When I first interviewed at Carpenter Marty Transportation I didn’t realize how interesting my internship here would be. Lets just say I have learned quite a lot in my short three months as an intern at Carpenter Marty Transportation!

During my three-month internship, I gained hands-on experience in transportation engineering and explored OpenRoads Designer software. I worked on diverse projects like Armour Creek, Underwood Bridge, and fieldwork for Route 19. In this blog post, I’ll share the highlights and invaluable lessons from my internship journey.

1. Immersed in Transportation Engineering: From day one, I was immersed in the dynamic world of transportation engineering. Working alongside seasoned professionals, I got to witness how theory and practical knowledge intertwine to deliver efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. The team was highly supportive, encouraging me to apply my academic knowledge to real-world challenges.

2. Exploring OpenRoads Designer: OpenRoads Designer proved to be an indispensable tool in our transportation projects. I was amazed by its versatility and ease of use for designing roads, bridges, and highway systems. The software enabled us to create intricate 3D models, perform complex analyses, and visualize the impact of different design options. My mentor patiently guided me through its functionalities, helping me gain confidence in its application.

3. Armour Creek and Underwood Bridge Projects: Two significant projects. On Armour Creek, I conducted extensive research, analyses, and proposed solutions for safety and traffic flow. On the Underwood Bridge project, I learned the importance of attention to detail in ensuring large-scale infrastructure success.

4. Field Work on Route 19: The final month of my internship brought a change of pace as I delved into fieldwork. My task was to inventory signs on Route 19, a crucial aspect of maintaining safe roadways. This experience allowed me to witness firsthand the practical implications of transportation engineering decisions and the importance of accurate data collection.

5. Communication and Teamwork: Throughout my internship, I realized the significance of effective communication and teamwork. In a professional setting, collaborating with colleagues, listening to feedback, and presenting ideas coherently are essential skills that I developed. Working as part of a team helped me appreciate the collective effort needed to achieve project goals successfully.

6. Personal and Professional Growth: The three months at Carpenter Marty Transportation were transformative for my personal and professional growth. I gained confidence in my abilities as an aspiring transportation engineer and learned the value of adaptability in a fast-paced industry. Facing challenges during my internship pushed me beyond my comfort zone, ultimately making me more resilient and resourceful.

My internship at Carpenter Marty Transportation was an unforgettable journey, providing me with invaluable experiences and knowledge that will undoubtedly shape my future career. Each aspect of my internship (immersing myself in transportation engineering principles, mastering the OpenRoads Designer software, contributing to major projects, and conducting fieldwork) contributed to my growth and understanding of the industry. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity and excited to carry the lessons learned forward in my pursuit of becoming a successful transportation engineer.

Casey Skibbe

West Virginia University

Class of 2023