Wichita State University senior Cameron Holston is majoring in aerospace engineering
and is interning at NIAR's Aircraft Structural Test and Evaluation Center.Courtesy photo
Beyond the Classroom: Cameron Holston
June 8, 2022
By Paul Suellentrop
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.
The aerospace engineering department at Wichita State University is the seventh oldest
in the nation. Located in the Air Capital of the World, we have long benefitted from
and contributed to Wichita's rich aviation history. Wichita is home to such names
as Airbus, Bombardier-Learjet, Textron/Cessna/Beechcraft, and Spirit AeroSystems.
Cameron Holston works with a variety of aircraft at the Aircraft Structural Test and Evaluation Center, part of the National Institute for
Aviation Research. The experience prepares him for a career in the field of aerospace.
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 working as an intern at NIAR (National Institute for Aviation Research), specifically at ASTEC (Aircraft Structural Test and Evaluation Center) in Park City. I maintain accountability of all aircraft pieces as they move throughout
the facility, through a process that can range from six to 12 steps. From disassembly
all the way to storage, I know where each specific piece is.
How long do you expect to work in your current position?
I started this internship on June 17 of 2021, and I plan to work until graduation.
How did you learn about this opportunity?
I learned about this opportunity through the ROTC Program at Wichita State
How is this experience helping you build your resume and prepare you for your career?
This internship has been a fantastic way to take my first steps in the larger aerospace
industry by giving me real-world experience in an engineering position.
How have your classes and experiences at Wichita State prepared you to succeed in
this applied-learning opportunity?
Classes in the aerospace department really helped me to prepare for this position.
Because of classes like Structures and Fundamentals of Flight, I have a good indication
of the purpose, name, and placement on the aircraft of any specific part I see.
What advice would you give other students who are looking for hands-on experiences
in their major while they finish college?
Keep your eyes and options open and be patient. Opportunities will present themselves
if you seek them out.
