THE SDSMT-IIE TIMES SDSM&T CHAPTER 956
Meeting Announcements
1
Alumni Feature 1
President’s Message 2
Chapter Activity Report
3
Membership Report 4
Professional Development Article
4
Conference 5
Member Activity Report
5
Student Corner 5
Chapter Officers 6
Laser Engraving Fundraiser
6
Riddle of the Month 6
Special Thanks 6
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
6 Dec 6pm
SWE & IIE Game Night IE Building 520 Kansas City St.
8 Dec 3-5pm
Dr. Kellogg’s annual Christmas Party
18 Dec Last day of Fall Semester
13 Jan First day of Spring Semester
EPTEMBER 2013 NEWSLETTER
Upcoming IIE & SWE Game Night
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 3 PAGE 1
Alumni Feature: Daniel Stanton
I’m Daniel Stanton with a B.S. Civil Engineering, 2001 from SDSM&T. Also, I received an MBA in 2006 from NAU and M. Eng. In 2008 from MIT. I am also a 6 Sigma Black Belt, and hold CSCP and SCPro certifications. I Work for Caterpillar Inc. as the Assurance of Delivery Leader. I work with manufacturing plants and suppliers around the world to ensure that material flows smoothly through our global supply chain. Much of my work involves understanding risk and how disruptions can impact our entire supply chain. Identifying vulnerabilities and mitigating disruptions requires me to work with people of different backgrounds and expertise from all around the world. It is both challenging and rewarding, and I learn new things every day.
Article Continues on next page
IIE NEWSLETTER—NOVEMBER 2013—SDSM&T CHAPTER 956
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 3 PAGE 2
Continuation from page 1, Alumni Corner: Daniel Stanton
Hey everyone! The fall semester might be winding down, but IIE members have still been busy with meetings and events. We had alum Paul Elder from Strider Sports Int’l speak about his experiences since graduation, and he also spoke about what he wish he had known before graduating. Earlier in November, Cody Kopriva also presented about his co-op with Polaris Industries.
For fundraising, IIE added a snack bar in the project office. Burrito Friday was brought back for a second consecutive month and will remain a staple throughout the next semester as well. With the semester quickly coming to a close, a December fundraiser may not happen, but the IIE board has a school-wide dodgeball tournament planned for the spring semester. Stay tuned to the announcements for more detail on this event early next semester!
On December 6th, IIE and SWE will be jointly hosting a Game Night at the IE building on 520 Kansas City St. from 6-9pm. Video games, board games, and drinks will all be provided, and Dr. Jensen’s wife will be cooking the food for this event. Everybody is invited to this event, and feel free to bring your friends!
Lastly, the annual IE Christmas Party will be hosted at Dr. Kellogg’s house on Sunday, December 8th from 3-5pm. Food, sweets, and drinks will all be provided, and walking tacos are also on the menu for this event.
Thanks to everyone who participated in all of our events this past month, and please let me know if you have any ideas or suggestions to improve our student chapter. Remember to email us at [email protected] if you have any questions, and like us on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SdsmtIIE. Good luck on the upcoming exams, and enjoy the holidays!
Benjamin Johnson, IIE President
Getting our supply chain right is the key to taking care of
Caterpillar's dealers and our customers. I'm fascinated with supply
chain management, and I really think that Caterpillar has one of
the most interesting supply chains in the world. In my five years at
Caterpillar I've had three jobs and have worked on dozens of
projects. The two things that I really like are the ability to make
improvements that make a really big difference, and an
environment where there is always a new challenge or business
opportunity waiting right around the corner.
My advice to students is to take the time while you are in
school to learn about supply chain management. This is the new
language of business, and there is a growing demand for
professionals who understand how to align logistics, purchasing,
and operations to maximize profitability for the firm.
President’s Message
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 SEPTEMBER 2013 PAGE 3
IIE NEWSLETTER—NOVEMBER 2013—SDSM&T CHAPTER 956
Chapter Activity Report
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 3 PAGE 3
Greetings from the IIE Crew! With a busy
semester winding down to an end, we’re growing
more excited for the upcoming semester where we
host the IIE regional conference!
We’ve been busy working on community
projects (like the fence painting at Dr. Karlin’s
house) and we are seeking more community
involvement projects with other professional
organization. Thanks to all the IIE members and
their friends for completing the fence in the
temperamental South Dakota weather!
Recently, IIE members, who are also involved in
SWE, went to the National conference in Baltimore,
where it was demonstrated the importance of
conferences. Conferences are a great way to
increase your professional network and knowledge.
In the upcoming pages, see an article about what
was learned about working and communicating
between four different generations. (Page 4)
IIE and SWE are hosting a game night at the IE
building to increase cross-disciplinary activities as
well de-stress before the holidays. Party is on Dec
6th, 6pm.
IIE has also hosted another successful burrito
sale. All mini events such as these are used to
increase the variety snacks in the Project office.
Our latest contributions are the community hot
weather burner and the coffee pot. Everyone’s
welcome to coffee if you start bringing some
coffee, filters, sugar, etc...!
Lastly, special thanks to Cody Kopriva and Paul
Elder. Cody Kopriva, graduating senior, spent some
time at our IIE meeting discussing his co-op
experience with Polaris and Paul Elder spent some
time discussing his experiences since graduating in
2001. Thank you, gentlemen, for all the great input!
Our laser engraving project is ongoing and we look forward to helping you
make specialized gifts for you and your family! (Page 6)
We hope your semester is going well and we look forward to more activities
in the upcoming months!
Kristy Rennick, IIE Communications Chair
IIE Members painting the fence at Dr. Karlin’s House for donation
Above, Left to Right, Andrea-Marie
Babbs, Cassie Kulesa, and Kristy
Rennick at the SWE National
Conference in Balitmore, Oct 2013.
Cody Kopriva, Graduating
Senior in IE/EM
IIE NEWSLETTER—NOVEMBER 2013—SDSM&T CHAPTER 956
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 3 PAGE 4
Professional Development: Communication Across Four Generations
Membership Report
The SDSM&T IIE Chapter would like to personally welcome the
following new recruits: Kaitlyn Mahlik & Kelsey Barth. Thank you both for your interest and participation in the events of the
chapter, it is a great opportunity to network with peers and develop your professional skills. Take some time to look into the
chapter events and look for opportunities to help out your fellow
students and organization, as it is a great chance for personal growth! If there are any questions about where or how to sign
up, contact Cody Kopriva at [email protected] for further information. Thanks again Kaitlyn and Kelsey!
Today’s workplace is made up of employees from four
generations. Each generation has their own expectations and preferences from their work environment. communication at work has changed
significantly and not everyone wants to be communicate the same. We should strive to understand the communication preferences of each generation.
Building your awareness of these generational preferences will allow
Traditionalists were born before 1946, age 64 and
over. Many of the communication preferences that traditionalists were raised with still exist today. They
prefer a more formal style of communication. While traditionalists do utilize technology for work purposes, they
still prefer communication to take place face-to-face, over
the phone or through conventional mail systems. Some tips include:
When setting up meetings contact them directly via
phone or through their administrative assistant After a meeting, leave a hard copy of information and
ask how they would prefer that you follow-up
Send them hand written notes
Keep presentations more formal, with limited amount
of flash
Avoid the use of acronyms, slang and foul language.
Baby Boomers were born between the years of 1946 to 1964, ages 45-63. The television came along during this
generation and the way information was received took on
a new meaning. This generation has certainly embraced the use of technology for communication purposes but
when surveyed, they still prefer face-to-face. Baby Boomers are very relationship and team oriented. It’s
important to take time to establish rapport and show a
personal interest in them. Some tips include: Make presentations more of a conversation and less of
a speech
If you are selling a product or service, link it to the
business mission and impact on people
Allow plenty of time for questions and collaboration
Solicit their opinion, ask for their input/ input from
stakeholders; Use phone or email to set up meetings, follow-up
Gen Xers were born during the years of 1965 to 1981 and
are currently age 28-44. The advancement of the personal computer in the early 80’s ushered in the technology
boom. Independent and self motivated Gen Xers have a more informal approach to communication and tend to rely
heavily on the use of email. They also have a more direct
style and like to get down to business quickly. Some tips include:
Be direct and straightforward
Show respect for their time, avoid too much small talk
When presenting, start with the bottom line. Tell
them up front what you need or expect from them
Do your homework and be well prepared
Ask for their preference on moving forward.
Gen Y was born during the years of 1982 to 2000 and is currently age 9-27. The internet was born with them and
information is now available 24/7. The primary mode of communication for Gen Y is instant and through the use of
technology. They have cell phones, text messaging,
instant messaging and blogs. They have taken the concept of networking to a whole new level with social
websites. Some tips include: Take a positive, collaborative approach
Ask for their ideas and input;
Avoid treating them as a child or inexperienced
Utilize technology as much as possible.
Article credited to Kim Huggins of KHR Solutions. Original
article can be found at by internet searching for
“Communicating Across Generations: What You Need to Know” from May 05, 2009 at www.khrsolutions.com
Junior Kelsey Barth Junior Kaitlyn Mahlik
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 SEPTEMBER 2013 PAGE 4
IIE Regional Conference News—Volunteer and Registration
REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR 2014 CONFERENCE!
Current Cost to attend is as follows:
Early Bird Registration: $50 Faculty and Student Registration: $60
Paper Competition Presenters will receive a $15 refund!
If you’re interested in volunteering, there are numerous
options available. Contact Terry or Katy for more info.
To volunteer or ask questions regarding donations, sponsorship or general inquiries should be directed
to: Katy Ramsbacher [email protected]
or Terry Nguyen ([email protected])
IIE NEWSLETTER—NOVEMBER 2013—SDSM&T CHAPTER 956
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 3 PAGE 5
RAPID CITY IIE REGIONAL CONFERENCE 2014 March 6th through 8th, 2014 South Dakota School of Mines & Technology
REGISTRATION INFORMATION AT http://www.sdsmt.edu/conferences/IIE-Regional/ Or follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SDSMTIIEConf
Member Activity Report
My name is Anne Christensen and I will be graduating in December of 2014
with a degree in Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management. I am also pursuing a Mathematics minor and Six Sigma Greenbelt Certificate.
I had a co-op with Goodrich (now UTC Aerospace Systems) in Jamestown, ND, May through December 2012. I was a Supplier Quality co-op working with 180
suppliers, and I also did a lot of work in Receiving Inspection. In Summer of 2013, I
was a Process Specialist Intern at the Aerostar division of Raven Industries in Sioux Falls, SD. I worked with the Process Development Team writing processes for the
production floor. Goodrich, I had a lot of smaller projects like developing metrics in Excel,
inspecting and rejecting parts in Receiving Inspection, working on First Articles with new suppliers, and participating in Continuous Improvement events. At Raven
Aerostar, my major project was implementing a preventive maintenance program at
all Aerostar plants. When I worked at Goodrich, I enjoyed being able to see how one plant fits
into a much larger, global company. It was the first time I had gotten a taste of a manufacturing facility and continuous improvement events. I loved working at Raven Aerostar this summer; the people were amazing to work with and I liked
seeing all of the different projects going on. I miss going to work every day!
My advice for underclassman is to always take a chance applying and interviewing for jobs. Even if you don’t get an offer or don’t accept an offer, you walk away being more experienced at interviewing. The right opportunity will
come along and then you’ll nail the interview!
Congratulations are in order to Rebecca Dressler and Kelsey Barth for their
entrance into Order of Omega. Order of Omega is a leadership honor society for members of Fraternity & Sorority organizations. Order of Omega recognizes
juniors and seniors who have exemplified high standards in the areas of scholarship, leadership, involvement within their respective organization and
within the Fraternity/Sorority, campus, and local community. Members are
selected from the top 3% of students at each institution. To date, over 500 chapters have been chartered throughout North America, each sharing the
common goal of recognizing the many outstanding student leaders at their institution.
Student Corner: Anne Christensen
Junior’s Rebecca Dressler and Kelsey Barth
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 3 PAGE 6
IIE NEWSLETTER—NOVEMBER 2013—SDSM&T CHAPTER 956
IIE Board Members are
offering all SDSM&T
students and faculty an
opportunity to purchase
customized glasses and
steins using the IIE
laser engraver. $10 for
a glass or stein with a
single logo*, and an
additional $5 for
customized text.
Chapter Officers
2013-2014 Officers President: Benjamin Johnson Vice President: Zach Boyd Secretary: Kelcy Schaunaman Membership Chair: Cody Kopriva Treasurer: Jeff Wientjes Fundraiser Chair: Brianna Dodge Communications Chair & Newsletter Editor: Kristy Rennick To get your story featured, contact Kristy at [email protected]
www.facebook.com/SdsmtIIE
IIE Laser Engraving Fundraiser
Contact any board member if interested or email
[email protected] *More logos are available & price negotiable for bulk orders.
Riddles of the month:
What goes around the world but stays in a corner?
I have holes in my top and bottom, my left and right, and in the middle. But I still hold water. What am I?
Submit answers to [email protected]
Each correct answer is one entry into the drawing! Prizes range from a free IIE T-shirt or laser engraved stein/mug! One winner monthly will be
chosen randomnly. Previous entries will remain in the pot for subsequent monthly drawings.
Last Month’s Riddle:
What gets wetter and wetter the more it dries? A towel
What can you catch but not throw? A cold
October’s random winner is Jeff Wientjes!
All previous correct responders are still in the running for next months drawing!
Riddles of the Month
A special thanks to Paul Elder From Strider International in Rapid City
for coming out to talking to his alma mater. Paul graduated in 2001,
was the IIE president, and had some great insight for current students.
Summarized advice from “what I wish I knew before graduating” was
the following: if you want to stay relevant, then you have to get good
at problem solving; keep your resume updated via annual alarm clock
reminder, because you never know when you’ll need it; get involved
and meet people— get into cross disciplinary team or several; make a
professional network and keep it active.
Special Thanks to Paul Elder
Paul Elder, Inventory and Control
Manager, of Strider Bikes