Profile
Ben Sykes

Engineer | Developer | Photographer

Passionate about solving complex problems and creating efficient systems.

               

About Me

I'm an electrical engineer passionate about problem-solving, technology innovation, and continuous learning. From a young age, I've been fascinated by how things work and how they can be improved. What excites me most about electrical engineering is the ability to make a tangible impact, whether optimizing industrial processes or developing innovative solutions.

I believe combining technical expertise with creativity is a powerful approach to tackling challenges from multiple angles. Whether designing control systems or coding personal projects, I enjoy connecting ideas to practical applications. For me, engineering isn't just about building things; it's about creating solutions that matter and push boundaries to improve everyday lives.

Currently, I'm seeking my first full-time role in automotive engineering. Before graduating in December 2025, I've gained hands-on experience in software development, manufacturing controls, system integration, and related fields, preparing me to contribute effectively from day one.

My Experience

Controls Engineering Intern

General Motors (Factory ZERO Plant) • Internship

May 2025 - Aug 2025 • 3 Months

Detroit, Michigan • On-site

  • Designed and implemented a PLC interlock system to enforce bolt rundown order during drive unit installation, reducing caster variation by 25% over a 73-vehicle trial.
  • Led in-house development of UI and integration software for a 12-camera 3D bead inspection system, collaborating with a contractor on the vision processing backend.
  • Built a custom JavaScript/HTML5 dashboard to correlate AI shim predictions with camber data, streamlining analysis across 300+ vehicles.
  • Resolved 60+ logged automation faults and supported plant systems using PLCs, HMIs, and embedded tools under GCCS standards.
  • Presented project outcomes and in-house solutions to mid- and senior-level plant leadership, emphasizing technical rigor and measurable quality improvements.
Undergraduate Teaching Assistant

Purdue University (ECE Department) • Part-time

Aug 2024 - May 2025 • 9 Months

West Lafayette, Indiana • On-site

  • Assist faculty by grading assignments and exams for sophomore-level ECE seminar courses, ensuring timely and consistent evaluation.
  • Provide support to students by clarifying course materials and fostering a positive learning environment.
Controls Engineering Intern

General Motors (Wentzville Assembly Plant) • Internship

May 2024 - Jul 2024 • 3 Months

Wentzville, Missouri • On-site

  • Engineered and deployed a 3-part system for monitoring chain conveyor take-up pressures, featuring a macro-enabled Excel tool to auto-extract PLC data.
  • Configured and trained AI-based camera systems to identify operator assembly errors.
  • Applied controls standards to implement PLC and HMI upgrades on the production floor.
  • Independently designed a Microsoft Access database to streamline personnel management, addressing a self-identified workflow gap.
  • Introduced a new plant-wide standard for personnel training and assignment tracking by collaborating directly with plant leaders.
  • Presented project outcomes and technical overviews to plant executives and leadership.
Honors Hall Student Office Staff

Purdue University (West Lafayette Campus) • Part-time

Jan 2024 - Apr 2024 • 4 Months

West Lafayette, Indiana • On-site

  • Supported residents and staff with front desk operations, including mail, key access, equipment checkouts, and move-in/out logistics.
  • Filled shift gaps as needed and assisted in other campus housing facilities during off-season periods.
  • Completed training to ensure compliance with Indiana residential safety and conduct standards.
Engineering Group Intern

Honda of America (Indiana Automotive Plant) • Internship

May 2023 - Aug 2023 • 4 Months

Greensburg, Indiana • On-site

  • Designed and installed a custom control circuit to cool vehicle surfaces post-oven, enhancing safety.
  • Upgraded the plant's AVEVA WonderWare data system
  • Implemented bespoke software tools for process data collection.
  • Gained experience with industrial protocols (EtherNet/IP, FINS) and systems (NE1S PLCs, NS10 PTs).
  • Completed lockout/tagout safety certification.
Data Systems Electrical Engineering Intern

Allison Transmission (Indiana HQ) • Internship

May 2022 - Aug 2022 • 4 Months

Indianapolis, Indiana • On-site

  • Sole developer of an internal tool suite for real-time sensor display and test parameter control in transmission testing. This internal suite is still in use as of December 2024.
  • Collaborated with supervisors to iterate and validate software across engineering teams.
  • Participated in the setup and maintenance of data acquisition systems and departmental tools.
  • Maintained detailed technical documentation for internal use and compliance
Seasonal Grounds Maintenance

City of East Grand Rapids, MI • Seasonal

May 2021 - Aug 2021 • 4 Months

East Grand Rapids, Michigan • On-site

  • Maintained all city landscape areas, nature trails, & irrigation systems.
  • Prepared & maintained all city & school athletic facilities.
  • Performed set-up & take-down of athletic equipment for practices & events.
  • Operated city vehicles & equipment.

My Approach

My approach to engineering and problem-solving revolves around my aforementioned combination of knowledge with creativity, alongside principles of collaboration and persistence. I believe that every new challenge presents an opportunity for me to learn and grow. When I encounter a problem, my first instinct is to pull it apart, find what makes it tick, and innovate it out of the way.

I am also a firm believer in the power of collaboration with everyday people. The best solutions to a problem can often come from a wide array of diverse perspectives, and by working alongside people who are passionate, driven, and unafraid to share their ideas, we can all thrive as a collective group. By exchanging knowledge and expertise, we can create better-engineered, more effective solutions that achieve something much greater than what any one person could do alone.

Ultimately, my personal and professional work is driven by a desire to contribute to something in the bigger scheme of it all. Whether I'm developing a new product, being mentored by (or mentoring) others, or improving systems, I strive to leave a positive impact on everything I touch.

My Education

Purdue University

Aug 2024 - Present

Undergraduate Student

  • Anticipating graduation in December 2025.
  • Prior resident in the Engineering in the World of Data Learning Community (2021 - 2022).
  • Pianist in various jazz bands (AMRE, LJB1, LJB2, CJB1).
  • Member and chairperson of the Purdue Chapter of the Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers Computer Society (IEEE CS).
East Grand Rapids High School

Aug 2017 - May 2021

High School Diploma

  • Achieved a final GPA of 3.8 and an ACT score of 32.
  • Graduated Magna Cum Laude.
  • Participated in the National Honor Society & Honors Science.
  • Completed electives in engineering, design/drafting, & AP computer science.
  • Completed 3 yrs of Latin/IB; Latin club member.
  • Member and electrical/programming lead of FRC (First Robotics Competition) team 5980, East Grand Rapids Robotics.

My Passions

As an engineer, I am passionate about utilizing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and good old automation to solve real-world problems. I'm always excited to explore how these trending concepts can be applied to improve processes, predict upcoming results, and possibly even help prevent critical errors before they happen.

I also have a deep interest in exercising sustainable engineering practices. With the world facing significant environmental and resource challenges, I've got an eye on new ways to explore how we can use innovation to create more efficient, environmentally-friendly solutions that can have a positive impact on both industry and our planet.

Outside of traditional engineering, I've always enjoyed tinkering with electronics and putting together side projects, whether it's a new device, piece of software, or a complex automation system. These personal projects allow me to solve life problems by testing new ideas, exploring new technologies, and staying curious, no matter where the world takes me.

Volunteer Work

Eagle Scout

Boy Scouts of America

  • Managed, fundraised & led Eagle project: Benches for the Humane Society of West Michigan.
  • Mentored new & incoming scouts; led patrol unit of six scouts.
  • Participated in & led community/conservation service projects; setup rotating family shelter.
  • Participated in unique outdoor activities such as EMS disaster simulation, wilderness survival.

My Vision

As I continue to grow as an engineer and as a person, I'm eager to explore new frontiers in manufacturing robotics, and automation. My goal is to eventually lead innovative projects that not only improve the overall efficiency of industries but also contribute to a more sustainable future that we can be excited to live in. I'm excited about the opportunity to work on projects that challenge my personal creativity and push my technical abilities to new limits.

In the long run, I aspire to take on intimate leadership roles where I can mentor the next generation of engineers and be part of the teams that create truly life-changing solutions. Whether it's within a large company or through a tight-knight startup venture, I hope to collaborate with all manner of diverse minds to bring big ideas to life.

Let's Connect

If you're interested in collaborating with me or just want to learn more about my personal and professional work, feel free to reach out. Whether it's an idea for a project, something to chat about, or engineering insights, I'd love to hear from you!

Contact Me