Kenneth Copeland (INROADS)
Civil Engineering
University of Florida
Expected graduation 2009
 “From the tour of Ridenour water treatment plant during my interview before joining JEA during the summer of 2004, I have seen how many people it takes to keep the lights on and the water running. Through my mentor, I was introduced to representatives from the Department of Environmental Protection which relates to the research, reporting and permitting that I do each day. Networking with engineers has helped sharpen my skills and enhanced my ability to create succinct reports.
The INROADS program focuses on the well rounded student. They not only give you the opportunity to learn the technical skills but teach you about business etiquette, public speaking, presentation skills, financial management and prepare you for leadership roles. The exposure I have had through the INROADS program gives me a leg up and will ease my transition from college to employment.”
Joachim Hartje
Mechanical Engineering
University of Florida
Expected graduation date 2010
 “Building things (from legos to robots to homes) has always fascinated me and has ultimately driven me to the University of Florida to study Mechanical Engineering. While learning might be an enjoyable part of the job, the most rewarding part is being able to help a customer make the right choice. That choice may be to water once a week rather than once a day, to buy an energy star appliance rather than the one that appears to be most economical up front, to invest in attic insulation or new windows on their home. The great thing about being a coop in the conservation department is that everything we do benefits company, community, and the environment. What aspect am I looking for in a career? I would like to be involved directly or indirectly in solving the growing energy crisis. Working for a utility like JEA would be a great place to do this.”
Robert McAlister
Electrical Engineering
University of North Florida
2006 Graduate
 “There is a lot you can do with an electrical engineering degree. Because of my co-op experience with JEA, I chose to take two power engineering elective courses that were not required but helped me understand more about the power industry. JEA sparked my interest in a specific career path within electrical engineering, and I now design, manage and construct multi-million dollar electrical substations. I absolutely enjoy my career at JEA, and was recently promoted to Engineer II for my efforts. I look forward to continued growth and advancement of my knowledge and the opportunities JEA will offer.”
Michele Mitchell
Human Resources Advisor
University of North Florida
2004 Graduate
 “Starting as a co-op is an excellent idea. You experience how the company works and realize how each area of the organization is different. In Human Resources, I have the opportunity to job shadow which helps me learn the difference between the job on paper and the actual work. A co-op is a good way to become familiar with the company and when I came on full time I already knew many of the basics. I watched many of my friends graduate without a job, but through the connections that I made during my co-op with JEA I already had a full time career opportunity.”
Sirisha Rayaprolu
Civil Engineering
University of North Florida
Expected graduation 2009
 "Choosing a Civil Engineering major has allowed me to be creative, effective, and design something that can benefit the community. Working in Water/Sewer System planning on the Sewer Hydraulic Modeling project helped me learn the inner workings of JEA. One of the main things I enjoy in the project is hunting for the proper addresses for pump stations. It is almost like a scavenger hunt to find the precise location of these stations and it is really exciting when you are able to find the correct address. My experience at JEA has helped me see the practical uses for the knowledge I learn in the classroom and enhance my people and communication skills.”
Jason Rinehart
Architectural Engineering
University of Miami
Expected graduation 2008
 “During my time as a co-op, I have been learning the business through a combination of meetings and field work. Spending time with consultants and subcontractors shows how things are done from start to finish. My long term career goal is to stay on with JEA and get to know the business. I like my manager and the guys I work with are really helpful with everything. It’s great here.”
Troy Rivera (INROADS)
Electrical Engineering
Florida Atlantic University
2006 Graduate
 “The INROADS co-op experience provided me with a great working, learning, and networking opportunity. I developed skills and relationships that have been and will continue to be useful in the position I have found myself in today. I am currently an Electrical Engineer working in the Bulk Power Operations group at the Systems Operation Control Center. In this position, I have had the opportunity to attend quality training courses with major names and manufacturers in the engineering field. From the very start, I have been an integral part of projects key to the successful operation of JEA’s electrical transmission and distribution system. When I’m not busy in the office, I am giving my small piece back to the local community by mentoring Jacksonville high school students that are interested in technical fields, such as engineering and architecture. Although I am still very early in my career, I have already had a great deal of rewarding work experience and training, and I am confident that it will continue throughout my time here at JEA. And it all began with the co-op program – a simple summer internship.”
|
