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Summer Internships: Jeffrey Podhorez

Ferris State University students gain valuable work experience through internships. Internships also can confirm or redirect career decision-making, provide marketability, develop people skills and enhance classroom learning. Many academic programs require one, but the experience is encouraged regardless to provide students with a better understanding of what will be expected of them in the workplace.

Many students are participating in myriad internships this summer. Meet:

PhotoJeffrey Podhorez

Jeffrey Podhorez

He is: a senior in Welding Engineering Technology from Midland. Jeffrey is interning with Autokiniton, a Holland-based global automotive component supplier.

His Internship/How Jeffrey is Making A Difference: “Much of my focus has been on problem-solving issues with industrial robots. These programmable robots complete specific tasks. I have learned how to fix errors in robot programs and use some of my direct welding skills. This makes a difference for others who are using these robots in production. I hope I have fixed problems quickly so that they can get back to work. I have learned so much, and I am grateful for all the people there, who have been supportive and great instructors for me this summer.”

How Ferris Helped Jeffrey Prepare for his Internship: “From the time I arrived at Ferris, professors were talking to me about and guiding me toward an internship. Last fall, I attended a virtual career and internship fair. I had the opportunity to speak to several different companies at the fair. This allowed me to share my own goals with them and ask questions about their specific workplace and decide what might be the best fit for me. I followed this up with a zoom interview, where I could meet more members of the company. During this time, my professors provided guidance and counsel.” 

Other Activities on Campus: “I have been a member of Phi Sigma Kappa for three years and a member of the American Welding Society at Ferris State. I enjoy playing my saxophone. I would like to share that I have a learning disability called Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). This makes it difficult for me to understand and process verbal information. However, this has not kept me from success at Ferris, and I look forward to a successful career. I want to encourage others who might struggle with similar issues to understand that all things are possible and that they can reach all of their own goals.”

Future Plans: I hope to have the opportunity to work in the automotive or aerospace industry. This internship positioned me very well to understand what opportunities exist and has provided me an outstanding practical experience.”

MEET THE INTERNS HOMEPAGE