Investing in the Future: Welcoming Our 2026 Summer Interns

By Doug Hardin, P.E., President

Every summer, Tamarack Grove Engineering welcomes talented college students into our offices to gain hands-on experience in structural engineering and professional services. Our internship program provides aspiring engineers and business professionals with the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects while learning alongside experienced mentors.

At Tamarack Grove Engineering, we believe one of the best ways to strengthen the engineering profession is by investing in the next generation. Through mentorship, collaboration, and meaningful project work, our interns develop technical skills, professional confidence, and a deeper understanding of what it means to serve clients with excellence.

We're excited to introduce our 2026 Summer Interns.

Jacob Van Lith | Finance Intern

Born and raised in Boise, Idaho, Jacob is pursuing a degree in Business Finance at the University of Idaho. As Tamarack Grove Engineering's Finance Intern, he will gain hands-on experience supporting the financial operations that help drive project success while learning how strategic planning and sound financial management contribute to the growth of a structural engineering firm.

Jacob first connected with TGE through the Sielaff family, longtime family friends, and later reconnected with Brian at the University of Idaho Career Fair and Homecoming football game. Those conversations led him to explore internship opportunities and join the TGE team this summer.

Outside of work, Jacob enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors, especially fishing and snowboarding. While most of his adventures have taken him throughout the Pacific Northwest, he's looking forward to exploring more of the eastern United States. One of the most interesting discoveries he's made recently came through his family's genealogy research, where they connected with long-lost relatives and traced their family lineage back to the Netherlands.

Andrew Vernon | Engineering Intern

Born and raised in Boise, Idaho, Andrew is a rising senior at Boise State University studying Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Structural Engineering. His connection to Tamarack Grove Engineering began through a mutual connection with Brian Sielaff and grew after meeting members of our team at the Clays for a Cause sporting clay fundraiser.

Throughout the summer, Andrew will work alongside our structural engineers, gaining hands-on experience in structural design, project coordination, and the collaborative process of delivering successful structural engineering projects for clients across the country.

When he's not studying engineering, Andrew enjoys hiking, hunting, riding motorcycles, and spending time tinkering in his garage. He's also an avid fan of The Lord of the Rings, having read the books nearly a dozen times and able to quote much of the movie trilogy from memory.

Mitchell Thompson | Engineering Intern

Mitchell brings a unique perspective to Tamarack Grove Engineering. Originally from Spokane, Washington, he served in the United States Marine Corps after graduating high school, including a deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Following his military service, he worked in several skilled trades, including as a certified structural welder, before returning to college to pursue a career in engineering.

Now entering his senior year at the University of Idaho, Mitchell is studying Civil Engineering and is eager to expand his knowledge through real-world structural engineering experience. He first connected with TGE after meeting Brian Sielaff at a University of Idaho engineering networking event and hearing positive feedback about the company from fellow student Colton Hinson.

Outside of engineering, Mitchell describes himself as a gearhead. He enjoys riding and working on his Harley-Davidson Low Rider S, modifying his Subaru WRX, and tackling mechanical projects whenever he can. He also serves as the newly elected captain of the University of Idaho ASCE Steel Bridge Team after helping the team earn second place in the cost estimation category at this year's regional competition. He looks forward to applying what he learns at TGE as he leads next year's team.

Why Engineering Internships Matter

Engineering internships create opportunities that benefit both students and employers. Students gain practical experience, exposure to professional engineering practices, and mentorship from licensed engineers. Companies benefit from fresh perspectives, new ideas, and the opportunity to help develop future leaders in the engineering profession.

At Tamarack Grove Engineering, our internship program reflects our commitment to Building Relationships by Serving Others. Every project, conversation, and learning opportunity helps prepare students for successful careers while strengthening the future of structural engineering.

Welcome to the TGE Team

We're proud to welcome Jacob, Andrew, and Mitchell to Tamarack Grove Engineering. Their unique backgrounds, experiences, and enthusiasm for learning will make them valuable members of our team this summer.

We look forward to supporting their professional growth and watching them take the next step in their engineering and business careers.

Welcome to TGE!