Our Student Team's Summer Recap

For us college students, summer is one of the most anticipated seasons of the year. With potential for new internships, exciting cross country roadtrips, and long days spent on Lake Superior, the plethora of directions that life can decide to take us is one thrill of an experience. Plus, after surviving a full year of college classwork paired with a classic Upper Peninsula winter, a shift in both weather and pace of life is always greeted with open arms.

A neat aspect about the Invent@NMU program is that many of us continue our part-time work throughout the summertime, which allows us to continue growing our skills while chasing spur-of-the-moment, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Talk about work-life balance!

Want to learn how we spent our summer? Read below to find out:

Maintaining Mountain Bike Trails

Anthony Mirabella, Mechanical Engineering Technologist

These past few months, Anthony has been working as an intern in the front range of Colorado for the Colorado Mountain Bike Association (COMBA). In this role, Anthony worked in a crew of eight called “Strike Force” that was dedicated to mountain bike trail and conservation. For projects, Anthony and his team implored techniques that utilized rock and dirt to prevent erosion, build berms, kickers and other features.

“The team itself I worked with has been the most memorable this summer. We have made some great bonds and life lasting memories which I am truly grateful for.” – Anthony Mirabella

Traveling to the Keweenaw Peninsula

Emma Warfel, Project Manager

This summer, Emma made her return to Michigan’s Copper Harbor, but this time with her dog, Luna, and her good friends, Eric and Erica! Emma enjoyed her time by hiking through the woods, swimming in the lake, and getting into deep conversations about life around the campfire. They all got a kick out of Luna’s silly interactions with nature as she is not very accustomed to the outdoors.

“The most memorable part of this trip was taking Luna to her first waterfall. She wanted to hop in and search for fish even though she HATES swimming. This was her first camping trip and she loved the hiking and exploring we did. She was so pooped after our trip that she slept the entire day after we got home.” – Emma Warfel

3D Printing Handy Household Items

64235107891--89406421-87BB-401C-8E3C-07809AE213DC (1)

Eric Prue, Industrial Designer

Inside and outside of the Invent@NMU office, Eric can be found designing and 3D printing products. When he’s not printing prototypes for our clients, Eric likes to spend his time flexing his designer muscles by creating household objects that he needs instead of purchasing them at the store. This summer, Eric printed a number of useful items including a shower caddy, toilet paper roll holder and milk crates.

“The best thing about 3D printing, in my eyes, is being able to create an idea in your head, design it in a modeling software and only a couple hours later have that object or design in your hand. It’s really rewarding seeing your ideas come to life.” – Eric Prue

Working and Highlining: A True Balancing Act

Micah Carroll, Creative Writing Assistant

In addition to his writing role with Invent@NMU, this summer Micah worked full time behind the counter of Marquette’s famous Phil’s 550 store. At Phil’s 550, Micah was responsible for all day-to-day operations, printing shirts and writing PG-13 jokes on the store sign. Through working at both Invent@NMU and Phil’s 550, Micah feels more connected to the Marquette community than ever before. Although work was the focus of his summer, Micah was able to attend a national gathering of highline walkers in northern Minnesota.

“I have had the privilege to sneak away to the north shore of Lake Superior twice this summer to rock climb and walk across highlines. In my most recent trip, I attended the Northern Minnesota Slackline Gathering, where 30+ slackliners from across the nation gathered on the coast of Lake Superior to share stories and memories that will last a lifetime.” – Micah Carroll

Building and Riding a Mountain Bike

Kevin Dinser, Marketing Assistant

Kevin spent every moment he could this summer building and riding mountain bikes. Mountain biking is by far one of Kevin’s favorite pastimes. He enjoys pushing his limits in mountain biking and the rules-free nature of the activity. The most memorable ride of the summer was the first time he took the new bike he built out for a ride on his favorite trails.

“When I ride, I feel like I can focus on one thing and one thing only. It allows me to forget about all of the other things in my life and to enjoy pushing my limits in the moment.” – Kevin Dinser

Exploring the North Shore of Lake Superior

Sarah Gimpl, Marketing Assistant

This past summer, Sarah and her cousin took a road trip to the North Shore of Lake Superior where they spent some time at Two Harbor’s Pebble Beach, located right by the famous Split Rock Lighthouse. Here they collected unique rocks for their aunt’s crafts that are inspired by the North Shore. Sarah’s favorite North Shore memory includes driving along Scenic Drive listening to good music and drinking a hot cup of coffee from Cedar Coffee Company.

“The North Shore is similar to Marquette in many ways—I think that’s why I love Marquette so much! There is a wonderful balance of city and nature with Lake Superior within walking distance from my favorite small businesses. Duluth is always having fun events with art, music, and food right by the pier. It reminds me of Marquette’s local events in the summer!” – Sarah Gimpl

Our student team is filled with diverse backgrounds, passions, and skill sets. Want to meet the team that can take your idea to the next level? Click here.

Our Student Team’s Summer Recap