During his summer internship at Metcar, Tucker Salazar had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in engineering. In a recent interview, he shared his motivations for joining the program and how the experience shaped his professional aspirations. From conducting lab tests to tackling challenging projects, Tucker got a firsthand look at the day-to-day life of an engineer, supported by insightful mentorship. His time at Metcar reaffirmed his passion for mechanical engineering and revealed unexpected insights about working in the field. Read on to discover his journey and what stood out most during his internship!
What motivated you to spend your summer at Metcar?
I wanted to work at Metcar to understand how a large corporation operates and functions, allowing me to gain a comprehensive grasp of how big businesses work.
What were some of the projects you worked on during your internship?
I primarily focused on lab testing for raw materials, new blends, and finished parts. Additionally, I assisted with waste disposal by tagging barrels and helped with the silver impregnation process.
Was there a particular project or task that you found most challenging or rewarding?
I found the finished part tests most rewarding because I learned the most from them and got to engage in activities outside my daily routine.
How has this internship influenced your career goals or academic interests?
This internship has deepened my desire to become a mechanical engineer by providing insight into the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of the profession.
Did you have any mentors at Metcar? If so, how did they contribute to your learning experience?
Michael, Zach, and Rob were great mentors, demonstrating the variety of tasks and responsibilities an engineer can have within a company.
What was the most surprising thing you learned about the industry or Metcar?
I was surprised to learn that Metcar produces significantly higher quality parts than its competitors, despite the industry being established for decades.
What did you enjoy most about working at Metcar?
I enjoyed seeing what it’s like to be an engineer at a company, which has only deepened my commitment to pursuing a career in engineering.
Is there anything you think Metcar could do to improve the internship experience for future interns?
No, I believe the internship experience was excellent.
