HEI offers a variety of internship opportunities that translate to future employment possibilities. Four employees—Jonas Mitzel, Sam Ihrke, Ted Bridges, and Ryan Winkel—have transformed their internships into full-time positions. Learn more about these four employees below!
Jonas Mitzel
Jonas Mitzel worked as an intern with our survey team for the last three summers. He will be working as a full-time civil engineer in our Bismarck office. He recently graduated from the University of Mary and holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering.
Fun Facts
- Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, being outdoors, spending time with friends, and sports.
- Most Memorable Place Visited: New York City.
- Favorite Sports Team: Minnesota Vikings.
- Best Weekend Activity: Going fishing and hanging out on the river.
- Currently Watching: The Office.
- Random Fact: During the first game of the state class B basketball tournament in his senior year of high school, Jonas ruptured his spleen.
- Best Advice Ever Heard: You only live once!
Sam Ihrke
Sam Ihrke has spent three summers interning alongside our surveying and transportation teams. He will be working as a full-time civil engineer in our Fargo office. Sam recently graduated from South Dakota State University and holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering.
Fun Facts
- Hobbies: Fishing, water sports, gaming, and weightlifting.
- Pets: German shepherd named Delta and red golden retriever named Banks.
- Most Memorable Place Visited: Alaska.
- Favorite Foods: Lasagna and chicken alfredo.
- Favorite Podcast: Crime Junkie.
- I cheer for the: Minnesota Vikings and the Duke Blue Devils.
- Top Destination on Must-Visit List: Greece.
- I’m excited to be part of the HEI team because I have enjoyed my last three summers with HEI and have learned so much. I’m excited to continue with a company and staff that has treated me so well.
Ted Bridges
Ted Bridges worked alongside various engineers as an intern for the past two summers. He will be working as a full-time civil engineer in our Des Moines office. Ted is from West Branch, IA, and recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville where he earned a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering.
Fun Facts
- Hobbies: Golfing, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
- Most Memorable Place Visited: Puerto Rico.
- Favorite Sports Team: Iowa State Cyclones.
- Random Fact: I am left-handed.
- Favorite Food: BBQ.
- I’m excited to be part of the HEI team because I’m looking forward to working in a close-knit office atmosphere and having many opportunities for my career and personal growth.
Ryan Winkel
Ryan Winkel was an intern last summer. He will be working as a full-time civil engineer in our Omaha office. Ryan is a native of Parker, CO, and recently graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where he earned his bachelor’s degree in biological systems engineering.
Fun Facts
- Hobbies: Golfing, fishing, hockey, and tennis.
- Pets: I have a border collie/Alaskan malamute named Marley and a box turtle.
- Most Memorable Place Visited: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
- Most Memorable Concerts: Kenny Chesney and Thomas Rhett.
- Currently Watching: The Office and Parks and Rec.
- I cheer for the: Huskers, Colorado Avalanche, Denver Broncos, and Denver Nuggets.
- Random Fact: I am left-handed.