Trenton Bullman is an experienced IACMI intern who spent back-to-back summers in 2018-2019 at 4X Technologies, LLC in Knoxville, TN, working on projects involving carbon fiber and advanced composite technologies.
Upon graduation in May 2019 from the University of Tennessee (UT), the aerospace engineer began his career as a full-time Composite Technical Track Engineer at GE Aviation. At GE Aviation, Batesville, MS, he is working on optimizing processes with leaner manufacturing techniques for the acoustic panels within the GE9X Engine Program.
At GE Aviation, Batesville, MS, he is working on solving technical composites manufacturing problems using root cause/corrective action methodologies and utilizing lean ideas to optimize processes and operations. Trenton has worked on the NPI (New Product Introduction) Team to deliver an efficient transition from research and development to a high rate production environment for the GE9X jet engine polymer matrix composite components.
While in school at UT, Trenton earned the Best Aerospace Senior Design Project award for a 100% Recycled Carbon Fiber Hovercraft from the UT Tickle Engineering College of Engineering. He attributed his experiences with providing him with the necessary tools to successfully interview and accept the job offer following his graduation.
When asked why he chose internships within the composites industry, Trenton replied, “I knew I wanted to learn more about composite materials because they are the future of the aerospace industry. By working with 4M and 4XTechnologies, not only did I learn more about composites, but I gained valuable insight into the daily tasks and time management of engineers in the workplace.”
Trenton is actively pursuing his MS degree in materials engineering with a concentration in advanced composites from the University of Dayton.
4M Project Manager and Design Engineer Jonathan Ford had no doubt that Trenton would be quick to find his start with a challenging and engaging career. He said, “Trenton has proven himself willing to learn and take on every challenge we put in front of him. Given his great attitude and desire to succeed, I knew Trenton will be a great asset to GE’s composites program”
IACMI Workforce Manager Joannie Harmon said she and IACMI are ecstatic for Trenton and the continued impact his work is having on the composites industry.
“At the heart of the IACMI internship program is the students’ hands-on engagement and exposure to advanced composites while also gaining professional, real-world experiences with IACMI member organizations and industry-related events,” Harmon said.
IACMI and 4X, a company that studies the integration of atmospheric plasma into industrial processes, are proud to have helped launch Trenton’s career.
4M and 4X Technologies knows a thing or two about high-quality performance by IACMI interns and the positive impact the interns have on the careers of future technology leaders. In partnership with the IACMI internship program, 4M and 4X Technologies has hosted eight interns since 2016.