So far, much of my work has focused on solving structural problems and processing technical details for timber constructions (assemblies, sizing, etc.). However, I’ve also had the opportunity to deal with structural analysis more broadly, calculating loads from snow, wind, earthquakes, etc., for future buildings. Additionally, I work on 2D and 3D drawings, both for proposals and concrete projects.

Over time, I believe I’ve gained a more practical and comprehensive view of the work. The reality of construction sites and designing for production is quite different from what is taught in school. For example, at school, you are presented with a problem to solve, while in the working world, you must consider multiple aspects: Is the proposed solution functional? Is it truly the best option? Can it be easily implemented on-site? Are the materials available? What is the cost? Not to mention the impact on other aspects like thermal bridges, aesthetics, etc.

Additionally, I am learning how a large company operates, where logistics, communication, and organization play a crucial role.

I think I’ve learned a lot from my colleagues, both practically (like solving software issues or drawing a detail in 2D) and on a broader level. They have taught me to have a global perspective, adapt, look for information in the right places, and, most importantly, develop a more critical mindset and a strong sense of responsibility. These are fundamental skills that are difficult to learn (or barely covered) in school.

Since I started here, I feel I’ve gained more skills in this period than in two and a half years of school. (This isn’t to say the school didn’t do a good job—it did—but learning through immersion suits me much better.)

The most rewarding moment I’ve experienced so far was being entrusted with my first “real and complete project.” This included structural calculations, measurements, creating 3D and 2D plans, organizing the assembly of prefabricated elements, and more. Although it’s a small construction site, it’s the first time I’ve taken on this level of responsibility. Of course, I don’t work alone—my colleagues are always available to answer my questions or check my work, which gives me a lot of reassurance.

Yes, it was a project with a rather unusual assembly where large forces needed to be transferred through relatively small wooden sections. The situation was complex because none of the conventional assembly methods suited the case. In the end, after many discussions with my manager, we managed to find a solution.

I find these kinds of challenges very interesting because, on paper, the answer may seem simple, but when you analyze the problem in depth, you realize it’s far from straightforward. It requires careful thought and brainstorming to arrive at a practical and optimal solution.

Primarily, I’ve developed the ability to research information—knowing where to look, how to do it, and finding practical examples of applications, etc. This is something I didn’t do before but has now become essential for my work.

I’m not sure if this counts as a skill, but stepping out of my comfort zone by moving to the other side of Switzerland without knowing the language has allowed me to grow quickly and significantly.

In the near future, I plan to carry out my duties within the company with dedication, continuing to learn and improve. After completing my internship, I will finish my studies and then focus on entering the workforce.

The first step was, of course, entering a new environment and discovering a different world. Next, I focused on acclimatizing, trying to understand the inner workings of the company, everyone’s roles, and so on.
The next step I foresee for myself is to become more independent and integrated, spending more time in workshops and construction sites and interacting more with people.
By the end of my internship, I genuinely hope to have acquired an engineer’s mindset, which I believe is one of the most challenging aspects of my studies.

I’d say “Sultans of Swing” by Dire Straits. I’m not exactly sure why, but I really like it, and I listened to it this morning on the bus. It’s an upbeat song that gives me positive energy and shows that I don’t see work as a burden in the morning. And, in the end, that means everything to me.