Can you brief us about your scope of work during this internship?
As a business analyst intern, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of ANB products. I started off my internship working with eTRM, where I configured measures for energy programs in various states. I also worked heavily with DRM, ANB’s document management and recognition software, in which I configured field section searches on different forms. Lastly, I have been working with Shopify to create a marketplace for our clients to purchase rebate products straight from our store. ANB really engages their interns, so I feel like I got a great amount of experience working firsthand with the products.
What new skills, techniques and knowledge did you gained during your time with ANB?
I knew Java prior to my internship and configuring algorithms for eTRM got me familiar with JavaScript. I was also introduced to the energy industry, and realized there is a lot more to energy solutions than I had thought. My work with DRM has taught me a lot about optical character recognition and JSON editing and my current work with Shopify is teaching me how to use HTML and Liquid to make a marketplace. Once I figure out how to use APIs, that will be another skill I gained. Working at ANB Systems has also given me knowledge on how a successful company runs, even during a pandemic.
What are the highlights of working at what is considered a ‘smaller’ tech company?
The highlights of working at a smaller tech company is that the internship is very personal. Being in daily communication with someone like the President or CEO of the company is so cool and cannot be done somewhere else. Also, being at a smaller tech company allows the interns to do more important work rather than do meaningless clerical work like at some other companies. Doing work that seriously benefits the company is very rewarding and is something I cherish about working at ANB Systems.
How did the internship match your expectations?
As this is my first internship, I didn’t have too many expectations going into the program. But whatever expectations I had were met and exceeded. I did not think that I, as an intern, would be able to do so much work directly with the products that ANB has. I also did not expect to learn as much as I did, to be honest. I have learned so much over the last month about topics that really interest me. I am a business major so in college I am not exposed to the things that ANB covers. It is really cool to be a part of this company and learn all about the energy industry.
How easy/challenging is it to collaborate remotely with COVID19 restrictions in place?
Using Microsoft Teams, collaboration due to COVID restrictions is easy and straightforward. I do wish that we were able to work in person though because I would like to meet my colleagues and bosses physically.
Were colleagues supportive and how did you find the company culture?
Yes, my colleagues have been very supportive throughout my time here. Everyone is willing to help whenever I need it. As someone who joined the internship program late, I was a little lost, so I had a lot of questions. However, no one got frustrated with my lack of knowledge and everyone was very nice to me and helped me succeed/complete my tasks. The company culture is positive and has made me feel very comfortable. Everyone is rooting for their colleagues’ success and is ready to do anything to see them succeed. I also love the emphasis on working hard and getting things done quickly and thoroughly.
