Name: Michael DiGiacomo
Title: Controls Programmer Intern
University: University of Wisconsin – Madison
What inspired you to pursue an internship with Didion?
Didion seemed like it would be a great place to grow my real world experience. I also figured I would be able to use and expand on some of my knowledge from a previous internship, which made it seem like a good fit!
What is your main focus as a Controls Programmer Intern?
One project that I am heavily involved in is lighting automation in the mill. This would help reduce monthly energy costs. I am also working on automating one of our processes for creating electrical schematics using excel and AutoCAD. This could turn an hour plus long process into around 5-10 minutes.
How does your experience compliment your studies?
I’m studying electrical engineering and computer science. With those two majors, I learn a lot about computers and how they work and communicate. At Didion, I am able to see and learn more about the real world application of machines and computers. Not only that, but I also get to see how these computers are used in combination with all other aspects of the company to come together and create a final product.
What have you enjoyed the most about your internship with Didion?
How friendly and accommodating everyone has been. Any time I have a question or need help with a project I am working on, I know that I can ask just about anyone for some help and they’ll always be willing to lend a hand or tell me who I need to go to get it handled. It’s always nice to work at a place where you don’t need to stress about your coworkers and can focus on your work.
What new trainings/skills have you acquired through your experience?
A lot of the skills and knowledge I use at Didion are things that I was previously introduced to at a different internship. I am always working on improving the strength of those skills and the depth of my knowledge in regards to the tasks I perform. One skill that is completely new to me that I have learned while here is the programing language Visual Basic.
Looking ahead to the future, what are your career goals?
At this point in my life I’m not too sure what field I’ll end up in, or even where I want to end up. All I know is that I want a career that I am passionate about and am able to enjoy coming into work every day.
If you could choose anything to do for a day, what would it be?
Relax on a nice beach with some friends and some drinks.
