everyone addressed each other by first names, regardless of the position they held, and all doors of the offices (including that of the boss) were always open, creating a very casual and assessible working environment.  I was given the same level of respect as any other colleague in my department.  Everyone took turns to make coffee for the department during coffee breaks every week, including the boss!

On the whole, my IA with Volvo Aero has been truly a wonderful experience.  I am grateful for being given the opportunity and will certainly remember this experience for the rest of my life!