Advanced Composites Manufacturing Intern – Carbon Fiber Layup

Description

Fort Wayne Carbon Fiber is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Advanced Composites Manufacturing Intern to gain hands-on experience in carbon fiber manufacturing and advanced composite production. This internship is designed for students interested in advanced manufacturing, engineering technology, industrial technology, quality, or skilled technical careers.

The intern will work alongside experienced manufacturing personnel and receive structured training in carbon fiber materials, mold preparation, composite layup, production processes, quality inspection, and workplace safety.

The position combines hands-on manufacturing experience with technical instruction and mentorship. No previous carbon fiber or composites experience is required; Fort Wayne Carbon Fiber will provide training throughout the internship.

Responsibilities

Learn the fundamentals of carbon fiber and composite manufacturing.

Assist with preparation of carbon fiber materials, molds, tooling, and production equipment.

Perform supervised carbon fiber layup activities according to established work instructions and specifications.

Learn proper material placement, ply orientation, handling, and preparation techniques.

Read and follow manufacturing work instructions, process documentation, and basic technical drawings.

Assist with vacuum bagging, curing, trimming, finishing, and other composite manufacturing processes as applicable.

Learn proper use and care of manufacturing tools, molds, fixtures, and equipment.

Participate in visual and dimensional inspection of manufactured components.

Learn to identify common manufacturing defects and understand methods used to prevent them.

Maintain accurate production and quality documentation.

Follow established safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized work area.

Work alongside production, quality, and engineering personnel to understand how different functions support the manufacturing process.

Participate in a continuous-improvement or process-improvement project during the internship.

Receive regular coaching and feedback from an assigned supervisor or mentor.

Qualifications

Current student.

Interest in advanced manufacturing, engineering technology, industrial technology, composites, skilled trades, or a related technical field.

Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.

Willingness to learn new manufacturing processes and technical skills.

Dependable, punctual, and able to work effectively as part of a team.

Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.

Comfortable performing hands-on work in a manufacturing environment.

Ability to stand for extended periods during the workday.

Ability to safely perform the physical requirements associated with assigned manufacturing activities, with appropriate assistance or equipment when necessary.

Previous manufacturing, machining, composites, engineering, or shop experience is preferred but not required.

Learning Objectives

Explain the basic carbon fiber composite manufacturing process from raw material preparation through finished-product inspection.

Demonstrate fundamental carbon fiber layup and material-handling techniques.

Interpret basic manufacturing work instructions, technical drawings, specifications, and process documentation.

Understand how ply orientation, material placement, pressure, temperature, and curing processes affect the performance and quality of composite components.

Apply basic quality-control concepts, including visual inspection, dimensional verification, defect identification, traceability, and documentation.

Demonstrate safe and proper use of common manufacturing tools, equipment, molds, and fixtures.

Apply workplace safety practices appropriate for an advanced manufacturing environment.

Develop practical problem-solving and continuous-improvement skills by participating in a manufacturing improvement project.

Demonstrate professional workplace skills, including teamwork, communication, dependability, time management, and accountability.

Identify potential career pathways within advanced manufacturing, including composite manufacturing, production operations, quality assurance, engineering technology, and manufacturing leadership.

Contact Information