During my Human Resources Internship at Hobart Filler Metals, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the manufacturing industry—an environment I never imagined exploring before this experience. Entering a workplace centered around welding and production gave me a new appreciation for the precision, skill, and teamwork that define this field. What began as an HR internship quickly became a journey of curiosity and respect for the people who make manufacturing possible. I now carry a deeper admiration for the industry and the craftsmanship behind every weld.

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Throughout my internship, I contributed to a variety of HR initiatives that supported organizational efficiency, employee engagement, and workplace culture. I evaluated document management vendors to help automate onboarding and transition paper employee files into a digital system, ultimately recommending the top three platforms based on functionality, usability, and cost. I also assisted with employee relations investigations, coordinated employee engagement activities, and co-developed a “Respect in the Workplace” training session designed to foster inclusion, professionalism, and accountability.

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A key part of my work involved updating employee profile pictures within Workday, the company’s HRIS platform. Over four days, I coordinated across departments and shifts to capture and catalog over 100 photos, improving employee recognition and connectivity across the organization. I also learned the importance of EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) practices, observing how safety is integrated into every part of the manufacturing process—from communication and signage to employee training and awareness. Understanding EHS principles helped me recognize how HR plays a vital role in maintaining both compliance and care within the workplace.​

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Outside of my core responsibilities, I also had the chance to learn basic welding techniques, giving me hands-on insight into the craft at the heart of Hobart’s operations. That experience reminded me of the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone and understanding the people and work that HR supports.