From May to August 2024, I had the privilege of serving as an Electrical Engineering Intern at CACI International Inc. This immersive experience provided me with invaluable insights into the practical applications of electrical engineering in a professional setting, allowing me to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world implementation.

During my tenure at CACI, I was entrusted with a diverse range of responsibilities that spanned both hardware and software domains. One of my primary projects involved the creation of an auxiliary circuit board designed specifically for troubleshooting analog components. This challenging task required me to leverage my expertise in Altium, a sophisticated PCB design software, to develop a solution centered around the PIC32-MX Chip. The end goal of this project was to equip end users with an efficient and user-friendly tool for diagnosing and resolving issues in analog systems, thereby streamlining their troubleshooting processes.

A significant aspect of my work on hardware components involved implementing and working with various communication protocols. I gained hands-on experience with Serial, Socket, and SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) protocols, integrating them into our hardware solutions. This experience was particularly valuable as it enhanced my understanding of how different devices communicate within complex systems, and how to effectively implement these protocols to ensure smooth data transfer and system management.

With the complex work that we were given, there was also a great focus on developing a culture with the team. We would have game nights with the interns. This would be where one of the full time engineers would host Magic The Gathering or even host a laser tag tournament.

In addition to hardware design and protocol implementation, I had the opportunity to delve into software development, focusing on enhancing the functionality of ground station equipment. I took on the responsibility of developing driver and control scripts for an internal API, utilizing Python as my primary programming language. This project was particularly exciting as it allowed me to work on managing digitizer hardware on ground stations, a critical component in CACI's operations. Through this work, I not only honed my Python skills but also gained a deeper understanding of how software interfaces with specialized hardware in real-world applications.

Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of my internship was the exposure to project management methodologies and practices. I was given the opportunity to oversee the completion of multiple sprint deliverables, typically managing six or more at any given time. This role required me to direct project structures and delegate tasks effectively, utilizing industry-standard tools such as Jira for project tracking and Git for version control. The implementation of Agile methodologies was a key component of our development process, teaching me the importance of flexibility, collaboration, and iterative improvement in project management.

Throughout the internship, I found myself constantly applying and expanding upon the skills I had developed in my academic career. My experience with Altium proved invaluable in the circuit board design process, while my proficiency in Python was put to the test and significantly enhanced through the development of complex control scripts. Working with PIC32-MX microcontrollers provided hands-on experience with embedded systems, bridging the gap between hardware and software in a tangible way. The practical application of Serial, Socket, and SNMP protocols further deepened my understanding of hardware-software integration and network management in industrial settings.

The exposure to project management tools and methodologies was particularly enlightening. Learning to use Jira effectively for task tracking and sprint planning, coupled with the use of Git for collaborative development and version control, gave me insights into how large-scale engineering projects are managed in the industry. The practical application of Agile principles taught me the value of adaptability and continuous improvement in the fast-paced world of technology development.

This internship at CACI International was more than just a summer job; it was a transformative experience that significantly contributed to my growth as an aspiring electrical engineer. It allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges, develop new technical skills, and gain a holistic understanding of project management in the engineering field. The projects I worked on not only enhanced my technical abilities but also improved my problem-solving skills, teamwork, and ability to work under pressure to meet project deadlines.

As I reflect on this experience, I am grateful for the mentorship and opportunities provided by CACI International. The skills and insights gained during this internship have not only bolstered my resume but have also given me a clearer vision of my career path in electrical engineering. I leave this internship with increased confidence in my abilities, a broader understanding of the industry, and a reinforced passion for innovation in electrical engineering, particularly in the areas of hardware design, protocol implementation, and software development for complex systems.