It’s a distinctly Michigan Tech twist on the ever-popular alternate spring break: students are visiting Silicon Valley companies, where they fit right in, according to one organizer.
“They share the same work ethic,” explains Adam Johnson, associate director for Michigan Tech’s corporate relations. “They love nerding out on stuff, working long hours, and they don’t complain. Life and work are really becoming one in the Bay Area, and our students flourish in that world.”
On this trip, the students will indeed feel right at home, touring such companies as Netflix, Tesla Motors, Google, and even Alcatraz, which is undergoing stabilization and restoration efforts.
“I am looking into the National Park Service and their recent activities on the Alcatraz Prison site,” said Nicholas Schweikart, an engineering major from Maple City, Mich. “But I also plan to do some digging on other companies like Brocade and Tesla Motors.”
Debbie Campbell, a Michigan Tech alumna, will show the students some problems with which Alcatraz is wrestling and hear their possible solutions.
“We are using more photovoltaic cells to get away from diesel power,” she says. “We also have many visitors who have trouble getting around the island, and I’d like their ideas on how we could improve access.”
The students are anxious to network, too.
“I look forward to getting to the other students,” said marketing and management major Kirstin Dulbandzhyn from Sheridan, Mich. “I hope to bring back some great connections for Michigan Tech as well as myself.”
“It’s great for our students to see where our graduates can go,” says Andre Laplume, assistant professor of management in Michigan Tech’s School of Business and Economics, also an organizer of the trip.
Dianne Marsh, computer science alumna, is currently director for engineering tools for Netflix. “I look forward to hearing what they’re working on and having a conversation about managing their careers in computer science,” she says.
Also on the schedule are visits to Autodesk, Cisco, Brocade, and some fun stops at the Porter Family Vineyards, alumni gatherings, and a restaurant that serves fried grasshoppers.
“I am very excited to tour some of most successful companies in the tech industry,” said Kevin Coleman, computer engineering major. “Since I have never had a chance to visit California, I am also looking forward to experiencing the beautiful scenery and rich culture the area has to offer.”
And lack of snow?
To keep track of the students and their journey, follow them here: