Intern spotlight: Joey Malecki, Koch and Company
"I really enjoyed working with the environmental health and safety leader there so I think that is a field I would enjoy working in myself. Saving the planet and people feels very rewarding to me."
Name: Joey Malecki
Major: Chemical Engineering (minor in business/chemistry)
University: Kansas State University
What company did you work with this summer?
Koch and Company, a cabinet manufacturing company in Seneca Kansas
What was your favorite project to work on? Why?
The compressed air leak survey, as I was able to explore all of the plants and get to know some of the workers there. The air leak device makes you look like a ghostbuster so it definitely draws some questions. It was also fascinating seeing the potential savings both economically and environmentally from fixing the leaks.
Biggest challenge during your internship?
Breaking the ice with the people I was working with. As an introvert, it is already hard for me to meet new people especially when they already know each other from living in a small town. Luckily everyone was very friendly and this was not a very difficult challenge in the end.
What was a project/recommendation you gave that you think could make the most impact for the company if implemented?
Installing a solvent distiller. Not only will this save them plenty of money, but it is critical help so that they can stay much more comfortably within their permit regulations
What was your biggest takeaway from the experience?
Some people can be stubborn to change, it's all about how you present it to them.
What are your future career/education plans?
I really enjoyed working with the environmental health and safety leader there so I think that is a field I would enjoy working in myself. Saving the planet and people feels very rewarding to me.
Any other thoughts?
It was a very rewarding experience, but I'm glad I don't have to wake up at 6 AM and drive an hour to work anymore!
You can read Joey's full case summary here or watch the presentation of his findings.