Fabrication Designer (Detailer) – Mercer International
I have been working as a Fabrication Designer at Mercer Mass Timber in Vancouver, a company that focuses on sustainable construction using mass timber materials such as Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glulam. During my co-op term, I was responsible for creating 3D models of building structures and converting them into 2D shop drawings used in the actual fabrication process. It was exciting to see how digital design plays a direct role in real-world construction, and this hands-on experience helped me better understand the connection between design and manufacturing. I was able to apply what I learned in school about engineered wood, and it was especially rewarding to see how those academic concepts are used in industry to build sustainable structures.
What made this experience even more meaningful for me was my long-time interest in environmental sustainability. I have always been concerned about the impact of carbon emissions on our planet, and through this co-op, I was able to explore how eco-friendly materials like CLT and Glulam can reduce the carbon footprint of construction. Visualizing entire buildings in 3D before they are built helped me gain a new perspective on sustainable architecture and the role design plays in creating greener cities.
This co-op gave me more than just technical skills-it gave me clarity about my career path and the kind of work I want to pursue in the future. Being part of the mass timber industry showed me the importance of innovation in sustainable building practices. I believe co-op is one of the best opportunities for students to grow both professionally and personally.