NURTURING AND DEVELOPING TOMORROW’S WORKFORCE

At Archipelago Technology, the role of an engineer involves addressing a variety of challenges. From understanding the surface chemistry of a substrate to developing a coating process that achieves a pinhole-free coating. This work requires the measuring and tracking of each substrate and coating liquid. These measurements are essential to defining the coating process.

Creating samples for customers is a collaborative effort. After receiving the customer’s product requirements – and understanding the materials involved – engineers work together to conduct trials. Typically, the customer’s coating is jetted onto a demonstration substrate using the PowerdropTM Coater. 

The insights gained from these jetting trials help to optimise the defined Powerdrop coating process for each customer. Everyone at Archipelago is also assigned a personal project, aimed at improving the core Powerdrop technology. One example is the ‘Surface Treatment’ project, which sought to identify suitable methods for treating substrate surfaces, for example, increasing their free-surface energy. Increasing surface energy allows liquid droplets to wet more easily, helping to create a uniform, continuous coating.

“Everyone at Archipelago is assigned personal projects aimed at improving the core Powerdrop technology”

As an engineer at Archipelago, daily responsibilities focus on ensuring efficient project execution for developing the end-to-end Powerdrop coating process. Additionally, flawless sample production for a variety of customers is essential. This work not only supports the company’s objectives, but also creates lasting value for both clients and colleagues.

As a year-in-industry student, fresh ideas and perspectives are brought to research and development projects. These are particularly useful in prototyping and testing. Contributions help accelerate product-development cycles, allowing for faster refinement of designs. In addition, assistance in improving existing systems, ensures that Archipelago continues to deliver high-quality solutions to clients. Engaging with emerging technologies and automation techniques also enables the company to explore new possibilities for its technological applications.

“As a year-in-industry student, fresh ideas and perspectives are brought to research and development projects”

The placement year at Archipelago has provided Mohammad with invaluable experience. His hands-on work will contribute to the development of a future career as a robotics engineer. 

Practical Engineering Skills – Mohammad has gained hands-on experience in mechanical design, prototyping and testing which has strengthened his technical competencies and problem-solving abilities.

Industry Knowledge – Understanding how engineering principles are applied in a real-world industrial setting, has provided insights into product development, project management and manufacturing processes.

Collaboration and Communication – Working within a team of engineers has improved collaboration skills, the ability to communicate ideas clearly and the capacity 
to contribute meaningfully to projects.

Adaptability and Innovation – The experience has enhanced problem-solving abilities and creative thinking, preparing for the dynamic challenges of an engineering career.4

Mohammad summarises, “Ultimately, my year-in-industry at Archipelago Technology has been a transformative experience.” He continues, “It has not only reinforced my passion for engineering, but also equipped me with the skills, knowledge and confidence to excel in 
my future endeavours.” Mohammad concludes, “As I return to my final year at university, 
I do so with a deeper appreciation for the impact of engineering in industry and a clearer vision for my professional journey ahead. 
I would definitely recommend doing a year-in-industry. To anyone considering the long-term advantages, it is an opportunity worth seizing.”

Powerdrop is a Trademark of Archipelago Technology