EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology students had an exclusive opportunity to visit the General Electric (GE) Aerospace facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to gain insights into the manufacturing, quality assurance, and engineering processes involved in GE Aerospace's products, including the development of black boxes for aircraft.

Students representing majors in aviation flight technology, aviation management technology, and electrical and computer engineering gained firsthand insights into the innovative processes and technologies employed at the facility. From manufacturing to quality control and engineering, students gained a comprehensive understanding of the critical role played by GE Aerospace in the aviation industry.

"This trip was an invaluable experience for our students," said Mohamad Qatu, dean of the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. "It gave them a glimpse into the future of aviation and the critical role that engineers play in designing, developing, and maintaining the commercial and military aircraft of tomorrow," said Qatu.

This learning experience was made possible by EMU alumna and GameAbove advisory board member, Kristin Young. Young is the director of software engineering, people operations, and site leadership at GE Aerospace. 

“It was my pleasure to host the trip for such an amazing group of students who were eager and ready to learn,” said Young. “They asked great questions and were prepared to learn about manufacturing, quality, and engineering. Chao Sun and Lisa Comben were instrumental in making the trip possible.”

Caleb Johnson, a graduating senior studying electrical and computer engineering, was able to attend the tour and experienced seeing another area he had not previously considered applying for his degree. 

“The most interesting thing to me from the GE Aerospace tour was the variety and large quantity of safety and quality testing performed at the facility. Employees performed tests on thermal tolerance, structural integrity, electromagnetic compatibility, and more. It was amazing to see so many branches of engineering coming together to make outstanding products,” said Johnson.” 

“I’m extremely grateful that I was invited and permitted to attend this tour. Before this experience, I had not considered applying for my degree in the aerospace industry. Since this experience, the number one industry I want to be a part of is the aerospace industry,” Johnson said.

About the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology
The GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology provides world-class experiences in engineering, cybersecurity, aviation, construction management, autonomous vehicles, drone technology, aviation, and other areas of study in high-demand career fields in engineering and technology. It is within the college’s mission to cultivate individuals' intellectual and personal growth through research-informed education and diverse programs that emphasize the practical application of scientific knowledge. For more information about the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology, visit the college’s website at gameabove.emich.edu. 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.