July 30, 2024
CBI Workplace Solutions believes in fostering the growth and development of our future professionals through our internship program. This summer we had the pleasure of welcoming a group of talented and enthusiastic interns who brought fresh perspectives and new energy to the team. Over the past eight weeks, they have experienced learning, growth, and unforgettable memories while being immersed in the design industry.
Take a look into the eight-week internship program, along with the intern’s experiences and skills that they have gained along the way.
Welcome to the Hive
The first week was all about the interns getting to know and connect with each other, along with understanding the CBI culture. All of the interns gathered in the Charlotte office to kick off the internship program. They participated in a thorough orientation program where they learned about our company values, mission, and the various departments they would be working with, along with the training necessary for success. The interns then went their separate ways and traveled to their assigned CBI location/ market. This was the point where they got to meet and connect with their mentors, who would be guiding and teaching them throughout their internship.
Eight Weeks of Enrichment & Fun
Throughout these eight weeks, the interns got the chance to work on real projects, from assisting in design planning to understanding the intricacies of project management. This helped them get a taste of the real-world opportunities and challenges within the design and workplace solutions industry.
A significant aspect of their internship was the exposure to client interaction. They joined and attended client meetings alongside their mentors, assisted in preparing presentations, and gathered the necessary products they would need to be successful. This experience was invaluable, offering insights into the clients’ needs and expectations.
To ensure a well-rounded experience, we organized site visits to various projects. These visits allowed the interns to witness firsthand the implementation of design plans and the transformation of spaces, effectively tying together their learning and experiences from the internship.
Additionally, the interns had the chance to build connections and expand their network by meeting other interns from different industries that CBI collaborates with on various projects. This networking opportunity further enriched their internship experience, providing them with diverse perspectives and fostering professional relationships.
Through the Eyes of the Interns
Here are some of the intern’s personal experiences from their eight weeks at CBI to get a better look into what they have accomplished and got out of their valuable time.
Amber Dobbins, Charlotte intern, said “My most memorable moment would have to be being a part of a project from beginning to end. I was able to sit in on the very first client meeting and from there I’ve completed solution pages, CAP worksheets, and have selected and ordered finishes for the clients as well. It’s been a great experience!”
Jamie Tyson, Piedmont Triad intern, said “My most memorable moment from this internship so far has been when I lead a client meeting. I was able to present workspace solutions that I created as well as ancillary furniture and textile samples. I believe that moment from my internship will stick with me forever and has given me a lot of confidence as a designer.”
Emma Dober, Raleigh intern, said “The most valuable thing I have learned is to be curious and ask questions! As an intern, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by new information. However, asking deeper questions to grasp the full scope of a project can significantly aid in absorbing and retaining the information.
Angelle Rodriguez, South Florida intern, said “This internship greatly enhanced my personal and professional growth by providing hands-on experience in workplace design. I developed practical skills in softwares such as CET and CAP, along with my skills in project management, while also boosting my confidence in collaboration and problem solving. This experience has truly deepened my passion for design and prepared me for my career.”
Intern Send Off
As the internship program came to an end, we are grateful to have had the opportunity to work with these wonderful individuals. Our interns shared their experiences, the skills they acquired, and the personal growth they have gained.
We are incredibly proud of our interns and the progress they have made during their time here at CBI. Their dedication, creativity, and enthusiasm have been inspiring and exciting to watch. As they move forward in their careers, we are excited to watch and see them grow and prosper with the skills that they have gained. To our interns: thank you for your enthusiasm and drive to learn more. You have truly made these eight weeks ones to remember.
