Valerie Karana

Electrical Engineering Student

Professional Summary

Motivated Electrical Engineering student at the University of Detroit Mercy with hands-on experience in robotics, automation, and embedded systems. Proven track record through internships at Walbridge and FANUC, demonstrating strong technical skills in PWM systems, microcontroller programming, and circuit design. Active leader in campus organizations with excellent communication and teamwork abilities. Seeking full-time opportunities in robotics and automation engineering.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

University of Detroit Mercy

Expected May 2026

GPA: 3.57/4.0

Relevant Coursework: Digital Logic Design, Circuit Analysis, Signals & Systems, Control Theory, Embedded Systems, Power Electronics, Technical Writing

Professional Experience

Engineering and Science Ambassador

University of Detroit Mercy

Aug 2025 – Present
  • Represents the College of Engineering and Science by showcasing projects during tours and outreach events
  • Chaperones robotics competitions and assists students during IDRAW and other community STEM events

Engineering Intern

FANUC America Corporation

Summer 2024
  • Assisted in programming and testing industrial robotics systems for automotive manufacturing applications
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and optimize robotic automation processes
  • Documented technical procedures and created user guides for robot control systems
  • Gained hands-on experience with PLC programming and industrial control interfaces

Electrical Engineering Intern

Walbridge

Summer 2023
  • Supported electrical design and installation for commercial construction projects
  • Reviewed electrical drawings and specifications using AutoCAD to ensure code compliance
  • Conducted site inspections and quality control assessments for electrical systems
  • Communicated effectively with contractors, engineers, and project managers

Leadership & Involvement

Treasurer

Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

Managing chapter finances, organizing professional development events, and supporting women in engineering careers

Vice President

Club Pickleball

Leading club activities, coordinating tournaments, and building community through recreational sports

SEED Scholar

University of Detroit Mercy

Selected for prestigious scholarship program recognizing academic achievement and commitment to sustainable engineering development

Technical Skills

Programming

  • C/C++
  • Python
  • MATLAB
  • Verilog/VHDL

Hardware & Systems

  • PWM Control
  • ADC/DAC
  • Microcontrollers
  • Arduino/Raspberry Pi

Software Tools

  • Vivado
  • LTSpice
  • AutoCAD
  • Simulink

Robotics

  • Robot Programming
  • Servo Control
  • Sensor Integration
  • Autonomous Systems

Engineering

  • Circuit Design
  • PCB Layout
  • Power Systems
  • Signal Processing

Soft Skills

  • Technical Writing
  • Team Collaboration
  • Project Management
  • Problem Solving

Featured Projects

Autonomous Robot Navigation System

Designed and programmed autonomous robot with sensor fusion and path planning algorithms

PWM-Controlled Lissajous Servo System

Digital logic project implementing PWM control for servo motors to generate Lissajous patterns

Audio Equalizer Circuit

Analog circuit design with active filters for multi-band audio frequency adjustment