Hands-on learning at Kautex Textron allowed Rising Star Award recipient Shanmugamanikkam Subramaniyam to transform theory into practice, streamlining quality systems and collaborating on automation projects with global teams. (VICTOR ROMAO/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
Turning academic knowledge into practical solutions is the goal of every graduate student, and for Shanmugamanikkam Subramaniyam, that ambition came to life during his co-op term at Kautex Textron.
A major global auto parts supplier, Kautex Textron manufactures plastic fuel and battery systems, castings and industrial packaging for the automotive industry.
Now in the second year of his master’s in electrical and computer engineering at the University of Windsor, Subramaniyam is completing his final academic requirements while reflecting on a placement that helped shape his professional goals.
During a four-month co-op at Kautex Textron’s Windsor plant, he gained hands-on experience that bridged classroom theory with real-world manufacturing challenges, streamlining quality systems and supporting automation initiatives alongside global teams.
Q: Can you tell me about your experience with Kautex Textron?
A: My time at Kautex Textron gave me insight into how engineering operates in a real manufacturing environment.
I worked on digital projects that made quality processes faster, more accurate and easier for teams to manage.
This included improving how data was collected and shared so production and quality teams could make quicker decisions.
Being on the shop floor helped me understand the challenges faced by personnel and how technology can improve their day-to-day activities.
I also collaborated with the global automation team to prepare plant tools for use at other locations.
The experience helped me grow as an engineer.
I honed my problem-solving skills, worked with diverse teams and applied classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
What made it especially meaningful was the work culture — supportive, open and collaborative.
Overall, it was a rewarding experience that deepened my interest in digital transformation and quality systems.
Q: What valuable lessons did you take away from the placement?
A: I gained a better understanding of how large companies operate and how different teams contribute to a common goal.
I learned the importance of communication, organization and adaptability when handling real responsibilities in a dynamic environment.
This experience boosted my confidence in taking ownership of tasks, asking the right questions and finding solutions when faced with challenges.
I now feel a sense of professionalism and understand what it takes to make a meaningful contribution.
Q: How did your studies prepare you for this experience?
A: My studies provided the analytical foundation and problem-solving mindset that were essential for transitioning smoothly into the workplace.
Courses emphasizing teamwork and critical thinking helped me approach new challenges with confidence and adapt quickly to a professional setting.
The university environment fostered independence and responsibility, which proved invaluable during my co-op.
It laid the groundwork for translating academic learning into practical solutions.
Subramaniyam’s co-op journey is a testament to the power of experiential learning.
By applying classroom theory to real-world challenges, he not only advanced his technical skills but also discovered the value of collaboration, adaptability and innovation in a global manufacturing setting.
His experience at Kautex Textron has strengthened his confidence and deepened his passion for digital transformation — qualities that will drive his success as an engineer and inspire others to embrace opportunities that turn knowledge into impact.
New employers looking to learn more about hiring a co-op student can contact Co-operative Education and Workplace Partnerships at employer@uwindsor.ca.
This article is part of a series celebrating excellence in experiential learning. Co-operative Education and Workplace Partnerships selected Rising Star Award recipients whose stories will inspire future co-op students throughout the 2025/26 school year.