Last summer, Tristen Brooks eagerly joined WVPA as an engineering intern. Yet the Anderson University baseball player didn’t expect he’d be trading one summer pitch for another: a job pitch.
Tristen Brooks pitching for Anderson University. Tristen interned with WVPA the summer before his senior year.
Tristen joined WVPA again this May as a full-time professional engineer. His internship taught him about the electric cooperative industry and gave him insight into our culture. Not only did he want to rejoin our team; his experience ensured he experienced an easier transition working full-time. You can learn more about Tristen’s experience in our interview below:
You interned with us last summer. What made you want to come back full time after graduation?
What made me come back to WVPA was the culture and team that I work with. It is truly an unmatched work atmosphere here! (Plus all the food. 😉)
What sparked your interest in the power industry?
I love the mission of WVPA and knowing that my work is going to help and make a positive impact on others’ lives.
What does teamwork mean to you at WVPA, and how has collaboration helped you thrive in your role?
Without the collaboration of our team and everyone else that is involved in day-to-day projects, we would not be able to do the quality of work that we are able to produce!
Tristen Brooks at his college graduation. Shortly after his commencement, he joined WVPA full-time as an engineer.
What’s been your favorite part of the company culture so far?
There is a feeling here that everyone is a friend and is always open to talk or help you in any way they can.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for an internship or entry-level role here?
Ask questions and have open ears. Everyone here is willing to teach and talk about their knowledge and experience if you are willing to listen!
What’s something about college you didn’t appreciate until it was over?
Since it just ended it hasn’t really hit me yet, but if I had to choose something it has to be the amount of free time.
Speaking of which, when you’re not working, how do you spend your time? Any hobbies or passions?
When I am not working, I am most likely playing golf or video games, buying and selling Pokémon and baseball cards, or watching sports (mainly baseball).
Tristen Brooks stands in the center of a group of Anderson University students during a trip to Ecuador.
What are you most excited to learn or accomplish in your first few months here?
I am just excited to be a part of so many projects and improving my knowledge of substations by working with the experienced engineers/operations people here!
In what ways did your internship experience help you feel prepared to transition into a full-time role?
The internship allowed me to have prior knowledge of the power industry rather than walking in here with little to no knowledge on day 1. It also allowed me to know what the company was like on a day to day which made it an easier transition.
What’s something your team might be surprised to learn about you?
I helped design a rainwater collection system for a school in the middle of the Amazon!