Mechanical Maintenance Intern, Noah Feldt, has gained valuable hands-on experience while working alongside the mechanical maintenance crew and learning what it takes to keep the plant operating efficiently.
Throughout his internship, Noah has been assigned to a maintenance crew where he has worked on a variety of projects and daily tasks, including recycling pump maintenance, oil changes, and completing daily work orders. From removing and replacing equipment parts to performing repairs, he has had the opportunity to see nearly every area of the plant and contribute to maintenance work. “It’s been really rewarding to see the work I’m doing make a difference,” Noah shared. “I’ve gotten to experience all parts of the plant and learn something new every day.”
One of the biggest lessons Noah has taken away from the internship is the importance of patience and using the right tools for the job. He has learned that taking the time to approach a repair correctly leads to better results than trying to force a solution. Along the way, he has become familiar with a wide range of tools and gained a better understanding of which equipment and techniques are best suited for different maintenance tasks.
The internship has also given Noah a deeper appreciation for the problem-solving involved in mechanical maintenance. Rather than simply following a work order, he has learned to evaluate each situation, identify potential issues, gather the necessary tools, and adapt when unexpected challenges arise. Applying what he has learned in the classroom to real situations in his role has strengthened both his confidence and maintenance abilities. “I’ve learned that mistakes can be fixed,” Noah said. “The important part is taking the time to understand the problem and find the right solution.”
Looking back on the summer, Noah feels he has accomplished the goals he set at the beginning of his internship. Beyond developing new skills, he especially enjoyed working with every member of the mechanical maintenance team. Learning from employees with different experiences and perspectives has helped him better understand the career field while continuing to grow in his own role. “The guys are fun to be around, and I’ve learned a lot from every single one of them,” he said.
As he reflects on his internship, his biggest takeaway is one that extends beyond the workplace. “Enjoy life where you are at,” Noah said. “Everything will fall into place. This internship has been a great experience for me to learn from and has helped prepare me for the future.” This fall, Noah will return to South Dakota School of Mines & Technology to continue pursuing his degree in mechanical engineering.
We thank Noah for his hard work and dedication this summer and wish him continued success in the future!