Vector AUTOSAR

While trying to find stuff to work on, one of my professors mentioned Vector's free AUTOSAR certification program. I figured it was worth a shot so I applied and got accepted for the week of June 23-June 27.

For those unfamiliar, AUTOSAR is basically the standard that lets different automotive software components work together - think of it as the common language that allows a BMW's engine control unit to talk to its transmission controller.

After this week, I gained hands-on experience with Vector's premier software (DaVinci Configurator, DaVinci Developer, and CANoe) and learned about the AUTOSAR or MICROSAR ( Vector's implementation of AUTOSAR). The program covered everything from AUTOSAR fundamentals to practical implementation - OS architecture, communication protocols, and diagnostic systems.

The labs with DaVinci Configurator and Developer were eye-opening - I got to configure virtual ECUs and watch software components communicate in real-time. Understanding the communication stack was initially challenging, but it became clearer when I saw it running in CANoe's simulation. Our main exercise involved programming 3-4 ECUs to handle scenarios like door opening/closing and how it affects the car's lighting system. Watching these interactions play out in CANoe really demonstrated how interconnected modern automotive systems are.

I also had the chance to network with industry professionals, while onsite at the Vector training facility in Novi, MI. Beyond sharing insights about how AUTOSAR is actually implemented in production vehicles, they offered some valuable perspectives on autonomous driving technology. While AI may outperform distracted drivers, human judgment remains superior for complex decision-making scenarios. The conversations also touched on the legal questions surrounding self-driving cars - when an accident occurs, who bears responsibility? The AI developers, the car manufacturer, or someone else entirely? These discussions highlighted the complex ethical and legal landscape that the automotive industry is still navigating as autonomous technology advances.

I recently took the exam online and passed, earning my CEA certification. This program gave me practical skills I can actually discuss in interviews, and honestly, it made me more excited about automotive software development. Now I'm applying this knowledge as I continue job hunting in the automotive industry.