This summer, our engineering students took their classroom knowledge into the real world, gaining hands-on experience across industries, research labs, and large-scale projects. From improving production lines to supporting critical infrastructure, they demonstrated creativity, technical skill, and leadership. Here's a look at some of their journeys and accomplishments:
Chloe Soriano
Quality Engineering Intern, Stryker
Chloe worked at Stryker's Endoscopy Headquarters, gaining hands-on experience in process improvement, production line optimization, and quality assurance. She co-led cross-functional projects, promoted 6S standards on repair lines, and strengthened workflow efficiency while building skills and connections across the company.
Beyond her projects, Chloe networked with more than 75 colleagues, co-led a charity fundraiser for Operation Smile, enjoyed team outings around San Francisco, and even met Stryker CEO Kevin Lobo, making this a summer of both professional growth and unforgettable memories. She will return to the University of Miami to finish her master's in biomedical engineering, eager to build on the experience and inspiration gained at Stryker.
Hannah Clarisse Peñano
Transmission Planning Intern, Florida Power & Light
Hannah worked with NextEra Energy, Inc. and Florida Power & Light, gaining hands-on experience ensuring Florida's electric grid can reliably meet long-term load demand. She supported the team by leveraging Python-based tools to automate Excel tasks, improving speed, accuracy, and data organization.
Beyond technical skills, Hannah strengthened her ability to communicate the "why" behind her work, advocate for her ideas, and contribute to internal processes, making this summer a meaningful period of growth. She looks forward to applying these lessons in her final semester and beyond.
Jonas Junquera
Engineering Intern, The Walsh Group
Jonas, a third-year environmental engineering major and 2025–2026 treasurer for UM ASCE, spent his summer on the Miami Signature Bridge project with The Walsh Group – Archer Western. He gained hands-on experience in environmental maintenance, roadway planning, and erosion control.
"My favorite part about working on the Miami Signature Bridge project has been walking around the job site in the morning and seeing the sunrise with the arches in full view!" Jonas said, reflecting on the unique experience of contributing to a landmark project.
Kaylee Diaz
MedTech Technology Intern, Johnson & Johnson
Kaylee worked at Johnson & Johnson in Raritan, N.J., gaining experience in product analysis and systems-level project oversight. She supported a 30-person team building a proof-of-concept in interventional oncology, explored edge computing and AI tools, and contributed to a technical white paper for productionizing a platform.
She also developed skills in business valuation and ROI analysis, participated in wellness and charity initiatives, and experienced J&J's Credo-driven culture. As she heads into her senior year, she is excited to apply these skills to design projects, leadership roles, and a future career at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and product innovation.
Max Charles
Engineering Project Coordinator Intern, ASML
Max worked in the Upgrade, Install, Relocate department at ASML, supporting Pre-Install teams for advanced EUV lithography systems. He assisted with complex machine installations and contributed to high-impact projects.
His projects included developing a global VBA automation tool that saved over 1,000 hours annually, restructuring internal training for pre-installation tasks, and supporting knowledge transfer to enhance scalability across U.S. sites. He also presented his work at ASML's HBO Poster Celebration in Hillsboro, OR, networking with interns from across the country. This summer reinforced his passion for process optimization, automation, and engineering innovation.
Each of these students exemplifies the curiosity, drive, and technical skill that define the next generation of engineers. Their summer experiences not only advanced their professional growth but also made meaningful contributions to the teams and industries they joined.
Zeynep Balyemez
Civil Engineering Intern, Turner Construction Company
Zeynep, a fourth-year civil engineering major and UM ASCE member, spent her summer as an intern with Turner Construction on a major South Florida project. She gained hands-on experience across multiple civil engineering specialties while learning from her team.
"My favorite part of this internship has been observing how the general contractor brings together each of the moving parts to harmonize the team on such a large-scale project! And of course the views!" Zeynep said, reflecting on the experience of contributing to a complex, real-world construction project.
Each of these students exemplifies the curiosity, drive, and technical skill that define the next generation of engineers. Their summer experiences not only advanced their professional growth but also made meaningful contributions to the teams and industries they joined.
