At the beginning of the summer, if you had asked me what a pipe fitting was, I would have stared at you like a deer in headlights. However, now, after spending the past few months as Sonnhalter’s Public Relations intern, I can confidently say I’ve been immersed in a whole new world of manufacturing and the skilled trades that have engrossed me in a new industry and made me a stronger communicator.
As a Strategic Communication major at The Ohio State University, I came into this internship with a foundation in writing, marketing and public relations from my classes and what I didn’t have was the opportunity to apply those skills in a real-world setting. At Sonnhalter, I learned that every project was a chance to think creatively, adapt my writing and understand how much marketing and communication helps manufacturers connect with their audiences.
Throughout the summer, I worked on a variety of projects, from writing blogs and press releases to creating social media content and graphics. Every assignment introduced me to something new in the tradespeople world, whether it was a new product, or an intriguing industry conference. Before this internship, I knew very little about the plumbing and HVAC industries. By the end of the summer, I have developed not only a greater appreciation for the skilled trades but also a genuine interest in the innovation that drives them.
Although my internship was fully remote, I never felt disconnected. Through regular meetings and continuous feedback, I always felt supported by the incredible Sonnhalter team. Their guidance helped me grow as both a writer and a marketing professional while also teaching me the importance of being organized and communicating effectively in a remote environment.
Looking back, I’m leaving Sonnhalter with much more than writing samples for my portfolio. I’m leaving with new skills, greater confidence and a perspective in a field I never expected to gain. Most importantly, I’m grateful to have worked alongside a team that encouraged me to learn and ask questions, without fear of judgement. This has been an experience I’ll carry with me throughout my career, and I am extremely grateful to have been onboard with Sonnhalter this summer!
