Building Futures: High School STEM Intern Explores Engineering at Goddard Technologies

At Goddard Technologies, we believe in investing in innovation, not just in the products we design, but in the people who will shape the future of engineering. This spring, we had the pleasure of hosting Ella Twomey, a senior at Landmark High School, for a three-week internship that blended creativity, technical skills, and real-world experience.

Ella’s internship is part of our broader commitment to empowering local students through hands-on STEM learning. As a product development consultancy, we know that early exposure to engineering can spark lifelong curiosity, and Ella’s story is proof of that.

A Passion for STEM and Engineering

Ella came to us with a clear interest in science and math. “I love science and have discovered my passion for engineering over the past couple of years,” she shared. 

Inspired by a former Landmark student who interned with Goddard Technologies, Ella joined us to explore the professional world of engineering firsthand. “Everything I learned about the company from the school—especially its portfolio, values, and work environment—appealed to me,” she said.

From Idea to Prototype

Rather than shadowing from the sidelines, Ella took on a complete design project: creating a modular desk organizer. She led the process from start to finish, beginning with brainstorming and sketching ideas, then modeling her concept in SolidWorks, building cardboard mock-ups, and ultimately 3D printing the final design.

Her final product consisted of three modular pieces that can be moved and rearranged, combining function with creativity. “I went through the entire engineering process,” Ella explained. “It was amazing to see an idea in my head turn into something I could hold in my hands.”

STEM Internship Lessons in Collaboration and Confidence

Ella’s time at Goddard Technologies wasn’t just about technical skills; it was about personal growth, too. Reflecting on how much she had learned in just a few short weeks, she said, “One thing that surprised me was how broad mechanical engineering is. I thought it was just working on cars, but it turns out it’s a lot more. And I was surprised by how many people work on one project and how many ideas get scrapped before the final product.”

One of the most meaningful moments came during her final presentation to the Goddard team. “It showed me how far I’ve come,” Ella said. 

The experience also helped Ella clarify her career direction. “I knew I wanted to go into engineering, but I didn’t know what type. This internship helped me see how interesting and varied mechanical engineering really is. Now I’m even more excited to study mechanical engineering and physics in college.”

Advice for Future STEM Interns

Ella leaves Goddard with new confidence, a clearer career path, and practical experience she’ll carry into college and beyond. Her biggest takeaway? “Teamwork is important! Having others look at your work will help you improve it. Be open to feedback. The goal is the best end product, not whose idea it was.”

When asked what advice she’d offer to future interns, Ella said:

“Soak it all in. The experience you’ll gain is just as important as any classroom lesson. The people around you know what they’re talking about, so by talking with them and listening, you can learn a lot. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

An Inspiring Partnership

We’re proud to have played a part in Ella’s journey and are grateful to Landmark High School for fostering such motivated and capable students. Experiences like this remind us of the importance of community partnerships and mentorship. They allow us to give back while helping shape the next generation of engineers and designers.

How would Ella sum up her internship at Goddard in three words?
“Amazing, valuable, and inspiring.”

If Goddard Technologies were a high school class?
“Science—because it’s the most fun and interesting subject of them all.”

We couldn’t agree more.