Chicago to Kentucky: Intern Insights from the JSSI Warehouse
Last week, we stepped away from our desks in Chicago and took off to visit JSSI’s Parts & Leasing Warehouse in Erlanger, Kentucky. For many of us, it was our first time in a warehouse, let alone working in one. Upon arrival, we were shocked by the volume of parts and components needed to run operations smoothly. We gained a new appreciation for JSSI’s complex procedures and operational excellence.
Throughout the week, we developed a deeper understanding of many moving parts that keep the warehouse running. From handling small components to working with engines and auxiliary power units (APUs), we immersed ourselves in real operations. This hands-on experience became a pivotal part of our internship – providing invaluable exposure to the maintenance service side of JSSI and our industry.
Declan Daleiden, an intern within the Parts & Leasing department, believes that this experience has played an essential role in his internship. He explained, “Being in the warehouse has enabled me to connect the dots between my work in the office and its impact on clients and operations. Seeing how the warehouse staff handles our products and how their work connects to the broader Parts & Leasing team, both inside and outside the warehouse, made the experience even more meaningful.”
Eden Melamed, this summer’s marketing intern, shares how valuable the trip was from her perspective: “I was able to understand how this product line operates and how parts are delivered to clients. Seeing the logistics firsthand gave me clarity on the specific products we are marketing. This insight has been helpful in my ability to communicate the value of Parts & Leasing as we develop campaigns back at the office in Chicago.”
Philipe Figueiredo, Vice President of Business Development for JSSI Parts & Leasing, has had similar experiences early in his professional journey. He recalled, “Having started my own career as an intern working with parts, I truly appreciate this initiative. It’s a meaningful way to help our interns understand how the company operates and supports their growth and development within the industry.” Today, Philipe has over 25 years of leadership experience in the industry. “My first experience visiting the JSSI warehouse was truly positive. I’m proud of the structure we have in place to support our customers and deliver real value.”
Not only were we making an impact at the warehouse, but we also had a great time along the way! The warehouse team’s guidance and support made each moment special, and even now, a week later, we still find ourselves reminiscing about the stories and laughs we shared. The team devoted time to answering questions and walked us through their procedures and routines.
Courtney Cairo, a JSSI client services intern, comments: “I was blown away by the warehouse team. They are incredibly hardworking, always willing to help, and made me feel like part of the team from the first day we got there. I learned so much by working side-by-side with everyone.” The people truly made the place, and the warehouse team created an atmosphere in which learning was fun.
Beyond our time in the actual warehouse, we were able to explore the city and attend a Cincinnati Reds game! It was amazing to have the opportunity to experience the local culture and take in the atmosphere of the ballpark. We enjoyed great company, an exciting game, and delicious food.
Kenya Handfield, client services intern, summarizes her experience: “I especially enjoyed talking to each person on the floor — every team member was able to provide a detailed overview of their responsibilities and how we serve our global client base. Overall, I really appreciated this experience, and I would absolutely recommend all future interns to visit the warehouse.”
Eden, who wrote this blog in collaboration with the intern group, reflects: “This unique opportunity was valuable in so many ways, and writing this blog has been a nostalgic joy. We are grateful to everyone who made this week both meaningful and fun. Thank you for making it such a memorable chapter in our internship.”
