The Port of Portland’s Internship Program gives college students an opportunity to apply their classroom education to real-life situations and develop the skills and work experience that will enhance their competitiveness for future employment opportunities.
In return, these college students give us lots of new energy and creative ideas.
Are you in college or know someone attending a local university? To give you a preview of what the Port’s internship program entails, we asked our current interns to answer a few questions about their experience. Today, meet our Engineering Energy Management Intern Riley Saiki.
Name: Riley Saiki
Title and Department: Engineering Energy Management Intern
School and Studies: Electrical Engineering at the University of Portland
Can you share a bit about your background and what drew you to apply for an internship at the Port?
My name is Riley Saiki and I am from Kauai, Hi. I am studying to be an Electrical Engineer at the University of Portland and am going into my senior year this fall. I have previously worked as a Manual Laborer at a Wastewater plant and an IT Intern at the Country of Kauai. I chose to apply here at the Port because I felt I could learn a lot working here. The responsibilities and tasks of this job have (and will) give me skills that will lead me to success in my future career and in life in general.
In a few sentences, can you describe your work at the Port?
As an Energy Management Intern, I am tasked with assisting in energy savings projects. I help monitor the Port’s energy consumption and use that data found to create ways to reduce our energy waste. I work with the Energy Trust of Oregon on efficiency and conservation tasks that help the company achieve its savings Goals.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
The most rewarding thing about my position is the fulfillment that comes along with it. The work that my coworkers and I do is beneficial to the Port and the environment. We create savings for the company, reducing our consumption of energy and helping the environment. I get to do work that I enjoy doing and that is beneficial to others.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy playing sports like basketball, soccer, and football. I love to travel to places I haven’t been before and discover new places to eat at. I like to spend my time hanging out with my family and friends. It could be doing the tasks previously stated or anything else.
Our careers website plays with the idea that “We’re not what you’d expect.” What can you share about yourself that might surprise your Port colleagues?
I am currently in the process of getting in shape. I used to play a lot of sports and was active but stopped when I started going to college and working. Now, I am going back to the gym and eating healthier so that I can take better care of my body.
Want to join the Port of Portland Internship Program? Learn more and sign up for our job alerts now to receive email alerts when internships that match your interests become available.
