Rodriguez, who is currently a product engineer and commu- nications co-chair for NGC ADELANTE, a Hispanic networking group for Northrop Grumman employees, adds, “I cannot thank my employer, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, enough for giving me the opportunity to come in as an intern. It has allowed me to learn about the aerospace industry. The experiences with different programs, the incredible people I’ve met, and the opportunities to advance my career are second to none.”


Heidi A. Fedak, a corporate communications manager at Gulf- stream Aerospace Corporation, agrees. “With a market that is often flooded with recent graduates seeking entry-level job opportunities, an internship helps stu- dents set themselves apart from the rest of the pack. Students grow during an intern- ship, gaining confidence, communication techniques, and flexibility. The list goes on.”


Prior to graduation, Raul A. Monreal III ob- tained an internship with General Dynam- ics C4 Systems. Like many seniors who take part in an internship program, he had a job to go to following graduation from Arizona State University in 1995 with a bachelor’s degree in computer science/engineering. Moving rapidly up the technical ladder, Raul has worked on various engineering assignments ensuring that state of the art technology is delivered to the battlefield in support of American soldiers. He is currently the engineering section manager for the battle command applications engineering department with approximately 130 direct reports that include a number of interns.


As an organization, Gulfstream Aerospace recognizes the importance of developing future talent.


“Internships allow us to inject fresh ideas into our work force, while at the same time imbuing students with the skills they’ll need to be successful,” Fedak says. “And they give us an opportunity to work closely with educational institutions across the country to ensure they’re teaching the classes that will best prepare their students for careers in our industry. It’s a tremendous chance to exchange ideas, have a dialogue and ensure we’re doing everything we can to shape the talent we’ll need in the future.”


Sandra Kim, a communications lead at The MITRE Corporation, says because of the diversity of the work that MITRE does, they hire a range of students from high school to


www.hispanicengineer.com


the Ph.D. level. “The top three majors we hire for internships are computer science, computer engineering, and electrical engineering. We often look for students that have technical aptitude, eagerness to learn, sound skills, and interest,” says Kim.


Tera Martinez, manager, university relations at Texas Instru- ments, says TI looks for three things in interns: Specific skill sets (per function), GPA requirements (a minimum cumulative 3.0), and cultural fit—teamwork skills, independent thinking, and creativity.


Monreal says a few things stand out as he searches for interns


WhaT


SkILLS DO STUDENTS NEED TO gET aN INTERNShIp?


r Students actively enrolled and earning degrees in the STEM industry’s main fields. Top majors are computer science, computer engineering, and electrical engineering.


r Solid academic performance in science, technology, engineering or math. Grade point average requirements: Minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA


r A resume that relates to the candidate’s curriculum and addresses the internship that is being sought.


r Experience with the following is especially desired: • Java, C#, C++, Matlab, HTML, Visual Basic • Understanding of enterprise frameworks J2EE, .NET • Familiarity with Windows, Linux, Mac, and UNIX operating systems; security; information assurance; cryptography; electronics (VHDL, Verilog, ASICs, FPGAs, embedded hard- ware and software, circuit design, antenna design), digital signal processing; GPS; software-defined y; communica- tion (wired and wireless); and network protocols.


r Work experiences that draw attention to unique abilities and accomplishments.


r Involvement in student groups and the community. Active membership and leadership related to associations and societies including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), and the Mexican American Engineers and Scientists (MAES). Many of the activities experienced as part of these organizations help build professional connections.


r Cultural fit: Students who can work well in a team environ- ment and add value by bringing in a different perspective. Technical aptitude, eagerness to learn, sound skills, and interest are valued. Communication skills, personality, follow- through and professionalism, in-depth knowledge of com- pany and its products are also pivotal to success.


r Independent thinking, curiosity, creativity and innovation. HISPANIC ENGINEER & Information Technology | 2010 HISPANIC ENGINEER & Information Technology | 2010 9 9


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