Chase Hilgeman Headshot

Mechanical Engineering Student

Junior mechanical engineering student with hands-on co-op experience and over two years of CAD utilization.[cite: 1] Proficient in PTC Creo, Autodesk Inventor, and AutoCAD, with basic programming skills in Python and MATLAB.[cite: 1] Eager to apply practical design, prototyping, and technical problem-solving skills to a summer internship.[cite: 1]

Education: B.S. Mechanical Engineering, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Rapid City, South Dakota (Expected 05/2028).[cite: 1] Cumulative GPA: 3.092.[cite: 2]

Work Experience & Projects

Manufacturing / Process Engineering Co-op

Daktronics, Inc. | Sioux Falls, SD
01/2026 – 08/2026[cite: 1]
  • Utilized AutoCAD to create, update, and manage layouts for factory areas.[cite: 1]
  • Implemented lean manufacturing principles to optimize production processes.[cite: 1]
  • Conducted 3D modeling in PTC Creo to enhance operator safety and ergonomics.[cite: 1]
  • Worked hands-on to build, test, and modify prototypes and floor equipment.[cite: 1]

Harness Layout Optimization Project

Academic / Professional Project
  • Worked directly on the assembly floor alongside operators to learn the process firsthand.[cite: 1]
  • Updated and logged existing equipment into AutoCAD to establish an accurate baseline before starting new designs.[cite: 1]
  • Developed and drew new factory floor layouts in AutoCAD focused on increasing throughput, reducing excess motion, and minimizing operator wait times.[cite: 1]
  • Pitched the final layout proposals to the engineering group, area supervisors, and factory manager.[cite: 1]

Dairy Clerk

Hy-Vee, Inc. | Sioux Falls, SD
07/2021 – Present[cite: 1]
  • Executed unloading of freight, organized products, and managed inventory and invoices.[cite: 1]
  • Restocked merchandise and removed expired items to maintain product quality.[cite: 1]
  • Delivered exceptional customer service while adhering to food safety guidelines.[cite: 1]
  • Assumed managerial responsibilities for several weeks during summer 2024.[cite: 1]

Additional Activities

  • Actively participate in the SDM intramural football league during the fall.[cite: 1]
  • Trainee of the South Dakota Mines Baja team.[cite: 1]
  • Built and currently maintain a Linux home media server for automated file management and remote access.[cite: 1]

Credentials & Recommendations

Official Resume

Comprehensive summary detailing mechanical engineering coursework, technical skills, and professional experience.[cite: 1]

View Resume (PDF)

College Transcript

Official academic transcript demonstrating 87.00 completed credits and a 3.092 cumulative GPA at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.[cite: 2]

View Transcript (PDF)

Recommendation: Daktronics

From Mike Hulscher, Sr. Mechanical Process Engineer: "Chase has shown clear potential to grow into a highly capable engineer."[cite: 3]

View Letter (PDF)

Recommendation: Hy-Vee

From Joe Schoenfelder, Manager of Dairy: "Chase's attention to detail and strong work ethic makes him an invaluable asset to our team."[cite: 4]

View Letter (PDF)

Connect With Me

I am actively seeking mechanical engineering internship opportunities.

Email Me Call: (605) 201-1573