Being constructive with non-destructive evaluations

The Engineering Quality Control Department (DEPT. 3822) in Plant 22 (Plt. 22) at Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) in Mississauga, has supported Durham College’s (DC) Mechanical Engineering Technician – Non-Destructive Evaluation program over the last seven years with its student internship program.

The partnership began about eight years ago, when David Craig, fellow inspection engineer and NDT manager, visited a lunch and learn at the college where he was impressed by the enthusiasm shown by students.

“The internship spawned from this initial interaction,” said Katy Zaidman, program co-ordinator for the Mechanical Engineering – Non-Destructive Evaluation program at DC. “As an advocate for the future NDT workforce, David and the Plt. 22 NDT department established year-long internships that allow students to experience first-hand the heightened technology demands of the aerospace industry.”

The partnership, which includes Plt. 22, DC and Mohawk College has benefitted 11 students to date.

“When Plt. 22 took over the placement program from its initial Montreal location, students gained technical knowledge while also getting the opportunity to process and inspect a wide variety of parts – from nuts and bolts to more critical aspects,” said Craig.

He added that over the years the program has evolved, and students now have the opportunity to work for a one-year term in Plt. 22, which aligns with the college curriculum.

“I am a different person today,” said Jenifer King an intern from DC. “At P&WC I have acquired knowledge of how to apply the theory learned in class to real inspection situations.”

She added that the internship is an invaluable opportunity to work with one of the most reputable companies in Canada and train with people who have decades of experience in NDT.

“The experience of learning and working with the P&WC NDT team will stay with me for a very long time,” said King.

“We would also like to recognize Karen Zwara, supervisor of Dept. 3822 as well as the Plt. 22 NDT team for their support of the program” said Craig. “In addition to mentoring and providing technical support to the students, Karen’s team participates in the interview and selection process with both DC and Mohawk College to ensure the internship is offered to suitable candidates.”

The process is now established and well positioned to continue offering NDT students much needed practical experience, hours and access to NDT lines, equipment and certified inspectors.

If you’re interested in DC’s Mechanical Engineering – Non-Destructive Evaluation program or any other programs the college has to offer, drop by our Open House on Saturday, March 21.