Tiahna Padilla is a computer engineering and animation major who is spending her summer
working at Textron as an IT business analyst.
Beyond the Classroom: Tiahna Padilla
June 10, 2022
By Abigail Klein, Strategic Communications public relations advisor
Applied learning at Wichita State
At Wichita State, every degree we offer has opportunities for an applied learning
or research experience. As a Shocker, you'll get the chance to work side by side with
established professionals, building contacts, confidence and a strong resume before
graduation.
Wichita State’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in computer engineering will prepare you
for a high-paying career in a large number of industries and governmental organizations.
You’ll have access to some of the best labs and technology in the country — and the
chance to work and research with faculty and industry professionals on campus and
in Kansas’ center of industry.
Tiahna Padilla is a senior majoring in computer engineering and animation. She is
currently utilizing her skills as an intern at Textron Aviation as an IT business
analyst.
More than 5,000 Shockers each year take what they’ve learned in the classroom and
transfer that knowledge into real-world environments. Applied learning — which is
required for every Wichita State student — happens in offices, factories, laboratories,
nonprofits, industries and companies across the globe. Students work side-by-side
with seasoned professionals to ensure that they’re fully prepared to make meaningful
contributions to their employers and their communities when they graduate.
What is your job title, the company you work for, and your duties during your applied
learning experience?
I am currently an intern at Textron Aviation as an IT business analyst in the Automation
User Experience group. In this position, I work and manage web forms that users use
to request computers and other hardware that are needed.
How long do you expect to work in your current position?
I started my internship on May 31 and I will be working here until Aug. 5.
How did you learn about this opportunity?
I worked for Ennovar, and it contracted students to outside companies such as NetApp,
Textron Aviation and Koch. I was contracted out at Textron Aviation as an IT specialist.
How is this experience helping you build your resume and prepare you for your career?
I never had an internship before, and I hope this will be able to open more doors
to other opportunities by obtaining more experience.
How have your classes and experiences at Wichita State prepared you to succeed in
this applied-learning opportunity?
My classes have been extremely helpful to helping me gain more skills that I can apply
to the workforce and also broaden my horizons.
What advice would you give other students who are looking for hands-on experiences
in their major while they finish college?
Get involved in organizations, and it will help you gain experience in multiple aspects.
Project work can prove that you have gained these skills and you can implement them
in your work. Wichita State has a variety of different groups to choose from, or you
can even create an organization that interests you. There are a bunch of ways to have
hands-on experience.
