- Internship Overview
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In the summer of 2023, I embarked on my first internship outside of school, joining Moss & Associates as a Project Engineer Intern. They offered me the position toward the end of the school year, and I didn’t think twice before accepting. Looking back, I’m incredibly glad I did.
Based in the Florida Panhandle, I was introduced to a new solar panel site and welcomed into a fantastic team. From the very beginning, I felt a strong connection with my colleagues, and I was pleasantly surprised by how warm and welcoming the work environment was. Everyone seemed genuinely happy to be there, and after just a few months, I understood why.
Moss & Associates has cultivated a company culture that prioritizes employee well-being, creating a positive and collaborative atmosphere. They truly understand that happy employees lead to excellent and safe work outcomes. This experience not only improved my technical skills but also gave me a deeper appreciation for the importance of a supportive and engaging workplace. It set a strong foundation for my professional growth and left me with lasting memories of an incredible team and environment.
- Responsabilities
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Project management is all about effective communication and understanding the needs of the team. Fieldwork always takes priority, and it’s the project engineer’s job to make life as easy as possible for the crew.
Our office, located inside a construction trailer, was shared by me and two site project engineers. One of my key responsibilities was updating the POD (Plan of the Day) every morning to keep the project on track. I also managed and categorized deliveries—from water and ice to metal parts—and kept detailed records for efficient tracking.
I oversaw and organized on-site utility vehicles, such as buggies and lifts, ensuring regular safety inspections. Additionally, I conducted SWPPP (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan) inspections weekly or after heavy rains to maintain compliance and safety standards. You can tell by now how crucial safety is in the construction industry!
As the site’s only intern, I often took on various tasks across departments, from mechanical to electrical, civil, and safety. This cross-departmental collaboration was an incredible learning experience, allowing me to contribute broadly and gain a well-rounded understanding of the whole site’s operations.
Florida life and team connections
It was my first time in Florida, and initially, I was a little apprehensive about living in the small town of DeFuniak Springs. However, I quickly discovered how relatively close it is to amazing places like Destin and Santa Rosa, both located right on the beach. At work, I made friends who shared great recommendations for things to do in the area, such as visiting the Air Force Armament Museum in Fort Walton or enjoying the lively atmosphere at McGuire’s Irish Pub in Destin. I came to appreciate how beautiful the state of Florida truly is, and I can’t wait for the opportunity to return.