TAMKO's Summer Engineering Interns: A Glimpse into the Future of Manufacturing

GALENA, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jul 31, 2024--

What if your summer job was not only a stepping stone to your future career but also a place where you found joy, fulfillment, and camaraderie? For the summer interns at TAMKO, a leading independent American manufacturer of residential roofing shingles and waterproofing products, this is their reality. These aspiring engineers are not just learning valuable skills—they are experiencing the thrill of real-world problem solving in a supportive, family-like environment.

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Kynan DeSquare (left), summer engineering intern at TAMKO’s Dallas plant with one of his TAMKO mentor’s Lawrance Aguilar. (Photo: Business Wire)

“My favorite thing at TAMKO is the environment. The entire plant is like one big family. We come together to figure things out. It’s great,” said Kynan DeSquare, a TAMKO engineering intern at the company’s Dallas manufacturing plant.

This summer, TAMKO welcomed four exceptional engineering interns, each bringing their unique perspectives and enthusiasm to the company. These interns have immersed themselves in real-world engineering projects, gaining invaluable experience that will shape their future careers.

Kynan DeSquare: Embracing Innovation and TAMKO Culture

Kynan DeSquare, a fourth-year Electrical Engineering student at Texas A&M with a minor in Computer Information Systems, has spent his summer gaining firsthand experience at TAMKO’s Dallas facility. This summer marks Kynan’s third internship at TAMKO, and he could not be happier with his experience. “My best memory is learning to drive a forklift my first summer. My teammates were so patient with me and encouraged me all along the way until I felt confident,” he shared.

Kynan’s journey into engineering began at a young age. “I’ve always liked tech and taking things apart to put back together. In third grade, I decided I wanted to be an engineer,” he recalled. His hands-on experience at TAMKO, including working on electrical components and motors, has been both educational and enjoyable. “TAMKO teaches you a wide range of skills. When I get back to school this fall, I am ready to apply my knowledge to my upcoming senior project, which is a real advantage that I wouldn’t have otherwise.”

One of the biggest benefits for Kynan has been working close to home. “While I’m home in the summer, it’s great to be able to work in my neighborhood. My family is proud,” he added. Looking ahead, Kynan hopes to continue working at TAMKO full-time after graduation. “The environment here is unlike anything else that I’ve experienced. My co-workers have truly become like my family.”

Brayden Banks: Following in His Father’s Footsteps

Brayden Banks, a Mechanical Engineering major headed into his senior year at the University of Alabama, is no stranger to TAMKO. This is his second summer interning at the company’s Tuscaloosa plant, where his father is the Operations Manager. “Growing up, I saw my dad go to work and come home but never knew or understood much about what he actually did. Now, I see firsthand the impact he’s making,” Brayden shared.

This summer, Brayden tackled projects like designing updated permanent mounts for web guide eyes on a shingle production line – a project to improve the manufacturing process and lead to cost savings. “TAMKO’s trust in their interns is incredible. They throw you into real projects, and you get to contribute meaningfully,” he said.

Looking ahead, Brayden plans to stay in Alabama and continue being part of a successful and effective team, much like the one he enjoys working with at TAMKO. “I want to be part of an organization where I can grow and contribute. The environment and the support I receive here at TAMKO Tuscaloosa are beyond my expectations.”

Felipe Perez: A Passion for Cars and Engineering

Felipe Perez, an incoming sophomore Mechanical Engineering major at the University of Missouri, is experiencing his first internship with TAMKO’s Engineering & Construction team focusing primarily on projects at TAMKO’s Columbus, Kansas facility.

Hailing from Joplin, Missouri, Felipe’s interest in engineering is deeply rooted in his love for cars. “I’ve always been fascinated by cars and the science behind them. My cousin, who knows everything about cars, inspired me,” he said.

Felipe’s summer has been a whirlwind of learning, from using 3D modeling software like Autodesk Inventor to redesigning equipment components. “My supervisor Adam Stewart has been a great mentor guiding me through every challenge and making sure I understand the thought process behind engineering solutions,” Felipe noted. “He’s always there to help and makes sure that I’m comfortable asking anything, even when I ask basic questions.”

Grateful for the opportunity, Felipe believes this experience will give him a head start in his future career. “It’s amazing to see how a manufacturing environment works and to be part of it.”

Andrew Thompson: Recognizing Responsibility and Leadership

Andrew Thompson, entering his senior year as a Mechanical Engineering major with a minor in Robotics from the University of Maryland, has spent his summer at TAMKO’s Frederick, Maryland plant. This is Andrew’s second internship with TAMKO, where his father is the General Manager. “There’s a bit of pressure working where my dad is a leader, but it’s also a great learning experience,” he admitted.

Last summer, Andrew worked as an engineering intern in a spice factory and the experience was quite different. “The TAMKO team does such a phenomenal job of organizing people and resources. The work is never boring.”

This summer, Andrew focused on improving a shingle line front-end belt conveyor system, aiming to save costs and enhance efficiency. “The complexity of TAMKO’s operations is impressive. It’s a highly organized and challenging place to work, and the people here are fantastic,” he said. “Living with four other engineering students, I’ve realized the level of responsibility and importance of the work that I get to take on during my internship at TAMKO compared to less critical tasks interns may be doing at other places.”

Andrew’s goal is to find a job post-graduation where he can work in a good environment with a culture that aligns with his life goals. “I’ve had wonderful mentors here. The support and camaraderie at TAMKO have shown me the type of working environment that I want to strive toward,” he emphasized.

The Value of Summer Internships in Manufacturing

Summer internships in manufacturing provide students with practical experience, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world applications. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), internships are a critical factor in job offers and starting salaries for college graduates. In the manufacturing sector, internships help students understand the industry’s complexities and prepare them for future careers.

At TAMKO, the emphasis on hands-on experience, mentorship, and a supportive culture sets the stage for interns like Kynan, Brayden, Felipe, and Andrew to thrive. Their stories reflect the dedication and support TAMKO provides, fostering the next generation of engineers who will continue to innovate and drive the industry forward.

David Humphreys, TAMKO Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Internships at TAMKO are more than just summer jobs. We highly value the contributions these college students make, and their internships often serve as gateways to full-time employment. Many of our past interns have returned as full-time team members after graduation, continuing to drive innovation and excellence within the company.”

As these interns wrap up their summer, they carry with them not only technical skills but also a deep appreciation for teamwork, problem-solving, and the impact of their contributions. “While the pay for interns is fantastic, it’s the culture and the supportive atmosphere at TAMKO that make this experience truly rewarding and the hard work worthwhile,” said Kynan, capturing the sentiment shared by all the interns.

About TAMKO

In 2024, TAMKO celebrates 80 years in business. TAMKO is a leading independent manufacturer of residential roofing shingles and waterproofing products crafted with American pride. At TAMKO, the popular Heritage ® shingle series and Proline shingle series, featuring award-winning Titan XT ® and StormFighter FLEX ™, boast the best roofing colors on the market. Titan XT and StormFighter FLEX shingles are well-known for their impressive industry-first high-wind warranty up to 160 MPH. TAMKO products are further backed by a brand name recognized for its rich history, core values of honesty and integrity, quality products and processes, authority with building professionals, and support for its community. For more information about TAMKO, visit our website at www.tamko.com.

View source version on businesswire.com:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240731143243/en/

CONTACT: Kim Eckerman, TAMKO’s Corporate Director of Communications

kim_eckerman@tamko.com

(800) 641-4691, ext. 2360

KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA KANSAS

INDUSTRY KEYWORD: ARCHITECTURE CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY OTHER MANUFACTURING BUILDING SYSTEMS ENGINEERING OTHER CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY MANUFACTURING RESIDENTIAL BUILDING & REAL ESTATE

SOURCE: TAMKO

PUB: 07/31/2024 09:00 AM/DISC: 07/31/2024 09:00 AM

http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240731143243/en