An Interview with Our Summer Intern Mike Platz

Q: What year are you in your college program?

A: I am a Junior in college, I just finished my second year at Clackamas Community College and will be transferring down to Oregon State in the fall.

Q: What is your major and what kind of jobs are you considering after you graduate?

A: I am majoring in Civil Engineering, with a dual focus on geotechnical and structural fields. My plan is to obtain my PE license and eventually open my own firm, where I aim to focus on residential projects and commercial buildings.

Q: What things are you learning about working for a small geotechnical engineering firm that you were not expecting?

A: At a large firm, you can learn a lot about the technical side of the business, but they may not teach you how to actually run a company. Working with Strata has significantly enhanced my understanding of the business side of engineering, including aspects that are not covered in the curriculum at OSU.

Q: What are some of the things you've learned here at Strata that you didn't know or didn't have much experience with before?

A: I've gained exposure to many environmental aspects that I had not encountered before. The most significant new skill I've acquired is using a drone to create 3D models of properties.

Q: Anything you want to share about how you think your experience will influence your next steps?

A: Working with experienced engineers at Strata has provided me with valuable insights into the facets of life and business that my formal education does not address. I have had the opportunity to ask questions and learn about their journeys through school and their transitions into the professional world.

Q: Anything you might want to share to potential future interns that want to work in geotechnical engineering

A: I would highlight a few points: you have the opportunity to be outdoors as much as you want, the field is quite resilient to economic downturns, and the work is engaging and varied. No two pieces of land are the same, and each presents unique challenges.