Jackson EMC has 20 interns that work in a variety of departments at Jackson EMC. Now that it’s February, these students are finally settled into their spring semester schedules and into their jobs at the co-op. Walker Sosbee, our PR/Communication Intern, sat down to talk with a few of these interns to learn a little more about them and how Jackson EMC has made an impact on their future.  

Lauren Reed is an intern with the Engineering and Operations team in the Oakwood office. Lauren has been an intern for three years, working for Jackson EMC while in high school and now while in college. While here, she found her passion for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) which plays a role in mapping. She is currently attending the University of North Georgia where she is majoring in GIS. Lauren is currently on track to graduate in the spring of 2024. 

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?  

A: I have a couple of hobbies including going to the gym. While I am at home, I like to play the Nintendo Switch in my free time. 

Q: What’s your favorite TV Show? 

A: I don’t really watch television all that much, but I do find myself watching TLC shows. They have a weird mix of garbage reality TV that I enjoy. I also enjoy watching All Elite Wrestling every Wednesday night with my dad. It’s something we enjoy doing together.  

Q: What interested you in applying for the intern position at Jackson EMC? 

A: I was assigned this internship through a work-based learning program when I was in high school. In the beginning, I didn’t know much about Jackson EMC. After working here for three years, I have realized that working at Jackson EMC is a wonderful opportunity. 

Q: Describe your role as an Intern at Jackson EMC. 

A: Sometimes, my role requires me to go out in the field to help gather information that supports my map drawing. Recently, I worked with staking in a new residential subdivision where I helped draw the mapping for the lights within the neighborhood. 

Q: How does your role play in providing service to our members? 

A: By assisting my coworkers, I indirectly help our members. Keeping the maps updated reduces the number of issues that occur while in the field. This in turn helps field workers fix/find problems in a timely manner. 

Q: Have you had previous intern/job experience? How does it compare with Jackson EMC? 

A: Jobs I had before I came to Jackson EMC provided me with a baseline understanding of customer service. I am able to use that knowledge today to interact with members and employees. 

Q: What is the most exciting part of being an intern at Jackson EMC? 

A: I love and appreciate the work that I do at Jackson EMC. It helped me realize what I wanted to study in college.  

Q: What advice would you give to anyone who is thinking about applying for an internship at Jackson EMC? 

A: Don’t be afraid to work hard here at Jackson EMC. Hard work and dedication are invaluable skills to learn and can help propel anyone professionally. Asking questions is always a valuable skill. Look for the opportunities that are put in front of you and take them where you can.