Engineering Internship: A Step In Right Direction?

T. Ananthapadmanabha Apr 18, 2019

Advancements in technology have ensured that engineers are going to have a strong role in the future. Engineering as a discipline is one that will always be in demand and would always be on the lookout for the best and brightest minds. The curriculum currently does not have scope for as much hands-on training. An internship allows a student to avail of an opportunity to explore the various fields of engineering while they understand where their passion lies. Engineering as a field that covers the various sectors, from artificial hearts to submarines, the choice is with the student where they would like to specialize.

Benefits of an Internship: It allows a student to secure practical experience on the job and also gain hands-on experience. The confidence that students gain during an internship shows through during job interviews, allowing a student to portray their learning and deeper understanding of the given field. Engineering is all about learning by doing.

Graduates with internship experience will generally find prospective employment easily with confidence. Internships are a proven way to gain the relevant knowledge, skills and experience while establishing vital connections in the field of engineering, science and technology. Volunteer experiences ensure candidates are more competitive in the job markets and is the best way to add that practical real-life experience. An internship is a temporary work placement. It is a platform to learn and implement one’s ideas in a creative way.

What is the internship you are looking for?

Engineering is relevant to every sector, be it the food industry, hospitality sector or even the film industry, an engineer is wanted everywhere. That being said, a student has numerous options to choose from, and it becomes critical for a student to narrow down his options based on the industry they would like to work in. The field of engineering they are pursuing must guide them to choose the type of internship they would like to pursue. Let us take the example of civil engineering, students can work for companies that offer services in relation to CAD drafting, laying of roads or construction of buildings and bridges.

Finding an Engineering Internship

A placement officer will be able to guide you on how and where you can apply. They will also be able to counsel you to comprehend where your aptitude in engineering lies. With their experience, they are also in a position to help you with the application process along with drafting a covering letter and coming up with an impressive yet professional resume.

Internships are, most often, not advertised externally; companies would rather prefer referrals. In such cases, it helps to contact the HR of companies directly via. a mail or on their board-lines. The official website of companies would have the contact information along with a brief on what the company stands for. Ensure you inquire about the application deadlines, and curate every covering letter with specifications for the particular company. The application and covering letter must express the candidate’s initiative along with examples of their tenacity at work. For better results, start searching six months prior to the date of joining to ensure you secure a good internship that backs quality learning.

Kind of Internship to take up

When it comes to an internship, the time spent certainly is considered and depending on the duration, different skills are gained.