A bumper crop of summer students got an insider’s view of Trans Mountain Pipeline’s multi-faceted operations in 2019. Almost two dozen enthusiastic students boasting a wide range of skills and interests joined us for four memorable months, learning about and contributing to our company. Here’s a sampling of their observations.
What interested you in a summer position with Trans Mountain?
As a graduating student, working for a company that will give me a chance to improve my skills and prepare me for the “real world” is a priority, and with more than 60 years of operation, Trans Mountain is the perfect place for that. — Gil, GIS/Risk and Integrity, Calgary
As a student engineer, I’m very interested in working for companies that positively impact society, which is why I applied for a summer position with Trans Mountain. Trans Mountain’s work has such a large impact on the Albertan economy and day-to-day life, so I really wanted to be a part of what makes that happen. — Katherine, Operations, Calgary
The opportunity to work on a prominent legal file during an unprecedented time in Canadian jurisprudence was of great interest to me. There are many aspects of the law that have been intertwined into the entire Trans Mountain Expansion saga that are quite fascinating. The chance to have a behind-the-scenes look was appealing. Additionally, being part of a small legal team provided the opportunity to take on more responsibility and do work normally reserved for more experienced lawyers in private practice. — Sheldon, Legal, Calgary
What was your role?
My task for the summer was to create a yearly report of the analyzed 2018 SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) data. I was given SCADA data collected from each of the Trans Mountain pipeline stations and, through various methods of data analysis, produce more useful data. I compiled the processed data in a report so it can be easily referenced by other team members when they need the information. — Katherine, Operations, Calgary
My role was providing support to the Burnaby regional office, including reception and finance, with tasks such as updating spread sheets, budgets and invoice tracker. — Lauren, Burnaby region office
What did you enjoy most about working at Trans Mountain?
I attended various training exercises where I got hands-on experience involving emergency spill response and fire safety plans. I was able to sling boom, set up the decontamination station, hold a fire hose and take photos that ended up in The Manifold. — Hanna, Emergency Management, Calgary
There was truly never a dull moment working here! The communications team allowed me to participate in so many amazing activities and projects that I felt like I was really a part of the company. It went well beyond anything I could have expected, and I could not be more grateful for all the learning opportunities. — Terah, Communications, Calgary
What’s up next for you?
I will be heading back to university in Kelowna full time to continue my degree in Electrical Engineering. — Matthias, Operations, Abbotsford
I’m going into my second year at the University of Guelph and hoping to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree. — Eden, Operations, Kamloops
What was the most important thing you learned at your job this summer?
I have really enjoyed working for Trans Mountain and especially learning how an office works. I’m excited that I will be able to apply the skills I’ve learned in my future career. — Lauren, Burnaby region office
I learnt about the importance of core values in a company. From listening to CEO Ian Anderson speak and observing my supervisors and colleagues, I have discovered the success that comes from having strong principles and building positive relationships. — Katie, Edmonton region office