Enstrom Interns Explore Bright Futures in Aerospace
Students at area high schools and colleges capped off a summer internship season full of learning, discovery, and one-of-a-kind experiences with Enstrom Helicopter Corporation.
Six talented interns dove headfirst into learning the ins and outs of what makes an Enstrom fly.
Director of Finance and Human Resources Charles Rowell said, “We view this program as an opportunity to mentor the next generation of aerospace engineers. These interns brought a youthful energy to Enstrom, showcasing a real tenacity to learn, and offering a fresh-faced perspective.”
Rowell added that programs like this are a fantastic tool for talent retention, incentivizing these bright young minds to stay close to home rather than leaving for opportunities elsewhere.
Caden Genrich is a Marinette High School graduate currently studying at Michigan Tech. He heard about the program through several upperclassmen, and he fully intends to spread the word about how beneficial Enstrom’s internship opportunities can be. As one of the three engineering interns, Caden spent his summer in both the experimental and manufacturing departments.
Joining Caden as engineer interns were Tyler Engel and Andrew Goodrich, who both attend Lake Superior State University. Tyler spent his time developing Solid Works blueprints and CAD models, which he says taught him time management and communication skills. Andrew worked in the blade shop, learning oven control system development and avionics fault assessment.
Alec Timper, who just graduated from Marinette High School, found his home in Enstrom’s maintenance department. He helped by painting, weeding, and building office equipment – but his favorite tasks involved operating the floor Zamboni. He’s now studying at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, where he will pursue a degree in teaching.
In the product support department, you could find Marinette High School graduates Grace Holguin and Chaz Rowell. Grace began her internship helping photograph and catalogue products, but later found opportunities to job shadow welders, evaluate safety datasheets, and update relevant binders. Chaz was a tremendous help in updating the parts catalogue. Thanks to his hard work, customers will have an easier time referencing and identifying the precise parts they’re looking for.
Multiple interns shared that they felt valued by Enstrom’s full-time team members, never once believing they couldn’t make meaningful contributions toward completing a task or improving a process.
While this summer’s internship program lasted only for a season, company leaders are currently collaborating with students from Menominee High School in the hopes of reshaping these internships into a year-long experience. Any students interested in learning more about future internship opportunities should visit Enstrom’s website or call (906) 863-1200 ext. 114.
About Enstrom Helicopter
From Rudy Enstrom’s early designs in 1943 to initial testing in a Michigan Quarry in 1957 to aircraft operating on six continents, Enstrom Helicopter Corporation has maintained a reputation for safety, value and performance. Based in Menominee, Michigan and proudly made in the United States, Enstrom has a rich history for design innovation. The goal is to provide helicopters to the customer’s exact specification and deliver support and maintenance worldwide.