Starting My Journey at Indium Corporation
In the summer of 2024, I was looking for work and unsure where my next opportunity would come from. Fortunately, I was given the chance to work at Indium Corporation through the generosity of Bernie Leavitt. I’ve known Bernie and his family for years, and when he heard I was searching for work, he extended a helping hand. I will always be thankful for that gesture, as it marked the beginning of an experience that has shaped my professional journey in ways I didn’t anticipate.
Walking into Indium Corporation on my first day was an experience I won’t forget. I was freshly 18, heading into my second year of college, and admittedly overwhelmed. The environment was completely new to me. I didn’t have much work experience, especially not in a corporate or technical setting like Indium Corporation’s. Everything felt unfamiliar: new people, new expectations, and new challenges. It was intimidating, and I questioned whether I could contribute in a meaningful way.
My first summer at Indium Corporation, I had the privilege of working with the Project Management Office team, including Shannon Greene and Melissa Ellis. I also collaborated with the Supplier Quality team, which consisted of Meghan Catterson, Michael Fitzgerald, and Karen Bamberger. When I began working on projects for both departments, I felt a lot of pressure. I didn’t want to make mistakes or fall behind simply because I didn’t fully understand my responsibilities. But that anxiety quickly faded, thanks to the kindness and patience of the people around me.
Each team member I worked with went out of their way to ensure I felt supported. They took the time to explain things clearly, encouraged questions, and always made sure I had what I needed to succeed. Instead of feeling judged for what I didn’t know, I felt motivated to learn. Their guidance gave me the confidence to take on assignments that initially felt too complex. Over time, I began to see how my role contributed to the team’s success, which was incredibly encouraging.
Returning for a Second Summer
My experience last year left a strong impression; not just because of the skills I gained, but also because of the relationships I formed. So, when the summer of 2025 came around, I knew without hesitation that I wanted to return. This time, I returned to Indium Corporation as an Operational Excellence Intern. I was excited to be back, but I also carried a new sense of confidence. After all, having already spent a summer at Indium Corporation, I believed I had a good understanding of how things worked.
In the best possible way, I was wrong.
From the very first week, I realized there was still so much more to learn. Despite the familiar company and environment, every day introduced me to new concepts, tools, and insights. It was a reminder that growth is a continuous process: just because you’ve been somewhere before doesn’t mean the learning stops.
Learning and Growing Under Great Leadership
This summer, I’ve had the pleasure of working under Tommie Locke, Operational Excellence Manager, who has been an outstanding supervisor and mentor. Her supportive and encouraging leadership style creates an atmosphere where learning and curiosity are genuinely valued. Tommie has been instrumental in helping me navigate my new role and always made herself available whenever I had questions. That kind of support makes a huge difference, especially when trying to contribute in a new position.
My current team has been just as welcoming. From day one, I’ve felt a strong sense of collaboration and mutual respect. Everyone is willing to walk me through processes, provide feedback, and make sure I understand the “why” behind our work. This approach has deepened my understanding of operational excellence and its critical role in the company’s success.
My operational excellence internship has emphasized how important it is to stay open to learning, embrace challenges, and work effectively with others toward shared goals.
The People and Culture at Indium Corporation
What stands out most about Indium Corporation is the people. The culture here is truly special, with a genuine focus on teamwork, personal development, and meaningful connections. I didn’t just come back this summer for an internship; I came back to continue the relationships I built last year and to create new ones. I have already begun forming great friendships with my current team and with other interns across the company, making my experience even more rewarding.
One of the things I appreciate most is that I’m not treated “just” as an intern. I’m given real responsibilities and trusted to take ownership of projects. That trust motivates me to bring my best self to work every day and proves that Indium Corporation sees potential in young professionals like me.
Reflections and Gratitude
Looking back on both summers, I can confidently say that returning to Indium Corporation was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I have not only developed valuable skills but have had significant personal growth. I’ve become more confident in my abilities, more curious about the world of business and manufacturing, and more excited about what my future holds.
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Bernie Leavitt for opening the door for me. I also want to thank my team from last summer—Shannon, Melissa, Meghan, Michael, and Karen—for helping me transition into the role and develop the skills I needed to succeed. And, of course, thank you to Tommie and my new team this summer for believing in me and continuing to help me grow.
Indium Corporation has been more than just a workplace to me; it’s been a community. I look forward to the rest of this summer and to whatever opportunities the future may bring. No matter where my journey takes me, I’ll carry the lessons and relationships from Indium Corporation with me.
