This summer, talented students from across our service territory joined Chesapeake Utilities to gain hands-on experience, build professional skills and explore future career paths. Through our new Intern Spotlight series, we’re introducing you to the individuals behind the intern badges, sharing their experiences, projects, career aspirations and what they’ve learned along the way.

First up is Natalia Barrera, a human resources intern whose passion for helping people, love of learning and positive outlook have made a lasting impression on her team.

When she began searching for an internship before her senior year of college, she was looking for an opportunity to gain real-world human resources experience and learn from professionals in the field. What she found at Chesapeake Utilities was much more than a résumé-building experience.

A sophomore at Florida State University, Natalia is pursuing a degree in human resource management and plans to continue her education by earning an MBA. She discovered Chesapeake Utilities’ HR internship opportunity through Handshake and was drawn to the Company’s strong reputation, professional growth opportunities and positive employee reviews.

“Everyone has welcomed me with open arms,” Natalia said. “People are excited to meet you, eager to help and always willing to share their knowledge. It’s been such a welcoming environment.”

One of Natalia’s most meaningful projects this summer has been helping create a new People Leaders Toolkit designed to support current and future people leaders. As part of the project, she interviewed managers across the Company to gather feedback, then helped build an easy-to-navigate SharePoint site that brings key resources together in one place.

“The design process has been my favorite part,” she said. “I love creating and building things, so seeing the site come together has been really rewarding.”

Along the way, Natalia has expanded her technical skills by learning SharePoint, UKG, Teams, Outlook and Copilot while also strengthening one of the most important skills for any HR professional: communication.

“I’ve become much more comfortable speaking with professionals and building connections,” she said.

Although this is her first HR internship, Natalia says the experience has already shaped how she views her future career, especially by deepening her understanding of how workplace culture supports employee success.

“This internship has shown me what a positive work environment can look like,” she said. “Everyone is kind, supportive and wants to see each other succeed. It has definitely raised my expectations for the kind of workplace I want to be part of.”

When asked what advice she would give future Chesapeake Utilities interns, Natalia didn’t hesitate.

“Don’t be afraid to talk to new people,” she said. “Everyone is your biggest supporter here. Build connections, keep a positive mindset and take advantage of every opportunity to learn.”

As her summer internship continues, Natalia says the relationships she’s built with her teammates and mentors will stay with her long after the experience ends.

“The connections and wisdom I’ve gained are what I’ll remember most,” she said. “People here genuinely care about helping you grow.”

And one fun fact her coworkers may not know? Natalia is an avid pickleball player and always ready for a match.

Here’s wishing Natalia continued success as she finishes her degree and pursues her future in human resources.