Chinmay Chintawar spent the summer with us as an aviation engineering intern in our Chicago office. This fall, he will graduate from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering with a focus on construction engineering and management.
After an active three months on the job, Chinmay reflected on his time at Mead & Hunt and the lessons he’ll take with him into his future career.
Tell us about your experience at Mead & Hunt.
As I mark my last week of summer internship at Mead & Hunt, I’m reflecting on what an incredible summer this has been. From day one, I noticed that the culture of collaboration here is truly remarkable. The entire team is incredibly supportive, always ready to share their knowledge and assist with any challenges. Whether it’s offering guidance on a complex project or being available for a quick consultation, everyone is genuinely invested in each other’s success.
What kinds of projects did you get to work on?
One of the most memorable experiences during my internship was overseeing a 14-day fast-paced construction project at Grand Forks International Airport (GFK) in North Dakota. It was a hands-on, intensive project that pushed me to think on my feet and make quick, informed decisions. The fast pace and the responsibility made it one of the best learning experiences I’ve had.
In Chicago, I had the opportunity to work on projects at both O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) airports. These projects gave me a deep understanding of airport operations and the complexities involved in maintaining and upgrading such critical infrastructure. Working at Benton Harbor, Michigan was another valuable experience, and collaborating on IDOT projects further broadened my understanding of aviation construction.
What skills did you learn through your internship experience?
Throughout my internship, I gained several valuable skills that are essential in the field of aviation engineering. My attention to detail was sharpened, especially during on-site work for construction projects. I also improved my project management abilities, particularly in coordinating teams and managing time effectively during high-pressure situations. Working on airport projects honed my problem-solving skills, especially when dealing with the complexities of infrastructure upgrades. I also became proficient in using various software tools like Civil 3D and AVIPlan Airside, which were crucial for design and planning tasks.
How was your relationship with your supervisor?
A special thanks goes to Kevin Spitz, my supervisor. Kevin’s ability to manage people and projects is truly remarkable. He leads with expertise, empathy, and clear communication, motivating and empowering everyone around him. Despite his many responsibilities, Kevin always made time for one-on-one guidance, helping me navigate both work and general challenges.
What advice would you give to future interns?
I would advise future interns to embrace every opportunity to learn. Be proactive in seeking out experiences that challenge you, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Your internship is a unique chance to gain valuable hands-on experience, so make the most of it by staying curious and engaged. The relationships you build and the skills you develop will form a strong foundation for your career.
Anything else to add?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this experience. The lessons I’ve learned and the connections I’ve made have given me a solid foundation to build my career on. I’m grateful for the opportunities and the unwavering support I’ve received from everyone at Mead & Hunt. A big thank you to the Chicago office for making my internship such a rewarding experience.
