Thursdays with 3S: You Don’t Have to Grow Where You’re Planted
May 5, 2022
By Jeannie Qualls
Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Jordan Glover has found his way at Wichita
State and is helping other students do the same. He’s an aerospace engineering student,
an intern for 3S and a mentor for other engineering students at WSU.
“I feel that for personal growth to be able to happen, you have to get away from your
home city,” Glover says. “I felt like I’ve been growing myself here in Wichita.”
Glover found the 3S position on Handshake, the Shocker Career Accelerator called him
to set up an interview, and he’s been working as a certification engineering intern
ever since.
Glover’s role certifies different modifications on aircraft by following Federal Aviation
Administration guidelines. They research what has been done in the past, the best
available equipment, how and where a part has been installed before and their recommendations
moving forward. They culminate their research into a report that they then present
to clients.
“Not many aerospace engineers get to see the certification side of the engineering
process,” Glover says. “I think that’s one of the best things I’ve gained from this
experience.”
Glover said this position has helped him confirm that engineering was the right career
path for his future. He has big ambitions and goals like moving to another state and
exploring different kinds of engineering.
“I want to experience everything that I've learned within my field and all of my classes
to figure out where these applications fit within the job world,” Glover says. “I’ve
learned so much from this internship, and there’s a lot to gain from learning in a
non-class setting.”
Glover says he’s been able to share his experiences with his mentees in the College
of Engineering. He also says his 3S colleagues offer life advice and job guidance
during his internship. He’s happy to share those tips with other students and advice
he’s picked up on his own.
“Procrastination seems very easy until you get behind,” Glover advises. “You’re also
going to struggle in college if you don't have connections and don't have a social
life because you need that for your mental health. Find that friend group you can
grow with.”
Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience
with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.
For more information, contact theShocker Career Acceleratorat (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visitwichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita
State campus.