NW Valley Times

Lillian Wong, a senior at Grand Canyon University (GCU) majoring in mechanical engineering with an emphasis on aerospace, recently completed an internship with Benchmark Electronics. The Tempe, Arizona-based company has been a longstanding partner of GCU, engaging students through internships and capstone projects.

Wong's journey to securing the internship was unexpected. She initially applied for the position through GCU Career Services' portal but was informed that the listing had been removed as it was already filled. However, Benchmark's career coordinator reached out to her due to her impressive resume, leading to the creation of another intern position.

“It’s kind of funny how I got the internship,” Wong said. “I didn’t know they opened up another intern position for me until before I left.”

As part of her 13-week internship with Benchmark, Wong worked as a process intern and collaborated with the New Product Introduction team. Her responsibilities included attending meetings with Benchmark headquarters, coordinating machine schedules on the shop floor, and creating 3D models using SOLIDWORKS software.

One notable project involved reverse-engineering a diagram to create a 3D model from a drawing that lacked one. Wong also interacted with various departments to understand how different components work together within the company.

The experience provided Wong with practical insights into engineering processes beyond theoretical knowledge gained from her classes. “The internship definitely gave me way more insight into the actual process of engineering,” she noted.

Benchmark Electronics is recognized for its partnership with GCU in fostering student development through internships and capstone projects. Samantha Russell, assistant professor and director of interdisciplinary capstones at GCU, highlighted this collaboration: “Benchmark Electronics is a valuable partner for the work we do for and with our students.”

Nicholas Wilshire, GCU Employer Relations program manager, emphasized the benefits of the Benchmark internship program: “The mentorship they get is great, and the students who come out of the program are extremely well-rounded.”

Currently working at Lux Precision Manufacturing within GCU’s Canyon Ventures, Wong continues to engage in hands-on engineering tasks. Her future aspirations include working in aerospace or propulsion engineering where she can continue exploring how things work.

Wong's passion for understanding systems dates back to middle school when Honeywell visited her school and sparked her interest in engineering fields. Encouraged by her parents to pursue STEM due to her proficiency in math, she chose GCU after discovering its community and upcoming aerospace program.

“I really like understanding how things work,” Wong expressed about her academic pursuits and professional experiences.

Her dedication extends beyond academics as she serves as president of the Grand Canyon Aerospace club, currently working on building a flight simulator from a crashed airplane.

For inquiries related to this story, contact Lana Sweeten-Shults at [email protected] or 602-639-7901.