Encore Electric Interns Gain Hands-On Electrical Construction Skills and Industry Experience
August 22, 2023 – Lakewood, CO — Each summer, Encore Electric hosts a group of interns in a variety of roles, introducing them to the construction industry and the electrical trade through hands-on experience and mentorship from teammates across the organization. The internship program prioritizes giving interns the opportunity to work with projects in different stages, interact with different construction technology, systems, tasks, and roles, allowing the young professionals to make real contributions to Encore Electric projects.
“Some of my work has included daily site walks, writing RFI’s and submittals, navigating and logging new items in Bluebeam and Google Sheets, sending out weekly reports, and updating punch-list items as needed,” said Patrick Beecher, field engineer intern and Colorado State University student. “We also worked on a couple of takeoffs for new projects. The most valuable information I learned was how to communicate through email and in person to other trades and just general communication skills that are valuable on a jobsite.”
“The most valuable thing I have learned through this internship is what it is like to work at an office or a jobsite,” said Jason Van Dijk, field engineer intern and Colorado State University student. “School can teach you skills, but you need to know how to apply them in a professional capacity. This often includes collaboration and problem solving, which are often difficult to teach in an academic setting and is best learned via experience.”
While gaining these technical and professional skills, interns have had the chance to apply their knowledge in real time, contributing to multiple Encore Electric projects including data centers, stadiums, and resorts. Applying these skills gave the group knowledge that they will be able to take with them to their future careers and apply to any project they contribute to.
“The majority of my work has been estimating, but when I’m on site it usually consists of receptacle work or organization of parts,” said Riley McVay, electrical intern. “My biggest lesson that I’ve learned over this summer is to make sure to do work correctly the first time. This way it does not have to be redone a second time.”
Encore Electric is eager to have the opportunity to engage with future generations entering the construction industry, giving young construction professionals chance to build professional skills and find a career path that inspires them. As summer internships end, Encore Electric celebrates the work this intern class has accomplished and wishes them the best as they continue their careers with new experience under their belts.
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