News & Insights
Coming back for round two: A Q&A with intern Luke Westerkamp
Luke Westerkamp reflects on the learning, growth, and experiences that defined his second Salas O'Brien internship.
Driven by a desire to challenge himself, Luke Westerkamp spent two summers as a power intern with our experts while pursuing electrical engineering at The Ohio State University. In this Q&A, he reflects on the experiences, relationships, and lessons that helped shape his professional growth.
As a returning intern, what made you want to come back?
The people were the biggest reason I wanted to come back. During my first internship, everyone was incredibly welcoming and willing to help. No one ever made me feel like my questions weren’t welcome, and my team always took the time to walk me through things and help me learn.
That kind of environment made a huge difference, and it made returning an easy decision.
What’s something you’ve learned on the job that wasn’t taught in the classroom?
One of the biggest things I’ve learned is the importance of the National Electrical Code, or NEC. Before my internship, I didn’t even know it existed. Now I understand how important it is because it’s really the foundation for designing safe electrical systems and something electrical engineers rely on every single day.
How have our people helped you grow professionally?
The people around me have always wanted me to succeed, and that’s something I’ve really appreciated. They’ve encouraged me to pursue certifications like the FE and PE, which are important for future engineers.
They’ve also given me advice beyond engineering. One of my coworkers even encouraged me to consider earning an MBA someday, and that conversation actually led me to add a business minor to my degree. Their guidance has had a big impact on how I think about my future.
What has been the biggest takeaway from your internship experience?
The biggest thing I’ve learned isn’t technical; it’s how much connections matter. I don’t think I realized I had it in me to build real relationships with people who weren’t my age or didn’t have a lot in common with me at first. But going through the internship and actually making meaningful connections ended up being one of the most fulfilling parts of the whole experience.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work and school?
I’ve played water polo since seventh grade, and I currently compete on the club team at The Ohio State University. More recently, I’ve started training in jiu-jitsu, and I’d love to get involved in mixed martial arts at some point in the future.