By Em Jankauski
Julian Summers-Doniver is one of seven recent BattChallenge to Stellantis hires. The now propulsion system emissions test engineer’s roots started as a student on the University of Michigan-Dearborn & Henry Ford College’s BattChallenge team. Let’s catch up with him in a fun Q&A.
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Q: You interned with Stellantis. What was your internship focused on, and how did it impact your career readiness?
A: “I interned in the same department that I am currently employed in PDT (Phonon Diagnostics Technique) Test Technologies as a wing engineer. I previously worked specifically with E-motors in the engine durability team, but now I am employed full time direct in the emission dyno testing for hybrid and ice engines.
“The internship was essential to understand the work environment and culture of the company, and it allowed me to easily work with and identify key mentors to continue progressing my knowledge in the space.”
Q: How did being involved in the BattChallenge prepare you for your role at Stellantis?
A: “It allowed me to understand the politics and communication skills required to work in a group of likeminded people.
“Working in a group of intelligent people can be difficult but equally rewarding if leadership is on board with a plan. A clear understanding of communication and industry relationships, such as suppliers and manufacturers, helped me see that the stakeholders on one part is large.”
Q: What made you want to work for Stellantis?
A: “The work environment and my departments passion for the vehicle systems we release.”
Q: What’s the coolest or most interesting part about working for Stellantis?
A: “Working within the CTC headquarters feels overwhelming at first, but once you know where and how to get around it’s almost like a castle that only whoever is allowed inside can roam.”
Q: How is the work you’re doing making a difference in our everyday lives?
A: “I’m currently working within the emissions development group in PDT.
“I am maintaining multiple dynamometer cells and being trained to complete certification tests for powertrain emissions certifications specifically for hybrid systems.
Q: What advice do you have for current BattChallengers?
A: “If you truly want to help the world move forward, understand what you are working with and the chance that was given to you. I was given that chance and took advantage of it. Now I work for one of the biggest car companies in the world providing accurate and future testing capabilities for the vehicle systems of the future!”
