Dallas, TX, August 29, 2024 —
At RLG Consulting Engineers, we believe in fostering the growth of future leaders in engineering, and there’s no better example of this than Binh Vo. Binh, a Project Engineer at RLG, was invited to speak at the "PIP from the Past - Panel Discussion" for the Richardson Independent School District’s Professional Internship Program (PIP). His journey, from a young student passionate about engineering to a professional making a tangible contribution to his community, is an inspiring story of growth, and the importance of early career experiences and a supportive work environment.
During the panel, Binh was asked questions that highlighted his experiences and insights as a former PIP intern. His responses shed light on how the program shaped his career and the lessons he learned along the way. Below are the key questions and Binh's reflections:
What is your name and where do you work currently?
"My name is Binh Vo, and I work as a Project Engineer at RLG Consulting Engineers," Binh shared proudly during the panel. His connection to the Richardson community runs deep, having grown up in the area and now contributing to projects that impact the schools he attended.
How are you connected to the RISD Professional Internship Program?
"I’ve always called Richardson home, and the Professional Internship Program was a significant stepping stone in my journey to becoming an engineer," Binh reflected. Growing up in Richardson, Binh’s educational path took him through local institutions, including Stults Road Elementary, Forest Meadow Junior High, and Lake Highlands High School. These schools were where his curiosity for how things were designed and built began to flourish.
Binh’s connection to the Professional Internship Program (PIP) was a natural extension of this curiosity. When he discovered the program, he saw an opportunity to delve into his interest in engineering beyond the classroom. "The PIP program wasn’t just an introduction to the professional world for me; it was a chance to confirm my passion for civil engineering in a real-world setting," Binh explained.
What made you decide to apply for the Professional Internship Program in High School?
"The PIP program offered me a chance to delve into this field early on, giving me clarity and direction." By applying for PIP, Binh sought to bridge the gap between his academic interests and practical application. He recognized that the program would provide him with a unique opportunity to work alongside professional engineers, gaining insights and skills that would be invaluable as he moved forward in his education and career. Through PIP, Binh was able to immerse himself in the field of civil engineering, confirming his desire to pursue it as a career and setting the foundation for his future.
Where and what field did you intern?
Binh interned at RLG Consulting Engineers, where he was captivated by the firm’s multidisciplinary approach to Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Surveying, and Forensics. "The open office layout and welcoming atmosphere made learning feel natural and encouraged," he reflected.
What were the main projects or tasks you worked on during your internship?
Binh’s internship was a hands-on experience where he was immersed in the day-to-day responsibilities of an engineer. "I gained firsthand insight into how infrastructure is conceptualized, designed, and built," Binh said. This early exposure gave him a head start in his studies and his career.
Which skills did you develop or improve during your internship?
"I excelled in math and science, which led me to civil engineering," Binh noted. His internship allowed him to develop these skills further while also enhancing his problem-solving abilities. "Seeing months of hard work on paper come to life was incredibly rewarding."
Can you describe a challenge you faced during the internship and how you overcame it?
Binh faced the challenge of navigating unfamiliar tasks in a fast-paced environment. "The supportive environment at RLG helped me overcome these challenges," he said. "Every day, I looked forward to immersing myself in this new world."
How did this internship align with your career goals, and how has it influenced them?
Binh’s internship was closely aligned with his career goals, providing him with a solid foundation during uncertain times, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. "The experience made me more confident in my career choice," he said.
What was the most rewarding aspect of your internship experience?
"The most rewarding aspect was contributing to projects that impact the community I grew up in," Binh shared. "Working on the renovation of Forest Meadow Junior High, the school I attended, was particularly fulfilling."
How did you manage your time and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced or unfamiliar environment?
Binh credits the structured environment at RLG for helping him manage his time effectively. "The open-door policy and the team’s support made it easier to prioritize and tackle tasks efficiently," he explained.
What would you say is your biggest takeaway or learning from this experience?
"My biggest takeaway is that early experiences can guide you toward a path you might not have considered otherwise," Binh reflected. His journey from a PIP intern to a Project Engineer underscores the importance of exploring one’s interests early on.
Were there any areas where you felt you could have contributed more? If so, what held you back?
Reflecting on his internship, Binh acknowledged moments where he felt he could have contributed more. "As a high school intern in a professional setting for the first time, I sometimes held back out of fear of making mistakes," he admitted. The transition from the classroom to the workplace was exciting and intimidating, and Binh occasionally hesitated to ask questions or share ideas. Looking back, Binh realized that the engineers at RLG would have been excited to hear his insights and interests through his questions. "With the support of my mentors, who valued my curiosity and perspective, I could have engaged more fully," he reflected. Although he didn't fully embrace this during his internship, Binh now understands the importance of asking questions and sharing ideas as crucial steps in the learning process.
How did you use the experience and skills you gained in your future endeavors?
"The skills I developed during my internship have been instrumental in my career," Binh shared. "They helped me stand out in college and provided a strong foundation as I entered the workforce."
What is one piece of advice you would like to leave with these next set of interns as they prepare for their upcoming internships?
"My advice is simple: keep exploring your interests and make sure you enjoy what you’re doing," Binh advised. "Even if you find that the internship you’re in isn’t exactly what you want to pursue, there’s always a lesson to be learned."
About RLG Consulting Engineers
Founded in 1953 by Raymond L. Goodson, Jr., RLG Consulting Engineers specializes in civil, structural, surveying and forensic engineering. For 70 years, RLG has been recognized as one of the top engineering firms in Texas for their ability to attract and retain a talented, experienced team. Known for thorough and meticulous work, RLG has designed major projects in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and throughout the country. The staff of more than 80 employees, includes professional engineers holding licenses in 47 states, graduate engineers and registered professional land surveyors.
Media Contact:
Lindsay Hart | lhart@rlginc.com | 214-739-8100