About the author: Hola, all! My name is Zak and I just exhausted all of the Spanish I know. I am from Watonga, Okla., which is located in the northwestern part of the state. I am currently attending Oklahoma State University studying Management Science and Information Systems. I was chosen to be a part of the summer internship program placed in Oklahoma City with the Volume Management- Pipeline Control group. I also love exercising, playing video games, and making sub-par jokes.
Going into the program, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Coming from small-town Oklahoma, I knew the oil and natural gas industries were a huge part of our economy. However, I didn’t realize the potential the natural gas industry holds until I attended the Intern Institute program located at the Tulsa headquarters. The three-day institute was really a great opportunity for all of the 2015 interns to come together in one location to get to know one another and learn about how our upcoming roles align with the One Williams mission. Upon departure, I knew I had an exciting chance to absorb information about the industry and grow not only as a young professional but also as a person.
Midway through the internship, I can confirm that I have already been taught so much but still have much more to learn. Williams gives the perfect balance of guidance as well as independence. I was given a mentor, Brian, to help direct and assist me if I have troubles with any tasks or projects. However, the program also places a lot of value on freedom of personal work as well. Although I am learning, I am still truly treated with the same respect as a full time employee. I have been asked not only to give my opinions, but also to showcase my skillset and apply it towards my job every single day. I really get the sense that Williams is one big family. It’s very satisfying to know that my contributions during my time here will be used to benefit business as a whole.
I am very thankful I was given the opportunity to intern with this company. Williams has shown that just because a company looks big from the outside, doesn’t mean any employee should feel that they are little on the inside.