In
2003 STEP (Students in Technology and Engineering at Packer)
was a seven week program designed to challenge high school
and college students in the field of engineering. The interns
chosen to participate worked as full time employees of Packer
Engineering in Naperville. A "work day" normally
consisted of guest lecturers, building, designing and testing projects,
research and billable, engineering work that a good intern
program would offer. Embedded in the program was a one week
ASM Materials' camp experience. Interns worked with other
high school students picked by ASM International to do a forensic
investigation into a failure analysis. They also did much
research into several special "Packer Projects"
including a pond study to design a retention pond on Packer
property and several national security issues.
Besides engineering other targeted areas for development include
teamwork, professionalism, communication, academics, critical
thinking, and hands-on mentoring. Guest speakers including
ex-State Representative MaryLou Cowlishaw and various
professionals at Packer Engineering helped to groom interns
into well-rounded professionals themselves. Various activities
and projects allow students to excel in the engineering field.
Areas of focus include:
At the
end of the summer program, each student made a presentation
to his/her peers and mentors detailing a specific project
or concept explored. A research paper was also done to explain
their experience.
It is hoped that this program can continue in the summer
of 2004 and beyond. Dr. Ken Packer has a goal and vision
that all local companies would take on interns. If we expect
much out of our high school and junior college students
they will meet and exceed expectations.
Take a look at the 2003 STEP Program interns, click
here.
