Unmasking the Gospel in 2021: Makenna, Engineering Intern

God can use any situation to draw you to his calling for your life. Makenna attended a winter conference not even realizing it was focused on missions and discovered that TWR might be a perfect fit for her as she was seeking an internship related to her academic pursuits. Although she’s always considered herself a shy person, Makenna is trusting God’s providence this summer in Guam to help her adjust to a new and exciting environment, as well as guide her in professional and spiritual growth.

Makenna grew up in a small town near Peoria, Illinois, and she currently attends Southern Illinois University. She will be graduating in December of 2021 with a degree in electrical engineering. This summer, she is working on the radio transmitters on the island of Guam for TWR. Makenna is excited to gain practical experience in engineering while making an impact for the gospel.

Q: How did you hear about TWR?

A friend and I decided to attend a virtual conference (Cross20) over winter break, not even realizing that the focus of the conference was missions, and TWR had an advertisement there. I thought it was awesome that there were people using their engineering backgrounds for missions, so I started looking into the organization.

Q: What caused you to get involved in the internship program with TWR?

I was looking for and applying to internships when I heard about TWR, and I noticed that they had an internship program, so I decided I’d apply and see where it led.

Q: What caused you to want to serve in Guam?

During the application process, I was told that the Guam team was interested in having an engineering intern, and it seemed like a great opportunity to see a part of creation that I’d never experienced before.

Q: Have you always been interested in missions?

Missions has always been something I’ve found incredibly important and exciting, and I loved hearing and reading missionary stories growing up. But, having always been a very shy (and admittedly awkward!) person, I didn’t really see myself in the role of my idea of a missionary, which was basically someone who was constantly starting conversations about God with random strangers. So, it was really exciting to realize that I could be a part of missions while still using the unique gifts and personality that God has given me.

Q: What projects are you going to be involved in?

I will be working on making a test system for the motor controller boards that tune the radio transmitters to the correct frequencies for broadcasting to various regions.

Q: Are there any challenges you have or anticipate experiencing? How will you face them?

I think it’s always a challenge to adjust to a new environment, but it’s helpful to remember why I’m here, and to see it as an adventure.

Q: What are you most looking forward to during your internship?

Everything! I’m excited to gain practical experience related to my major while also making an impact for the spread of the Gospel. The beach and mountains are definitely a plus too!

Q: What is your biggest goal for this summer?

My biggest goal for this summer is to grow. I hope to grow in my faith, in professional experience, in relationships and as a person in general.

Q: What are your post-college plans?

After college, I would like to go into the medical device or aerospace field.

Q: Fun fact: what’s the weirdest food you’ve ever eaten?

I think my dad made me try cow tongue once … I was not a big fan!