Growing Through Experience: A Look at TBEI’s Internship Program
For many college students, internships serve as the bridge between classroom learning and a future career. This summer, ten interns across five of TBEI’s family of brands experienced that transition firsthand, gaining meaningful exposure to departments including engineering, quality, manufacturing, accounting, and marketing, while contributing to projects that made a real impact on the business.
At Ox Bodies, University of Alabama student Dylan Marquess quickly discovered that engineering involves far more than technical knowledge. From investigating production issues to presenting findings to leadership, he was trusted with responsibilities that challenged him to think critically, collaborate with others, and contribute solutions. The experience gave him a greater appreciation for how teams work together to solve problems and improve processes. “Seeing real cooperation across teams and being able to work on projects that actually impact the company has been huge,” he said.
Engineering Intern Mason Stone at DuraClass found the internship provided an opportunity to see how concepts learned in the classroom translate to the manufacturing floor. Throughout the summer, he worked on 3D modeling, blueprints, and engineering projects while gaining firsthand experience in a production environment. More than anything, the internship helped him connect theory with application. “Seeing how designs actually get used on the shop floor is completely different than learning about them in a classroom”, he said, highlighting the value of hands-on experience.
Cassie Floyd, another DuraClass intern, gained a deeper understanding of manufacturing through an internship with the quality department. By creating standard operating procedures and observing production processes from start to finish, Cassie was able to see how every step contributes to the final product and overall customer satisfaction. “Working on SOPs has allowed me to see the entire manufacturing process from start to finish,” she said. The project offered a unique perspective on the business and provided opportunities to work closely with employees throughout the facility.
On the corporate side, University of Alabama student Harrison Franks experienced the breadth of TBEI’s business through the Corporate Marketing Internship. Supporting initiatives across 14 brands, Harrison worked on projects ranging from product launches and event promotion to survey analysis and research. The variety allowed him to develop new skills while gaining a broader understanding of how marketing supports business objectives. “Getting to work with 14 different brands means each need is unique to that company,” Franks said. “That variety created opportunities to learn something new every day.”
While their responsibilities varied, each intern described a similar experience: being trusted with meaningful work, encouraged to ask questions, and supported by teammates who were invested in their growth. Whether on the manufacturing floor, in an engineering office, or within the corporate marketing team, they were given opportunities to learn by doing and contribute in ways that extended beyond a typical internship.
Just as important as the projects themselves were the relationships built throughout the summer. Mentors and coworkers took the time to share their knowledge, answer questions, and provide guidance, creating an environment where interns felt comfortable learning and growing. That support helped each student gain confidence, develop professionally and better understand potential career paths.
As their internships come to a close, these students leave with more than hands-on experience. They leave with a stronger understanding of their fields, valuable professional connections and a clearer picture of what comes next. Their experiences reflect the purpose of TBEI’s internship program, providing meaningful opportunities for students to learn, contribute, and grow while preparing for successful careers after graduation. Applications for Summer 2027 should be posted at www.tbei/careers in late January 2027.
About Truck Bodies and Equipment International, Inc.
Truck Bodies and Equipment International, Inc. (TBEI), is a leading national and international designer, manufacturer and installer of medium- and heavy-duty dump bodies, dump trailers, platforms, and related truck body accessories. TBEI brands include Crysteel, Ox Bodies, Rugby, DuraClass, J-Craft, Travis, OSW Equipment & Repair, Western Truck Body, Northend Truck Equipment, Switch-N-Go, Bucks Fabricating, Roll-Off Parts.com, and Amerideck. TBEI is a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation. Visit us at www.tbei.com.
About Federal Signal Corporation
Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE: FSS) builds and delivers equipment of unmatched quality that moves material, cleans infrastructure, and protects the communities where we work and live. Founded in 1901, Federal Signal is a leading global designer, manufacturer and supplier of products and total solutions that serve municipal, governmental, industrial and commercial customers. Headquartered in Downer’s Grove, Ill., with manufacturing facilities worldwide, the Company operates two groups: Environmental Solutions and Safety and Security Systems. For more information on Federal Signal, visit: www.federalsignal.com.
