Navigating Waters: A Co-op Student's Reflection at Hydrasurvey

During my summer co-op at Hydrasurvey, I gained practical insights into the world of engineering problem-solving and sludge surveying techniques. This experience allowed me to further my knowledge in the complexities of data engineering and fieldwork, particularly in scenarios where unexpected obstacles demanded quick thinking and adaptability.?????????

Throughout my time at Hydrasurvey, I encountered firsthand the unpredictable nature of surveying work. The need to address equipment malfunctions, rapidly changing weather conditions, and unforeseen hurdles taught me the importance of improvisation, quick decision making and creative problem-solving. This skill in managing uncertainties became one of the most important aspects of my co-op experience, giving me hands on experience that can’t be taught in textbook scenarios.

A significant portion of my learning revolved around sludge surveying methodologies. I gained a deeper understanding of how sonar technology functions to provide accurate underwater topographic mapping. The main focus of the surveys was based on sonar and GPS systems for mapping and location purposes. As I became proficient in operating these technologies, I recognized the importance that precision plays in data collection and its subsequent impact on survey accuracy.

My involvement in the DMU project taught me a lot as well. I worked with a datalogger connected to various sensors used to measure things from flowrate to dry tonnes removed. Diving into the mechanisms that facilitate data upload and organization such as the code and the transfer of data gave me a new understanding of data engineering and sparked my interest in it. Being able to understand code and software is crucial as the age of technology continues to progress, having the opportunity to learn the innerworkings is very valuable.

The co-op experience also emphasized the importance of effective communication and collaboration. Working alongside others in sometimes very strenuous situations required a significant amount of coordination and the collective effort to effectively finish the job at hand. Being able to work effectively with others is one of the most important things learned during this co-op experience and has made me very grateful of my own opportunity’s. Being able to have someone that motivates you and keeps there head up when things go bad is an attitude that is great to have, and a lot can be learned from this. The engagement of each team member was very important in achieving successful surveys, reinforcing the importance of effective cooperation in and out of the workplace.

As my co-op term at Hydrasurvey concludes, I reflect on the practical growth I have undergone. The exposure to unpredictable challenges, post processing of sludge surveying and immersion in DMU data management techniques have collectively contributed to my growth in the field of civil engineering. These acquired insights will undoubtedly influence my future pursuits as I aim to figure out where my passions and interests will lead me.

In conclusion, my co-op at Hydrasurvey has been a pragmatic journey through engineering problem-solving and sludge surveying techniques. The realities of fieldwork, both in terms of challenges and rewards, have given me wisdom that will undoubtedly shape my future as an engineer. This co-op experience impact on my skill set and understanding of engineering specifics is something I deeply value as I step forward in my engineering career.