WIL Success Spotlight
Tues, Feb 1, 2022
Harry Cotaras
Program of Study: Bachelor of Industrial Design
Work Placement: Soheil Mosun Limited
Where did you do your work placement?
I did my work placement at Soheil Mosun during the summer of 2021. Soheil Mosun Ltd. is a custom architectural manufacturer of grand staircases, public monuments & art and elevator interiors. While they primarily focus on metal fabrication, the finishing details, installation of projects, and project management, they are not afraid to take on new challenges for clients.
What were some of the most important things you learned during your placement, and why were they so important?
The most important thing I learned while at Soheil Mosun Ltd. was teamwork. That is not to say I did not practice being an active team member well beforehand, but rather, it was a reminder that we cannot do everything on our own. Working as a team gives much greater results than just working by yourself, and communication between team members is huge.
The second most important thing I learned was understanding the fabrication process and getting a feel for the methods used to make things, as I had the opportunity to work alongside skilled fabricators. For example, I helped with a large private development on Halifax, Nova Scotia’s harbour titled Queen’s Marque. The scale of Queen’s Marque is huge! Soheil Mosun has been shipping products out to Halifax for nearly three years now - the entire development is cladded in brass patinated panels. The panels could range from a few feet wide to 12 feet. We also worked on the interiors of elevators and public art displays surrounding the building. The scale and scope of the project is something I take pride in being a part of.
What advice would you give to other students who will soon be participating in their mandatory work placement?
I would advise students to have an open mind. Be curious with any and all opportunities that come your way. Send out as many emails and applications as you can, and most of the time companies will graciously give you their time. Create your own opportunities. I believe that with this mindset you will always be able to make the best of any work and situation life puts you in. You will also be able to learn more and it will show your employer that you are interested!
What advice would you give to students interested in pursuing a career in Industrial Design?
For incoming students who are interested in Industrial Design, and perhaps maybe more the manufacturing side of it, I would suggest getting your hands dirty! Work in a workshop, understand the workflow of manufacturing a product, how to ship it safely (an often overlooked, but a very important part) and all the small challenges that need to be overcome to get a product on site or on shelves. You may not want to be working in a workshop as your career, but it will certainly open your eyes to a new perspective and the information and experience you gather will be invaluable.
