Undergraduate Case Study: Danae Topi
We met with undergraduate Danae Topi, to get the lowdown on her 12-month Industrial Placement, in the Design & Development department at YASA.
I am returning to complete my final year of my Master’s in Engineering, I study Mechanical Engineering with Mechatronics at the University of Southampton.
How did find and why did you choose to contact YASA for your industrial placement year?
During a Formula Student team meeting, a friend approached me with a job advertisement on Linked-in they thought I would like.
At the time, I was writing my bachelor’s dissertation on the design optimisation of a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine, and my interest in motors was well-known among my peers.
Excited by the rare placement opportunities in electric motor design, especially with a leading company like YASA, I submitted my CV for the Design and Development Undergraduate Engineer position. After visiting YASA's facilities and meeting the team, accepting their offer was an easy choice!
Can you tell us a little more about your role at YASA?
I work within the Development team of the Engineering Department, focusing on ensuring the performance and reliability of axial flux motors.
My role is varied and multifaceted, involving extensive rotor testing, failure analysis, and root cause investigation to enhance product performance. I collaborate with my team to solve complex technical challenges and develop additional tests and concepts to validate product quality. I often work closely with suppliers, seeking for opportunities for process and material improvements and new technologies.
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With the support of my manager, I had the opportunity to briefly collaborate the Innovation Team on a year-long project involving electromagnetic design, simulations and motor control software development. Throughout my placement I have developed my practical engineering skills through component testing alongside learning more about materials, manufacturing, failure analysis and microscopy amongst others.
Danae Topi
What are your highlights from your industrial placement year?
One of the key highlights of my industrial placement was the opportunity to work alongside talented engineers, from whom I gained invaluable insights and practical knowledge. I also had the chance to travel across the UK and to Germany to engage directly with suppliers, ensuring that they were meeting our standards and providing support when challenges arose.
What advice would you give someone considering an industrial placement next year?
I strongly encourage pursuing an industrial placement, as it offers a remarkable opportunity for both professional and personal development. This is the perfect time to adopt a mindset of openness and curiosity, as asking questions freely will significantly enhance your learning experience.
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By engaging fully in this process, you will gain valuable insights and practical experience that will greatly benefit your future career. Coming out of university with practical experience not only sets you apart but also equips you with competencies needed for success in your chosen field
Danae Topi
What are your career plans after university?
After completing my degree, I plan to leverage my industrial placement experience to secure an engineering role within the automotive or energy sectors. I aim to contribute to innovative projects that drive technological advancements. I am excited about the journey ahead and any opportunities that may lead me back to YASA.