At City High, we love seeing our students take on new challenges, discover their passions, and turn summer opportunities into real-world career stepping stones. This trimester's internship highlight, Vanessa Goetz (Class of 2027), did just that during her time with our partner site, BotsIQ. After proving her talent, dedication, and work ethic during her initial internship, Vanessa was officially hired through the Partner4Work Learn & Earn program!

From day one, Vanessa fully immersed herself in daily operations, building a powerful foundation in both software design and physical engineering hands-on. Throughout her time at BotsIQ she:

• Mastered 3D Modeling: Learned and utlizied OnShape 3D modeling software to design custom projects.
• Programmed Robotics: Coded robots using Python and worked directly with a cobot (collaborative robot) arm to automate technical tasks.
• Expanded Technical Skills: Executed precision soldering, learning circuit design, operated a laser cutter, and mastered industry-standard tools and vocabulary.

Entering as the only female pre-apprentice and starting slightly behind some of her peers, Vanessa met every challenge head-on. She embraced every obstacle with grace, thriving in an environment where every day brought something new to learn.

While she thoroughly enjoyed the hands-on manufacturing aspects of her work, the experience helped spark a major career realization. Vanessa discovered a true passion for logic, problem-solving, and design components of engineering. This revelation solidified her dream to pursue a future in Civil Engineering.

Beyond her technical growth, Vanessa built critical professional habits. She developed strong self-motivation, responsibility, independence, and daily focus. Vanessa also greatly improved her public speaking skills and grew confident asking critical, insightful questions.

Vanessa's mentors at BotsIQ, Ms. Suzanne Gloekler and Mr. Todd Landree, offered glowing feedback about her contributions. They highlighted her as open-minded, adaptable, extremely enjoyable to work with, and always eager to tackle any task thrown her way. To support Vanessa's ongoing journey toward Civil Engineering, her mentors helped map out a strategic roadmap for her future growth. They noted that she was a consistent asset to the team—qualities that made hiring her through Learn & Earn a natural next step!

We are incredibly proud of Vanessa for proving what is possible through hard work, grit, and curiosity. We also extend a huge thank you to BotsIQ for partnering with our school to provide such transformative career opportunities for our students.

Congratulations, Vanessa on your position at BotsIQ and your exciting path ahead in Civil Engineering!