Reflection

• Most important thing learned:

The most important thing I learned during my time at Johnson Energy Storage is the importance of precision and consistency in engineering work. Even tasks that felt repetitive, like cutting and cleaning metal foils, directly affected whether battery samples could be successfully built and tested. I also learned that safety and attention to detail are non-negotiable in a lab environment, especially when working with controlled spaces like glove boxes. Another key lesson was that asking for help is not a weakness but a necessary part of learning. Troubleshooting on my own first and then communicating clearly with others helped me grow more confident and capable in the lab.

• Engineering practices/mindsets I see professionals using:

The professionals at Johnson Energy consistently use a mindset focused on collaboration, efficiency, and problem-solving. Teams are highly specialized, but they rely on one another’s work to meet testing goals. I observed engineers valuing documentation and organization, especially when tracking materials, waste, and sample preparation. While this isn't always implemented correclty by everyone, the goal is to perfect this process so that things like waste are more manageable. There is also a strong emphasis on safety procedures and controlled environments, showing how engineering largely involves the minimization of risks. 

• Biggest surprise?

The biggest surprise for me was how impactful my work was, even though I wasn’t always directly assembling the final battery samples. I didn’t expect material preparation and stockpile management to be so critical to the success of the entire operation. Seeing the progress screen in the lab fully marked by December 1st made it clear that my contributions mattered. I was also surprised by how common troubleshooting issues were with lab equipment. Instead of being setbacks, these moments were treated as normal parts of the engineering process.

• Influence on future goals?

This internship strengthened my interest in engineering and research, especially in battery technology. Working in a professional lab environment helped me see myself in similar spaces in the future. I gained exposure to real-world engineering practices that go beyond classroom learning, which made the field feel more tangible. The experience also showed me how interdisciplinary engineering work can be, combining materials science, safety, and teamwork. Overall, it encouraged me to pursue more hands-on technical opportunities moving forward.

• Advice to give to a future student at this internship?

My biggest advice to a future student is to take every task seriously, even if it seems repetitive at first. The work you do has a direct impact on the success of the research and the rest of the team. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially when learning new tools or procedures in the lab. It’s helpful to try troubleshooting on your own first, but communication is key when something isn’t working. Lastly, stay organized and patient, because precision and consistency are what make this internship both challenging and rewarding.