Aspiring Engineers Gain Invaluable Insights Through Summer Internships

McNeese State University civil engineering students Francis Chukwuemeka, Brant Courville, and Tyler Tran seized the opportunity to lay the groundwork for their future careers during their summer internships. These ambitious individuals gained hands-on experience, developed essential skills, and uncovered valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their professional trajectories.

Unlocking the Potential of Tomorrow's Civil Engineering Leaders

Exploring the Frontiers of Infrastructure Consulting

Francis Chukwuemeka, a junior from Nigeria, interned at AECOM, a renowned infrastructure consulting firm, in Michigan. Chukwuemeka's internship experience was marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge, as he explained that asking questions in class helped him learn quickly during his time at the firm. "I gained valuable insight about my reason for pursuing civil engineering," he shared, underscoring the transformative impact of his internship on his professional aspirations.Chukwuemeka's internship allowed him to delve into the intricacies of infrastructure planning and design, equipping him with a deeper understanding of the industry's challenges and opportunities. By immersing himself in the day-to-day operations of a leading consulting firm, Chukwuemeka gained a unique perspective on the practical application of civil engineering principles, laying the foundation for his future success in the field.

Mastering the Art of Chemical Plant Operations

Brant Courville, a junior from Lake Charles, interned at LyondellBasell Industries, a global chemical company, at its venture site in Westlake. Courville's internship experience was marked by a deep dive into the inner workings of chemical plant operations, where he had the opportunity to collaborate with seasoned engineers and apply his problem-solving skills to tackle complex issues."The best part of the internship was working with and learning from the engineers and being at the site daily," Courville explained, highlighting the invaluable hands-on experience he gained. Through his internship, Courville developed a keen understanding of how chemical plants function, equipping him with the knowledge and expertise to navigate the industry's challenges with confidence.Courville's internship also taught him the importance of adaptability and collaboration in the engineering field. "Once you enter the real world, what matters most is the quality and progress of the project at hand," he said. "People excel in different areas, so reaching out for help is often an efficient and effective approach." This lesson in teamwork and communication will undoubtedly serve Courville well as he continues to hone his skills and advance his career.

Gaining Practical Experience in Civil Engineering

Tyler Tran, a junior from Lake Charles, interned at the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, where he had the opportunity to apply his civil engineering knowledge in a real-world setting. Tran's decision to major in civil engineering was influenced by his previous internship experience, where he discovered a passion for civil work.During his latest internship, Tran gained valuable work experience that will undoubtedly benefit him as he navigates the job market in the future. "I chose to major in civil engineering after landing a civil engineering internship and enjoying civil work," he explained, underscoring the transformative impact of hands-on experience on his academic and professional trajectory.Tran's internship allowed him to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application, equipping him with the skills and confidence needed to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. By immersing himself in the day-to-day operations of a local government agency, Tran gained a deeper understanding of the role civil engineers play in shaping the infrastructure and development of communities, further solidifying his commitment to the field.

Advice for Aspiring Civil Engineering Interns

Brant Courville, drawing from his own internship experience, encourages McNeese students to actively seek out internship opportunities. "Attend career fairs, actively seek out opportunities and make your resume stand out," Courville advised. "Employers often hire candidates with internship experience."Courville's internship not only helped him grow as an engineer but also provided him with valuable experience to advance his career path. "Not only has my internship helped me grow as an engineer, but it has also provided me experience to advance my career path," he said, underscoring the transformative impact of hands-on learning.The experiences of Chukwuemeka, Courville, and Tran serve as a testament to the power of internships in shaping the future of civil engineering. By immersing themselves in diverse industry settings, these students have gained a deeper understanding of the field, developed essential skills, and uncovered valuable insights that will undoubtedly propel them towards successful careers in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of civil engineering.