Internship an eye-opening experience for Schulich master's student

Second-year Master of Engineering student Mayor Akinfenwa is gaining hands-on experience through a 16-month internship with Thermal Systems KWC, where he works as a product development engineer. 

Akinfenwa is an international student from Nigeria, who chose the Schulich School of Engineering at the University of Calgary because “it has a great track record.”  

“I’ve had a few friends and colleagues who have passed through Schulich, and it seemed like the right fit for me,” he says.  

Akinfenwa’s days move between design, testing and research — work he describes as understanding “how the product works, the competition, the technical aspects, engineering, testing.” 

It didn’t take long to see the impact of his contributions. 

“The most rewarding part is the knowledge,” says Akinfenwa, whose major is mechanical engineering. “I feel like I’m doing something substantial and it matters.” 

The Schulich School has added a new internship component designed for master’s students. For Akinfenwa, the opportunity has become a defining part of his graduate experience. 

Discovering his place in our engineering community 

Thermal Systems KWC develops materials and systems used across the full construction life cycle, but what stood out most to Akinfenwa was the company’s culture. 

“I have not met a company that valued safety as much as here, and I really appreciate it,” he says. 

Coming from previous work experiences, the strong emphasis on safety and mentorship has been a welcome change. Akinfenwa says guidance from colleagues has helped him grow more confident, particularly as he takes on responsibilities beyond his comfort zone. 

While his primary focus is product development from design to testing, the role also includes a sales component, challenging him to gain new skills. 

Encouraging others to pursue career-changing opportunities 

Asked whether he would recommend the internship program, Akinfenwa doesn’t hesitate. 

“Yes, I actually do recommend it,” he says. “It’s a good experience. It makes all the difference in building your career.” 

Akinfenwa’s advice to other master’s students considering an internship is straightforward. 

“Apply as much as you can,” he says. “Even if it feels like you’re not in the demographic they mentioned, you can still try, and you’ll probably still see some feedback.” 

For Akinfenwa, that approach opened the door to an experience that has shaped not only his degree, but also his life in Canada — one new skill, new place and new perspective at a time.