At PRI Engineering we pride ourselves on our company culture and opportunities for growth. Our internship program gives current engineering students the ability to learn from expert engineers and get hands on experience that they’ll be able to bring with them in the next steps of their careers.
We wanted to hear from one of our very own interns how his experience at PRI has helped him in his engineering journey. We had the chance to sit down with Ryan Boljkovac, one of our current interns who is a third-year civil engineering student from Queen’s University.
Ryan’s story is one that resonates with anyone who’s ever been curious about what it’s really like to be an intern in a bustling engineering firm. He’s not just another intern; he’s become part of our PRI family. In this friendly chat, Ryan spills the beans on the ups and downs, the learning curves, and those little moments of triumph that have coloured his time with us.
Ryan shares his honest thoughts about working on impactful projects, navigating new challenges, and the incredible support he’s found here at PRI Engineering. It’s a real-world peek into our internship program, through the eyes of someone who’s lived it.
Whether you’re a student pondering an internship, a seasoned professional, or just curious about life in our corner of the engineering world, Ryan’s experiences are sure to enlighten and inspire.
Interview Transcript
Zoya
Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your background and current role at our company?
Ryan
Sure. My name is Ryan Boljkovac. I’m originally from Alberta, specifically the Edmonton area. I’m a third-year civil engineering student at Queen’s University. I joined PRI Engineering in May 2023 as a geotechnical engineering intern.
Zoya
What are your hobbies outside of work?
Ryan
Being in Calgary, it’s a great place to be outdoors. In the summer, I did a lot of hiking in the mountains and saw many cool places. At home, I’m kind of a young vinyl collector, more of a listener really, as it’s an expensive hobby. I also enjoy listening to music and reading.
Zoya
What inspired you to apply for an internship with PRI?
Ryan
I met Arash and Vicky, two engineers at PRI, at a job fair at Queen’s. I was intrigued by the opportunity to work in Alberta, and I was also captivated by the work they were doing, particularly the solar foundations for solar farms. It’s an aspect of the renewables industry that many people don’t think about, specifically the subsurface and geotechnical engineering that goes into solar panels. So, I applied, got the job, and have loved living in Calgary.
Zoya
Can you describe a typical day as an intern at PRI?
Ryan
Yes! There’s been a good split between field work and office work recently. In the field, I’m living on the road, conducting various testing programs for our engineers. When in the office, or on days off, I usually work with one of the engineers or project coordinators on reports, testing sheets, and proposals, collaborating with some of my managers here in Alberta.
Zoya
What are the key skills you’ve developed during your internship?
Ryan
My communication skills have definitely improved, especially in writing proper emails and needing to communicate with many people, more than in schoolwork. I feel my writing and communication skills have improved, as well as my overall industry knowledge about how a workplace functions, particularly in a consulting engineering firm.
Zoya
Can you share a specific project you worked on that was particularly rewarding or challenging?
Ryan
Yes, the most challenging project was our recent Homestead Solar farm field investigation. As one of the field staff, it was tough. I spent about six weeks in Claire’s Home, Alberta, conducting the field investigation. We encountered several issues with the subsurface conditions, requiring on-the-fly decisions from our engineers and project managers. Despite the challenges, we completed it within the timeline, which was definitely a tough but rewarding experience.
Zoya
How has the mentorship within the company impacted your professional growth?
Ryan
Mentorship has been the most influential aspect of my professional career so far. Learning from my managers and from Arash, our CEO, and other engineers and managers like Arman and Rob has been enlightening. Almost every conversation or meeting teaches me something new, something I can apply to my work and future in this industry. Observing the company’s daily operations has significantly impacted my professional growth.
Zoya
How would you describe the company culture at PRI?
Ryan
I would describe it with four words: hardworking, close-knit, energetic, and hungry. Being part of a small to mid-sized engineering firm, we often have to punch above our weight, which is good. It’s great to be part of a company where everyone knows each other and works hard to make things happen. The culture is youthful and healthy, and I’ve really enjoyed being part of it.
Zoya
Can you share an experience that exemplifies the company’s values?
Ryan
Two experiences come to mind. The Homestead Solar project, for example, required fast changes and strategy pivots due to the difficulties on-site. Almost half the company was involved at some point, and everyone worked hard to overcome the challenges, reflecting how we work at PRI Engineering. Also, our ventures into new markets and industries, like completing solar projects in the Maritimes, show our expansion and expertise, which is very interesting.
Zoya
In what ways do you feel your work as an intern has contributed to the company’s goals?
Ryan
I’d like to think I’ve brought a fresh perspective, especially to the Alberta office, which was relatively new when I started. I believe I offer different perspectives on problems and, as an intern, bring new ideas and approaches to the team.
Zoya
Are there any specific initiatives or projects that you’re particularly proud of being a part of?
Ryan
I’m mostly proud of being part of the renewables work we do, mostly solar foundations. Being involved in this industry is interesting and feels like contributing to Alberta’s transition to more solar and wind energy. It’s rewarding to be part of this from the geotechnical side, which is often not directly associated with renewables.
Zoya
How do you collaborate with other team members and departments within PRI?
Ryan
Being spread across multiple provinces, collaboration can be challenging. In Alberta, we collaborate in person quite a bit, but most of our interactions with other offices are online. However, when we meet in person, it really strengthens our bond as a team.
Zoya
What’s your favorite part about working with your team?
Ryan
Being an engineering student, I value every learning opportunity. Almost daily, I learn something new, whether talking with someone, working on a new project or proposal, or during lab or field work. I’m trying to absorb as much as I can from our knowledgeable personnel.
Zoya
How has this internship prepared you for your future career aspirations?
Ryan
This internship has given me a great perspective on what I want to do post-graduation. It has taught me what I want in my future career, what aspects I’d like to keep, and what I’d like to change. It’s mostly about learning, and I’ve gained insights that I want to carry over into my future work.
Zoya
What advice would you give to future interns at PRI?
Ryan
Take every opportunity that comes your way. There will be many tasks thrown at you, and giving your best will likely lead to success. It’s a chance to showcase your skills and work ethic, so seize every opportunity.
Zoya
Are there any company events or team-building activities that you’ve enjoyed?
Ryan
Our company Christmas party in Ontario was memorable, as it allowed me to meet many colleagues in person for the first time. Attending industry events, mostly renewable-based, has also been exciting and bonding for the team.
Zoya
Would you recommend our internship program to other students?
Ryan
Definitely. The diversity of tasks and projects at PRI offers a unique learning experience. Being part of a growing company, doing interesting things in engineering, and being more involved in the process as interns are something I value highly.
