When an online shopper places an order on Amazon, a complex system kicks into gear behind the scenes, speeding the product to its recipient as quickly and efficiently as possible.
This summer, Florida Polytechnic University senior Megan Demeritt is getting an inside look at those operations while helping make them even better as an area manager intern with the e-commerce giant.
“Amazon is known for its operational efficiency and commitment to customers,” said Demeritt, an industrial engineering major from Sunrise, Florida. “I was excited for the opportunity to learn how one of the world’s largest companies manages its operations and continuously improves its processes.”
The internship is centered in the pack department at the Amazon fulfillment center in Lakeland, Florida, where customer orders are moved by conveyor to associates who scan, package and prepare items for shipment. Once packaged, the boxes continue through the conveyor system to the ship dock for distribution.
Demeritt is leading three process-improvement projects during her internship. One focused on high-volume machines, while the other two are within the Amazon Fulfillment Engine, the company’s proprietary sorting and packing technology.
“I’ve been most surprised by the level of responsibility I was given,” Demeritt said. “My projects are designed to make meaningful improvements to the operation. It’s been so rewarding to see my manager trust me with work that has a measurable impact on the business.”
During the internship, she has shadowed area managers, attended daily operations meetings and participated in period-end sync meetings, gaining firsthand experience with leadership, operations management and continuous improvement.
The experience has been a positive one with a lasting impact, she said.
“While I was nervous at first, everyone has been incredibly welcoming and supportive,” said Demeritt, who serves as president of Florida Poly’s chapter of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers. “I know the leadership, analytical and problem-solving skills I am developing during this internship will benefit me throughout my career.”
The effects are already noticeable as she prepares for graduation and professional future.
“I’ve built valuable connections within the operations industry while gaining hands-on leadership and project management experience,” Demeritt said. “The projects I’ve completed give me great examples to discuss during interviews, making me more confident and excited to begin my career.”
Contact:
Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
