Anna Weber

Responsibilities

One of my main responsibilities in the DATS lab is leaning & maintaining all paper & textile printers because without proper upkeep, these machines would not be able to produce quality prints for students/faculty. In the DATS lab, we complete orders each week using lab machinery such as the HP Design Jet printer, 8-color Mimaki textile printer, Melco EMT16X embroidery machine, and Trotec Speedy 400 Laser Cutter. Throughout the semester, myself and the other interns have consistently kept inventory of supplies such as plotter papers, inks, fabrics, thread, etc. in order to ensure we never run low on the items needed for each machine.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment during this internship is becoming proficient in the various technology we use in the lab. The machines are very high-tech and complex but with a little practice I began to feel comfortable using them.

Learning experience

The biggest lesson I have learned is applicable skills that aren’t directly related to my merchandising focus. We have been working on creating and printing new documents that give a step-by-step tutorial of how to thread each machine in the production studio which has given me great insight into the types of machines available to students in the sewing labs.

What advice would you give?

Don't be afraid to apply for internships that aren't directly within your focus! Working in the DATS Lab isn't necessarily related to a career in Apparel Merchandising but it has taught me skills that will allow me to stand out as a candidate when I start applying for jobs at the end of the semester.