What started as a simple tour with the FWCS Career Academy has turned into a journey of professional growth for one Indiana Tech sophomore.
Matt Neraasen first visited Shar Systems through the FWCS Career Academy at Anthis, looking for internship opportunities in TIG welding. The experience led to him joining the team through the career academy program while completing his senior year of high school. Since starting in January 2024, he has developed skills in both TIG and MIG welding, working with stainless steel and carbon steel, while also gaining experience in fabrication and assembly work.
The scope of Shar's projects were somewhat of a surprise to Neraasen. "I didn't expect to be on top of a tank, on a manlift with a harness, or hand putting together giant tanks," he says, describing the scale and complexity of Shar's industrial mixing systems.
While the technical skills are valuable, it's the people that make the experience special. "The people," he says when asked about his favorite part of the job.
"Work is fun, but it's a lot more fun when the people around you make it better and care about being there."
Beyond the welding booth, he's gaining the kind of practical wisdom that doesn't come from textbooks. Learning from experienced professionals about how to approach problems and handle responsibilities has been just as valuable as perfecting his welding technique.
For other students exploring similar paths, he emphasizes how fun the experience has been, noting that the hardest part is having to leave when each internship period ends.
Now that his summer work has concluded, Neraasen will focus on his studies at Indiana Tech, but he hopes to rejoin the team during winter break. His academic focus is on mechanical engineering, with particular interest in design work. Looking toward graduation, his goals include finding opportunities to grow within fabrication and manufacturing, with aspirations of moving into an office-based role. Outside of work and studies, he stays active with lacrosse, golf, and fishing.
Matt's story highlights the value of programs like the FWCS Career Academy in connecting students with real career opportunities. What began as an educational tour has evolved into meaningful work experience that's shaping his future in manufacturing and engineering. We're proud to have played a part in Matt's professional development and grateful for his contributions to our team.
