With dreams of becoming a structural engineer, Ohio Northern University student Mollie Kinkead is engaged in an ideal internship at Jezerinac Geers & Associates in Dublin, Ohio.
Her mentor is ONU alumnus and Director of Operations Andy Heigley, BSCE ’99, who played a pivotal role in the construction of ONU’s state-of-the-art James Lehr Kennedy Engineering Building. Andy’s mentorship is a testament to ONU’s loyal alumni network and its dedication to helping fellow Polar Bears prepare for their future careers.
Andy’s summer assignment for Mollie? To absorb as much knowledge as she can through listening, observing, asking questions, and seeking answers.
“I am enjoying the opportunity to be curious every day,” Mollie says.
With a different topic or design focus each week, Mollie is maximizing her experience. She’s learning how to read structural drawings and decipher the acronyms and abbreviations used by engineers. She is practicing complex calculations, attending team meetings, and visiting job sites. One notable visit was to Astor Park, a new residential apartment complex being built next to the Columbus Crew's stadium with spectacular views of the city.
“Andy took me through the building from the foundation to the roof, explaining the structural systems and design,” says Mollie.
Her internship has given her a new appreciation for the practical application of the material she’s learned in her ONU classes. It’s also reinforced the truth that “it’s okay to be wrong or not know something, especially when everything is new.”
Mollie is grateful for the kindness and support she’s received, not only from Andy, but all the employees at Jezerinac Geers & Associates.
“This internship has shown me that structural engineering is challenging and complicated, which would make it a great fit for my career,” she says. “It’s made me see things differently, although I fear I won’t be able to go into a building without looking up at the trusses!”