Intern Technician - Topeka ThinkBIG Electric Power Generation (EPG) 2027
Internship will begin June 2027.
About the role
The Caterpillar ThinkBIG Electric Power Generation (EPG) program offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring diesel technicians. Through this program, you'll receive comprehensive training, earn an Associate of Applied Science degree, and gain over 2,000 hours of valuable work experience. The program is a partnership with WSU Tech in Wichita, Kansas.
As a ThinkBIG Electric Power Generation (EPG) Intern Technician at Foley, you'll embark on a rewarding journey that blends practical experience with academic learning:
- Hands-on Environment: Learn by working directly on state-of-the-art Caterpillar® equipment both at school and during your paid internship at your nearest Foley location.
- Paid Internship: Earn while you learn! All intern hours worked at a Foley location are compensated.
- Rotational Structure: Alternate between your ThinkBIG School and your local Foley location, with rotations typically lasting 7 to 8 weeks each for comprehensive industry exposure.
- Year-Round Commitment: The program spans two years, allowing consistent skill and knowledge development.
- Housing Requirement: Students must arrange for housing during both school and internship rotations (on or near the school campus and in close proximity to their local Foley location).
Responsibilities
- Adhere to Foley's culture, prioritizing safety above all else.
- Work closely with experienced mentors to develop a solid understanding of system workings, procedures, processes, and safety requirements.
- Perform disassembly, assembly, and testing of generator components.
- Use resistive load bank equipment for generator testing and repairs.
- Carry out repairs and preventive maintenance on power generation assemblies.
- Diagnose and troubleshoot issues, providing minor repair on gensets.
- Attend, participate, and learn in school, maintaining minimum program grade requirements and remaining in good standing with the school and ThinkBIG program.
- Complete and submit all required assignments, including those involving the internship.
- Occasionally travel for training purposes and/or to assist at other Foley locations.
Requirements
- Dependability: Demonstrate excellent attendance and punctuality both at school and during the internship.
- Education: Possess a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
- Curiosity and Learning Attitude: Embrace the opportunity to participate in and absorb the assigned technical curriculum for Caterpillar equipment.
- Long-term Vision: Seek a career path that offers stability and a promising future.
- Mechanical Aptitude: Meet initial mechanical and aptitude testing requirements, supported by previous automotive classes, military training, or a natural mechanical inclination.
Skills
- Mechanical Ability: Previous mechanical experience and a strong drive to excel in troubleshooting and continuous learning.
- Work Ethic and Teamwork: Exhibit a proven work ethic and a collaborative mindset.
- Desire for Growth: Show a genuine desire to learn from others and maintain a safe working environment.
- Confidence in Application: Demonstrate the ability to confidently apply newly acquired procedures, translating theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
Benefits
- Upon successful completion, participants may be considered for full-time Technician opportunities.
- Tools and toolbox worth approximately $10,000.
- 401(k) with matching.
- Scholarship opportunities.
- Stipend each semester to help offset school and living expenses.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- Work boot reimbursement.
- Prescription Safety Glasses reimbursement.
Physical & Working Requirements
This role involves hands-on mechanical work in a shop environment. The employee must be able to perform essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodation:
- Safely and repeatedly lift components weighing up to 115 pounds without assistance.
- Safely lift, carry, and lower components weighing up to 65 pounds without assistance.
- Climb on and off equipment and work at varying heights.
- Stand, bend, and work in physically demanding positions for extended periods.
- Safely operate tools and equipment.
About Foley Equipment
Foley Industries – Foley Equipment, Foley Power Solutions, Foley Rental, and SITECH Central – serves customers in Kansas and Western Missouri. With over nine decades of experience and a team of over 1,000 employees, Foley delivers exceptional service, top-quality parts and rentals, and sales support across Caterpillar and allied construction equipment, power generation solutions, and SITECH construction technology.