In an era where practical experience meets academic knowledge, TAMKO Shingles is a beacon for aspiring engineers seeking meaningful summer internships. The company’s commitment to fostering talent is evident in its comprehensive internship program, which currently hosts four exceptional engineering students at various facilities nationwide.
The heart of TAMKO Shingles’ success lies in its unique mentorship and real-world application approach. At the Dallas manufacturing plant, Kynan DeSquare, a fourth-year Electrical Engineering student from Texas A&M, exemplifies the program’s impact. Currently in his third internship with TAMKO, DeSquare’s journey from learning to operate a forklift to managing complex electrical components showcases the company’s investment in comprehensive skill development.
“The entire plant operates like one united family,” DeSquare says, highlighting the collaborative environment that defines TAMKO’s workplace culture. His experience working with electrical components and motors has provided invaluable practical knowledge that will directly apply to his upcoming senior project.
The program’s reach extends to Tuscaloosa, where Brayden Banks, a senior Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Alabama, gains insights into the manufacturing process while working alongside his father, the Operations Manager. Banks’ projects, including designing upgraded mounts for web guide eyes on shingle production lines, demonstrate TAMKO’s trust in their interns’ capabilities to contribute meaningfully to operational improvements.
At TAMKO’s Columbus, Kansas facility, Felipe Perez, a sophomore Mechanical Engineering major from the University of Missouri, brings his passion for automotive engineering to the manufacturing sector. Under the guidance of supervisor Adam Stewart, Perez has immersed himself in 3D modeling and equipment component redesign, highlighting TAMKO Shingles’ commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology in their operations.
The Frederick, Maryland plant hosts Andrew Thompson, a senior Mechanical Engineering student from the University of Maryland, who provides a unique perspective on the program’s impact. Thompson’s focus on enhancing shingle line conveyor systems exemplifies how TAMKO integrates interns into critical operational improvements.
David Humphreys, TAMKO’s Chairman and CEO, emphasizes the program’s significance: “Our internships serve as gateways to full-time employment, with many former interns returning as permanent team members after graduation.” This commitment to long-term development underscores TAMKO Shingles‘ investment in nurturing future industry leaders.
The program’s success is rooted in its comprehensive approach to professional development. Interns engage in projects directly impacting manufacturing efficiency, from optimizing production lines to implementing technological innovations. This hands-on experience, coupled with mentorship from seasoned professionals, creates an environment where theoretical knowledge meets practical application.
The impact of TAMKO’s internship program extends beyond technical skill development. Interns consistently highlight the supportive culture and family-like atmosphere that characterizes their experience. This environment fosters professional growth and personal development, preparing well-rounded engineers for industry challenges.
As TAMKO celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2024, its commitment to manufacturing excellence continues by investing in future talent. The success of products like the Heritage and Proline shingle series, featuring innovations like Titan XT and StormFighter FLEX, reflects the company’s dedication to quality and innovation—values actively passed on to its interns.
The program’s effectiveness is evident in the testimonials of current interns, who consistently praise the competitive compensation, invaluable mentorship, and real-world experience gained. This combination of practical experience, supportive culture, and meaningful project work sets TAMKO’s internship program apart in the manufacturing sector.
Looking ahead, TAMKO Shingles continues to strengthen its position as a manufacturing education and innovation leader. The company’s approach to internships demonstrates that successful manufacturing relies on advanced technology and efficient processes and on nurturing the next generation of engineering talent who will drive the industry forward.
