Utilizing the Motivation Behind the New Workforce to Build a Successful Internship Program through Purpose Driven Work

Over the past five years, the demand for engineers has surged across public and private sectors. Yet, recent graduates and early-career engineers often favor private roles, overlooking the contributions of public sector engineering. In response, the South Platte Renew (SPR) Engineering Division initiated an intern program to bridge this gap and highlight the rewards of public sector work. The SPR Engineering Intern Program aims to broaden budding engineers' horizons, providing hands-on experience in real-world problems within the public sector. The program emphasizes the Owner's viewpoint, addressing fiscal responsibility, direct impacts on waterways, political drivers, and purpose-driven leadership. Crafted over three to four months, the internship allows students to explore operations, facility maintenance, construction inspection, project management, and the multifaceted nature of engineering roles. The methodology involves insights from former interns, workshops aligning needs, and strategic scheduling connected to SPR's Vision, Mission, and Values. The internship includes technical projects, communication-focused activities, and emphasizes professionalism. Feedback sessions and dialogues with recent graduates contribute to continuous improvement, ensuring the program meets interns' expectations. To boost interns' profiles, the program includes resume-building opportunities. This not only enhances immediate job prospects but empowers interns to navigate future careers successfully. Training sessions cover treatment, communications, safety, and construction practices, aligning with SPR's specific needs. The program's success is evident in tangible job placements within the water renewal sector, addressing the need for new talent as professionals retire. The growth in interns and partnerships with universities signify the program's positive reputation. The internship's strategic alignment with SPR's mission ensures lasting contributions. Interns engage in tasks beyond the internship, such as asset management data analysis, construction inspection, and sustainability analyses, aligning with SPR's long-term goals. In the broader context, the SPR Engineering Division's internship program serves as a model for integrating academia and industry, addressing the growing demand for engineering talent in the public sector. The program's evolution reflects adaptability, ensuring continuous improvement in shaping the next generation of engineers. Looking ahead, the SPR team aims to refine and expand the internship program. By fostering partnerships, enhancing the curriculum, and incorporating feedback, SPR aims to sustain the positive impact of its internship initiative. The program not only contributes to individual engineers' growth but plays a pivotal role in advancing SPR's mission and vision. The SPR Engineering Intern Program serves as a beacon for integrating academia and industry, a catalyst for developing future engineers, and a testament to the enduring value of public sector contributions in engineering.