MSOE emphasizes the value of applying course work to hands-on learning experiences in the classroom as well as outside of the classroom through internships. Industrial engineering student Jake Chudecke embraced this sentiment with open arms, holding three different internships during his time at MSOE at Tesla, Generac and Badger Meter.

“School can teach students a lot, but applying those skills in real settings is extremely different than in the classroom,” said Chudecke.

When choosing a major, Chudecke wanted a mix of business and engineering, and industrial engineering provided him with the best of both worlds. He put his business logic and engineering mindset to work at his internships.

At Tesla, Chudecke served as the quality systems engineering intern in Buffalo, New York. He supported the production of high-quality products through the continual improvement of process and product quality and the systems that surround him. Seeing the production in action was awe inspiring. “My favorite part was being surrounded by innovators and seeing these major advancements of manufacturing in operation.”

Chudecke also held an internship at Badger Meter in Brown Deer, Wisconsin. As the manufacturing engineering intern, he worked on improving and supporting production efforts in the Brown Deer facility. “The best part was getting the chance to apply curriculum in real-world settings and connecting the classroom lessons to real-world situations.”

After experiencing the values of experiential learning first-hand through his internships, Chudecke desired to get involved with the CREATE Institute as a Student Fellow.

“I saw the importance of experiential learning through my internships. I wanted to be a part of what MSOE is doing with experiential learning, since I know what it has done for me. I am looking forward to working with local non-profits and businesses, as well as getting out into the community and making a positive change.”

CREATE Student Fellows strive to grow the MSOE Mindset on campus. Chudecke already applies the mindset to his life.

“I use the MSOE Mindset as a map of areas to improve and focus on, especially the servant-leadership and entrepreneurial mindsets.”  

Originally from Burnsville, Minnesota, Chudecke followed his grandfather’s footsteps to MSOE. His grandfather attended MSOE for his undergrad and loved his time here. In addition to his industrial engineering course work, internships and fellowship with CREATE, he also is involved in the Robotics Alumni organization, Tau Sigma Nu (TSN) Fraternity and is a FIRST Robotics mentor.