The 40 Year Old Intern: A New Adventure
Life supposedly begins at 40, and in my case, it's opened the door to a thrilling career transformation. Trading my supervisor's apron at Bunnings for an intern badge at BMW Group is like swapping the everyday for a rollercoaster ride. This move has seen me exchange the routine of Brisbane for the wild adventure that is Industrial Design at the BMW Group in Munich.
Despite being 16,000km from my home, my wife, and my 21-year-old cat (who's nearly as old as my flatmates!), along with the challenges of settling into a new country, Munich has given me a warm welcome. I've found myself immersed in Bavarian culture, steeped in history and traditions that make even the oldest Aussie pub seem like a newbie. The efficient public transport and beer gardens have been a delightful novelty. With a 49 Euro ticket granting unlimited travel across Germany, weekend getaways have become the norm. From exploring fortresses in Salzburg to hiking in Tegernsee, and marvelling at the magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle, the experiences have been priceless.
Inside the bustling ecosystem of BMW's Logistics and Robotics department, I'm not your typical intern. Instead, I stand as a 40-year-old problem solver, innovator, and aspiring industrial designer. I’m making headway in captivating projects, harnessing innovative technology like the HoloLens 2 and robotic arms while also navigating the high-tech world of Nvidia's Omniverse. Mastering new software initially felt like trying to wrangle a cyclone, but it's since become a thrilling voyage of continual learning and achievement. Throw in the post-lunch kicker game tradition, the gruelling CrossFit workouts after work, and my ability to impress colleagues with my 3D printing and laser cutting skills, and you've got an average day in my extraordinary life.
There's been a buzz around the plant this year, technically marking 101 years since the birth of the Munich BMW plant — Covid put a damper on the centenary. I'm really looking forward to the centenary celebrations kicking off in July, where one of my projects will be on display. Every day, we're privy to the magic of the BMW 3 Series line as it churns out a plethora of vehicles, including the iconic BMW M3. One of the most exhilarating experiences I've had so far at BMW was walking the assembly line at the plant. To be lucky enough to witness the intricacies of how various BMW cars are brought to life was nothing short of brilliant. Imagine a space buzzing with robotic arms, welding car chassis with pinpoint precision. Then you're striding along the assembly conveyor, observing the complex dance of different procedures, from the intricate threading of wiring to rigorous quality control checks. This immersive journey offers a real glimpse into the marvel of engineering it takes to create a BMW. This iconic car manufacturing process makes one appreciate the sheer complexity of crafting each and every BMW vehicle.
The journey from Australia to Germany has been more than just a physical transition; it's been a full-blown lifestyle overhaul. Tossed into the whirlwind of a new culture, I initially grappled with language barriers and navigated the nuances of Bavarian traditions. The professional shift from a supervisor at Bunnings to an intern at BMW was akin to learning to walk again, but I've embraced this beginner’s journey, transforming every stumble into a stepping stone. Now, with the patience of a designer honing his craft, and the backing of my supervisors, Daniel and Firas, as well as my rock, my wife, Carley, I’ve been able to thrive amidst these changes.
In this personal and professional metamorphosis, I’ve discovered an untapped reservoir of resilience within me. Whether it’s grasping the intricacies of the German language, savouring the unique flavours of Bavarian cuisine, or overcoming the challenges in mastering cutting-edge technology, I’ve learned that every hurdle is a gateway to growth. As for the future? My eyes are set on bringing this global perspective and newfound knowledge back to Australia. I envision myself either as part of a dynamic design consultancy or contributing as an in-house designer, infusing projects with a unique blend of design thinking nurtured in Munich. Armed with a suitcase of fresh skills and a reignited passion for design, I am excited to explore opportunities with companies that appreciate the dash of maturity and worldly perspective I bring to the table. I may have left as a supervisor from Bunnings, but I'll return as a problem-solver, innovator, and a designer enriched by an extraordinary journey.
For now, you can find me in Munich, soaking up the experiences and challenges that BMW throws my way, from working out with mates at CrossFit Munich, enjoying the sun-drenched English Garden with a Radler in hand, or swimming in the Isar. From attending ice hockey matches to daytime raves, and cycling in this beautifully flat city, Munich has become a playground of experiences. For all the mature-age students and career shifters out there, remember it's never too late for a new adventure. From one 40-year-old intern to another, cheers!
Benjamin Cornelissen
BMW Group Intern (Logistics Innovation & Robotics) 2023
