Shanna Tierney (biomedical engineering)
Shanna Tierney (she/her) has her sights set on a career that combines healthcare and engineering. The biomedical engineering student and Vikes swim team athlete is spending two co-op terms doing just that—she’s working with the Victoria Hand Project as a biomedical systems co-op student.
The Victoria Hand Project provides affordable, upper limb prosthetics to people around the world. They work directly with recipients, providing ongoing support for in-country partners, establishing 3D printing centers in countries around the world, and supporting international partnerships with healthcare providers and prosthetic clinics.
Gaining experience in a range of areas
Shanna’s research and design experience has found a great fit with this local and diverse co-op. She is gaining engineering experience in developing and testing 3D printed parts. Shanna is gaining practical experience by developing testing protocols and using CAD software to implement design improvements based on testing and user feedback.
“I also continuously update manuals and design history files; diagnose, repair and maintain 3D printers, conduct research; and develop, test, and prototype assistive devices to enhance users' capabilities. In addition, I manage 30+ volunteers, inventory, and prosthetic hand assembly.”
Learning from inspiring mentors
In her co-op, Shanna works closely with a team which constantly shares their guidance and experience, which she greatly values.
“This co-op is helping me develop and advance my design and development skills so I can pursue a career in medical device and technology development,” she says. “Providing life-changing access to those in need of prosthetic devices is very fulfilling. It’s rewarding to use my engineering skills to positively impact peoples’ daily lives.”
The impact of co-op
This is Shanna’s third co-op work term and she’ll stay on with Victoria Hand Project to complete her fourth term this fall.
“Co-op is a great way to gain hands-on experience and mentorship while studying,” she says "it also helps build your professional portfolio and network which is extremely valuable."