Hudson Chase November 9, 2025
During my two internships with the general contracting company Fortis, I participated in two onboarding sessions and six months of intern training. Each onboarding week introduced new hires to company culture, safety expectations, and project goals, while the ongoing intern sessions connected us with experienced industry professionals. These programs were engaging and built a sense of belonging, as we compared workloads, shared challenges, and collaborated. This experience demonstrated how effective onboarding makes employees feel valued and supported from the start, promoting motivation and connection to the organization’s mission. Successful onboarding helps new hires internalize company values and adapt to job demands through stages of anticipation, encounter, and understanding.
One of the most beneficial parts of Fortis’s training was the mix of hands on learning and continuous support. Software training in RS Means and hazardous materials handling applied the principles of meaningful and relevant training. The company also encouraged independent learning through LinkedIn Learning subscriptions, allowing interns to build skills at their own pace. This aligns with the idea that effective onboarding and training extend beyond the first few days and should continue through structured follow ups and mentorship.
Overall, the Fortis onboarding and training program was an effective blend of socialization, hands on practice, and personal development, showing how well designed experiences can shape a successful transition into the professional world.
