Intern Spotlight: Sam Christopherson
School/Degree: University of Wisconsin–Madison | Major in Biomedical Engineering and Computer Science
Internship: Test & Automation Intern
Sam is from Prior Lake, Minnesota and recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, majoring in both biomedical engineering and computer science. Outside of work, Sam enjoys competitive powerlifting, spending time on the boat, and bartending part-time, where he recently created a popular summer specialty drink for his restaurant.
Building a Career Through Hands-On Work
When asked what stood out most to him about the company, Sam said, “I was drawn to Design Ready Controls because it gives me the opportunity to be hands-on and physically make things.” While at UW–Madison, he participated in a capstone program that partnered students with real clients to complete project-based work, an experience that felt similar to the practical, team-driven work happening at Design Ready Controls. With interests in coding, CAD modeling, soldering, circuitry, and 3D printing, Sam was excited to find a role where he could build, test, troubleshoot, and see his ideas take shape.
Turning Machine Data Into Actionable Insights
In his internship, Sam supports projects that track and visualize operating data from production equipment across the facility, including Komax machines and the laser cutter. He enjoys the variety that comes with the role, sharing, “Each machine operates differently, requiring a tailored approach. It has been really rewarding to develop processes that supports each operation effectively.” Sam’s work includes turning complex machine data into a practical production-floor tool. Sam is combining his interests in circuit design, embedded software, CAD modeling, and 3D printing. His goal is to build a centralized, digestible system that helps users quickly understand how machines are operating and where attention may be needed.
Learning Through Innovation and Iteration
A major part of Sam’s experience has been learning through trial and error. Whether he is refining a circuit design or improving a 3D-printed component, he values the opportunity to test ideas, learn from setbacks, and make improvements along the way. Sam explains, “Not all of my 3D prints worked the first time, but each redesign helped me improve. I like being able to create something, get feedback from the team, and keep making it better.” That mindset connects closely with the Design Ready Controls value that stands out most to Sam: Innovation. He shares, “I love how there is always something to improve, you get the opportunity to mess up a little and then learn from your mistakes, so you can do it better the next time around.” For Sam, the ability to solve challenges differently, apply lessons from previous attempts, and continually improve a process has made the internship a strong fit for his curiosity and drive to keep learning.
Guidance That Makes an Impact
Sam has also valued the opportunity to work alongside Manufacturing and Automation Engineering Manager Mark Fujitake. He shares, “It’s been really cool being able to work with Mark, you can tell he knows his stuff. He has great insights and seeing how he works through different problems we’ve come across has been awesome.” Through this mentorship, Sam has gained a stronger understanding of real-world problem-solving and the value of practical, straightforward guidance.
Turning Interests Into a Career
Looking ahead, Sam hopes to continue in a full-time role that combines Test and Automation and his interest in the medical-device industry. He enjoys work that is hands-on and collaborative, where engineering goes beyond the computer screen and directly supports meaningful improvements on the production floor.