Co-op Student Spotlight

 

Merritt Blum


Industrial & Systems Engineering
Economic & Financial Systems

5+ Year

 

1.) What company have you co-oped with? 

Chick-fil-A

2.) What were some exciting assignments you worked on?

During my time in the Digital Transformation & Technology department, I worked as a software engineer, technical product owner, and business analyst, streamlining data processes and programs in food safety and non-traditional restaurant spaces. I designed a digital reporting tool analyzing food safety data for 9,500+ restaurants, implemented a digital assessment platform for 400+ locations, and led a large-scale data migration to enable reporting for non-traditional restaurants. These projects leveraged my technical expertise, cross-departmental collaboration, and Georgia Tech coursework, resulting in improved operational efficiency and an extended part-time opportunity post co-op.

3.) What was your favorite thing about the co-op?

My favorite part of the co-op was the opportunity to collaborate with incredible people across various departments and build strong professional relationships. I especially enjoyed traveling to different locations across the country to meet operators firsthand, gaining valuable insights into their operations and seeing the impact of our work in real time.

4.) What are your future plans and how did your co-op influence them?

Following my graduation in December, I will be joining Alvarez & Marsal as a full-time Analyst in their Corporate Performance Improvement practice. My co-op experience played a significant role in shaping my future by strengthening my business acumen, enhancing my technical skills, and emphasizing the importance of being action-oriented. These lessons not only prepared me for my career but also helped me grow as a student, colleague, and professional, laying a strong foundation for success in my next role.

 

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