Powerful engines, hardtops and convertible muscle cars were all Corey Butler could think about growing up. The project engineer's fascination for the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro drove him toward a career in automotive. 

"I've always wanted to design a car," he said. "Mainly old cars – that's what got me into engineering."

As an industrial engineering student at Clemson University, Corey had the opportunity to co-op with DRӒXLMAIER in 2017.

"I was so nervous because the facility was massive," he said about his time as a production project co-op student at the Duncan, S.C., plant site. "I didn't know what I was getting myself into."

Pushing new projects to the next stage became a norm for Corey and a great experience that eased him into his full-time position after graduation.

"I learned how to prioritize tasks and manage my time wisely," he said. 

As a pre-series engineer, Corey is responsible for overseeing the production launch of a new carline project. 

Behind system solutions and innovative implementations are engineers like him, who expand the company’s market presence through coordination and communication. 

What makes you a perfect job candidate for this role?

Even under pressure, I'm a very calm person. This helps me in my current position because, in a sense, I set the tone for the project. If I'm panicking or nervous, that will transcend to others. But if I remain calm, I can help people overcome obstacles to keep the project going in the right direction.

What is one of the most essential tasks you do daily?

A lot of cross-functional collaboration because I need to develop a sustainable and effective plan throughout a project.

What advice would you give someone who is beginning their career?

You have to be patient because the knowledge doesn't come immediately.