Karaline Scott, a Wichita State electrical engineering sophomore, is currently interning for Professional Engineering Consultants. As a power and process division intern her tasks are focused on AutoCAD software, reading diagrams and schematics used in real world electrical systems.
Scott has also learned how to read construction documents and how to handle client relationships on the job. Her experience also includes learning standard details and company standards. All creating her engineering foundation.
“These are all skills that would be necessary to use in professional fields of engineering, no matter the specific concentration,” Scott said.
As a freshman, Scott had trouble envisioning herself as an electrical engineer. These concerns initiated her internship search at the Shocker Career Accelerator’s Engineering & I.T. Career Fair. Her resume was workshopped by the College of Engineering’s Wallace Scholars beforehand, with her upper-level math and physics classes highlighted.
At the fair, she met representatives of Professional Engineering Consultants, Power Team and an interview was later arranged. Before her interview, Scott’s resume was finalized by the Shocker Career Accelerator.
Encouraged by many and with the resources from the Shocker Career Accelerator, College of Engineering and Engineering Student Success Center, Scott applied, was interviewed for the position, and was offered the internship.
“I feel more prepared than ever to take on my next level of courses and have a renewed sense of excitement for the professional world,” Scott said.
Scott’s advised by professional staff on the many possible pathways regarding post-baccalaureate plans, licensure and careers in consulting and research and design engineering.
“Hearing my supervisor's personal experiences as well as the other young professionals on my team has been extremely helpful in ultimately deciding what to do after graduation,” Scott said.
As an intern, Scott’s not only learning about possible pathways, but also about work culture.
Professionalism is embedded in her internship program with many company initiatives. Events like lunch with the CEO, intern buddy program, The Office Olympics and an annual company picnic create the perfect learning environment for interns like Scott.
“Professional Engineering Consultants have included and invited interns into the company culture, and it truly feels like a family,” Scott said.
Now as a sophomore, Scott’s confidence leads her future pursuits.
“I’ve renewed my confidence in my ability to pursue a career in engineering. I’ve grown and developed my skills during this first experience in the professional workforce,” Scott said.
Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.
For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.
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