In this spotlight, we spoke with James Gibson, Director of Mechanical Engineering and Ashley Knowles, Employee Experience Manager at 4AG Robotics. 4AG Robotics build robots that pick, trim and pack mushrooms to help farmers tackle labour costs and availability while consistently delivering great quality, yield and value.
What kinds of opportunities and experiences do you offer to co-op students?
At 4AG Robotics, we believe in fostering an environment of continuous learning and growth. We offer co-op students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects in the robotics and automation fields, gaining hands-on experience in both design and practical applications. Our employees and co-op students benefit from mentorship by senior engineers, exposure to industry-leading technologies, and the chance to collaborate across disciplines.
We support professional development through regular feedback, career growth discussions, and opportunities to attend relevant conferences or workshops. Additionally, our collaborative and innovative team culture encourages knowledge sharing, which helps everyone stay at the forefront of industry advancements. We also offer opportunities to travel and work with our robot systems in various farms across the world.
What qualities or skills do you look for when hiring a co-op student?
When hiring co-op students, we look for candidates who are proactive, adaptable, and have a strong foundation in engineering principles. We value problem-solving abilities, a hands-on attitude, and the ability to work well in a team setting.
Technical skills such as proficiency in CAD software (Onshape) and experience with automation, robotics, or programming languages (e.g., Python, C++) are highly desirable. We also appreciate students who demonstrate strong communication skills and a willingness to learn. As we work in a fast-paced, innovative environment, the ability to thrive under pressure and contribute to multiple aspects of a project is a key attribute we look for.
How do UBC co-op students make an impact at your company?
UBC co-op students make a significant impact at 4AG Robotics by contributing to various stages of product development, from design to prototyping and testing. For example, students have worked on projects involving mechanical design optimization, sensor integration for automated systems, and improving the efficiency of our robotics in agricultural applications like mushroom harvesting.
One notable success involved a co-op student who developed a novel sensor calibration system that greatly improved the accuracy of our harvesters, resulting in a more efficient production line. Students also contribute to our internal systems by improving workflows, writing technical documentation, and collaborating on problem-solving for ongoing projects.
What advice would you give to students interested in joining 4AG Robotics?
For students interested in joining 4AG Robotics, we recommend taking a hands-on approach to learning and building practical experience in engineering. Focus on strengthening your CAD skills and understanding of mechanical design principles, as well as programming for robotics and automation. Having a solid understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of engineering will help you succeed. In interviews, be prepared to discuss how you approach problem-solving, your ability to work as part of a team, and any relevant projects or experiences you've had. We look for candidates who are not only technically capable, but also show enthusiasm for learning, adapting, and contributing to innovative solutions in the robotics industry. Participating in school design teams or working on engineering projects in their spare time is highly valued. Be ready to demonstrate your passion for the field and your willingness to take on new challenges!
At 4AG, our culture is a huge part of who we are. We're all about pushing boundaries and trying bold ideas. Achieve the Improbable isn't just tagline, it's something we aim for every day. Things move fast here, so being able to Think Fast and make decisions on the fly is key. We look for people who step up, take ownership, and fix problems without waiting to be asked.
We Are Mushroom Farmers. That means we stay grounded and practical, with a deep respect for the people using our robots. If you care about solving real problems for real people, you'll fit right in. We're looking for people who are passionate, adaptable, and ready to learn. If that sounds like you, we can't wait to meet you.
