Kayla Garrison, an engineering technology student, spent her summer as a Field Service Engineer Intern with Eaton Corporation.
She shares how her professional experience has made her more confident and how students should focus on networking to secure their next internship opportunity.
College of Engineering: What organization are you interning for this summer and what is your role?
Kayla Garrison: This summer I interned for Eaton as a Field Service Engineer Intern. Eaton is a global power management company that provides sustainable solutions to help customers manage electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical power more reliably, efficiently, safely, and sustainably. In my role, I assisted with maintaining and testing electrical distribution equipment such as switchgear, circuit breakers, and UPS systems. I was also involved in inventory and asset management projects, as well as on-site field work for major clients like data centers and industrial facilities.
COE: What does your average workday look like?
KG: My average workday as a Field Service Engineer Intern at Eaton started with reviewing the day’s schedule and completing a Job Safety Analysis (JSA) to assess risks before beginning any tasks. I typically spent time in the field working on electrical distribution equipment such as circuit breakers, switchgear, or UPS systems—this might include performing maintenance, troubleshooting issues, assisting with installations, or running tests like insulation resistance (meggers) or TMS checks.
COE: What do you enjoy the most about your internship?
KG: What I enjoyed most about my internship was the hands-on experience in the field—working directly with electrical distribution equipment like switchgear, UPS systems, and circuit breakers. I liked being able to apply classroom concepts to real-world situations and seeing how critical power systems keep large facilities and data centers running. I also really valued mentorship and teamwork, learning from experienced engineers and collaborating with other interns on projects like inventory and asset management. The combination of technical exposure and professional growth made the internship both rewarding and motivating for my future career.
COE: How did you learn about this internship opportunity and prepare for the application process?
KG: I heard about this opportunity during a conference for my organization, the National Society of Black Engineers. The way I prepared for my interview was just to learn about Eaton and being myself.
COE: How do you think you’ve grown as an engineer during your internship?
KG: During my internship, I’ve grown as an engineer by becoming more confident in applying technical knowledge to real-life situations and improving my ability to work hands on and think critically under pressure. I’ve also developed stronger safety awareness, learning how to approach every task with a safe mindset and follow industry standards. Beyond technical growth, I’ve sharpened my communication, collaboration and leadership skills —whether it’s working with senior engineers, explaining findings to customers, or coordinating with other interns. Altogether, this experience has made me more adaptable, detail-oriented, and prepared for future engineering challenges.
COE: What advice do you have for students trying to secure an internship or who may be starting an internship for the first time?
KG: My advice is to start early and create a good network such as career fairs, NSBE (other organizations), and LinkedIn can open doors. Don’t stress if your first internship isn’t your dream role; every experience builds skills and connections. When it comes to professionals: ask questions, take initiative, and stay professional, showing eagerness to learn makes a big impression. Remember It's not where you start, it's where you finish.