The image of the intern, as depicted in popular culture, is one relegated to the bottom of the corporate ladder — if given a rung at all.
Long portrayed as someone assigned to menial tasks such as fetching coffee, the role has morphed into an almost unrecognizable state from its intended purpose.
But that’s not the case at Outrider, a Denver-based company that aims to modernize logistics hubs using automation and zero-emission systems. As a business looking toward a more sustainable future for freight transportation, Outrider has the same foresight into best nurturing potential candidates.
Tyler Fichtelberg would agree. As a people operations intern, he’s never felt like anything other than one of Outrider’s employees. Instead of taking food orders, he’s actively picking up skills in HR operations. He’s even contributed to his team’s work while absorbing newfound knowledge.
“During my onsite interview and first days on the job, I felt immediately at home,” said Fichtelberg. “While it’s a progressive, fast-paced work environment, it’s also very cordial and orderly.”
True to the original intention of an internship — for newcomers to glean experience and immersion in a certain field — Fichtelberg picked up the nuances and confidence needed to thrive in a tech office.
As a gateway for new talent to become full-time employees, building out a robust internship program like the one at Outrider can seed future talent. Built In Colorado sat down with Fichtelberg for a closer look at how a successful internship program can help professionals transition into the workforce.
Tell us a bit about the internship program you’re participating in. What made you decide this was the right place to do your internship?
Outrider is making logistics hubs autonomous and electric to drive the rapid adoption of sustainable freight transportation. Beyond this great mission, there’s something very special about this company — the people. In my role, I’ve gained exposure to nearly all of the major areas of human resources. It’s been great to contribute to Outrider’s growth and success.
Beyond this great mission, there’s something very special about this company — the people.”
What’s the coolest project you’ve worked on in your role as an intern? What skills did that project help you develop?
My favorite project so far has to be the benefits booklet. We recently revamped our benefits program, so we needed to update the booklet detailing these changes. I like to organize information, so I helped put together the outline for the booklet. I also contributed by writing some of its content. This project furthered my organizational skills and strengthened my communication skills. I’m very proud of the finished product.
How has your internship helped you grow professionally, and how will you carry the lessons you’ve learned forward into your career?
My internship has exposed me to nearly all of the major areas of HR; I knew very little about the actual role of an HR team before this. I have gained invaluable experience working full-time in a lively, contemporary office. With this experience, I have become a better listener and a better communicator. Most importantly, I have developed and elevated my confidence and poise in the workplace. I have learned to practice wise resilience, take personal ownership and have others’ backs — all company values.
