Alumni Profile
Danielle Chevalier
It's OK if you have zero interest in alternative fuels, because you can apply the basic skills (group communication, model making, project planning) to any industry. EAS 140 and small groups teach you how to overcome inexperience and that is a valuable skill in any career."
Where I've Been
Cities
- Groton, CT
Organizations
- General Dynamics Electric Boat
Positions
- Process Engineer
What I've Done
What types of work have you performed? What projects have you worked on?
I work on improvement efforts ranging from events to projects across Electric Boat. These projects have been in operations, materials, quality, and human resources.
What have been some favorite aspects of your work?
My favorite aspect of my job includes helping people understand the underlying causes of problems they experience at work. I enjoy knowing that I make their jobs (slightly) easier. I also enjoy the data analysis part of my job where I use statistics (Designed Experiments, hypothesis testing, graphs etc.) to understand what is helping or hurting a particular area.
What was one of your most satisfying days as an engineer?
One of my most memorable days as an engineer was facilitating a multi-department meeting where several breakthroughs were made into major problems being experienced. It was just simple conversation, including process walkthroughs, that helped the team realize the cause of ongoing problems. Getting everyone on the same page, at the same time, was very satisfying.
Was it worth it? What has your engineering background made possible for you? What value has it added to your overall life?
Yes, definitely worth it. My engineering background taught me how to think- and that has proved valuable in my transition to industry. During tough days at work, I can remember differential equations, calculus III, and many of the other crazy classes, and I remember what I learned and how I can use that experience to tackle new challenges.
Why it Matters
What would you say to the first-year students currently sitting in your shoes?
It's OK if you have zero interest in alternative fuels, because you can apply the basic skills (group communication, model making, project planning) to any industry. EAS 140 and small groups teach you how to overcome inexperience and that is a valuable skill in any career.