Meet Mehak Naeem and Bianca Arena, two former ENERGY interns who recently made the leap to full-time employees. The ENERGY Team had the pleasure of sitting down with the pair to discuss their experience at the company and what they hope to achieve in their new roles. We also have a little fun at the end of the interview to allow you to get to know the pair a little better.
So, without further ado, here is our interview with Mehak and Bianca.
What did you study and how does it relate to your experience at ENERGY?
Bianca: I completed a three-year program in Accounting Management Technology. I really enjoyed my studies because it was a well-rounded program. There was a diverse range of courses offered in the program, covering a range of topics, and I learned so much. It was really a bit of everything, and I loved it.
At ENERGY, I started as an accounting intern. Now that I’m full-time, I’m an accounting technician. My daily tasks include auditing, bank reconciliation, and other interesting projects that come up.
Mehak: I am currently a second-year student studying Supply Chain and Operations Management at the John Molson School of Business. I will be graduating in 2022, so I am extremely grateful to have some practical and hands-on experience in the world of logistics and supply chain management.
As a logistics coordinator in the ENERGY warehouse, I’m working in with the warehouse manager to optimize our WMS system and help out wherever I can.
What do you like about working here?
Bianca: I have the unique experience of working with my mom since she also works at ENERGY, so I had a fairly good idea of what to expect. I knew before I started that everyone was easy to talk to and that management was open to new ideas and new ways of doing things.
I think what I like the most about working at ENERGY is that it’s not a top-down approach to decision making. They include you in the process and I really appreciate that.
Mehak: The people at ENERGY have been nothing but kind, welcoming and helpful to me since joining the company in May. I was blessed with an amazing team and manager. It can be scary for a student to enter their chosen career world, but I never felt afraid while working at ENERGY.
The employees and management are resourceful and approachable. Everyone’s values are respected, and our ideas are heard. I appreciate that I can work in an environment where my efforts are valued, and I can contribute to the growth of the company.
What were your first impressions of ENERGY?
Bianca: On my first day, my boss and coworkers were not here so I met a lot of staff outside my department. I gained a lot of great insight on how the company functions and the goals of other departments.
My big takeaway from my first day was that everyone was so down to earth, and they made me feel included right away.
Mehak: My first impression of ENERGY was that the company has a great mission statement: Driven to be different. And to this day I still try to live by this mission statement in the work that I produce within the organization. Why not be different?
Do you have a favourite moment?
Bianca: There have been many, but my favourite days are when we have team lunches or when there is a staff birthday and we all celebrate.
Mehak: It was most definitely when I transferred over from an intern to a full-time employee at ENERGY.
I worked with an amazing team throughout the summer, and it was truly a “pinch me I must be dreaming” moment.
What are you hoping to achieve at ENERGY?
Bianca: My goal is to gain insight in every aspect of the company because when you better understand how other departments function, you’re able to do your own job a little better.
Mehak: I am hoping to have the opportunity to use my problem solving, operations, and project implementation skills to further contribute to the growth of ENERGY.
Along with growth, I am excited to see what learning opportunities the organization can provide me. Overall, I am always up for a challenge.
Why should someone consider and internship at ENERGY?
Bianca: We have such a great atmosphere. Everyone instantly clicks when they walk in the door. It’s so easy to connect the people at ENERGY. Even the bosses, Shawn and Michael are so easy to talk to.
Mehak: The company culture is excellent. Your opinions matter. You will always feel welcomed and valued.
What’s your dream job?
Bianca: I like the nitty-gritty details of accounting so I would have to say my dream job would be an auditor.
Mehak: I love to cook so I would be lying if I said I never thought about being a chef one day.
Animal you identify with most and why?
Bianca: Cheetah because I’m serious and fast.
Mehak: A lioness because I’m creative, strategic, and strong.
Favourite ice cream flavour:
Bianca: Cookie dough.
Mehak: Chocolate.
