For 23-year-old Gunner Harris, what began as a summer internship has now blossomed into a full-time career at Savannah River Mission Completion (SRMC), marking a significant milestone in his professional journey.
Harris, a native of Aiken, S.C., earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Engineering from the University of South Carolina.
In 2022, he joined SRMC’s first-ever internship program as a Defense Waste Process Facility (DWPF) process and regulatory intern.
During his summer internship, Harris gained hands-on experience working alongside seasoned engineers, assisting with monitoring and improving operations.
The opportunity to contribute to the Department of Energy’s mission at the Savannah River Site (SRS) left a lasting impression on him, according to a press release from SRMC.
At the conclusion of the program, he was offered a permanent position with SRMC, a testament to his valuable contributions.
“When we were interns, we were told that we were part of eliminating the greatest environmental hazard in South Carolina,” Harris said. “That was my ‘a-ha’ moment. I realized I was making a meaningful impact, and I was excited to return and continue my journey.”
Now working full-time, Harris plays a pivotal role in the SRS Tank Farms, where he serves as a sludge batch lead and system health coordinator, according to a press release from SRMC.
His responsibilities include managing space within the Tank Farms, ensuring compliance with procedures, and assisting in waste tank efforts.
While his current role differs from his internship at DWPF, Harris said the evolution of his responsibilities has been fulfilling.
“I really enjoyed my time as an intern, but I wanted to explore other areas of SRMC,” he said. “I’ve found my place within my department. My team is incredible, and I love the work I do.”
In an inspiring twist, Harris is now mentoring an intern of his own. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity, urging interns to ask questions and learn as much as possible.
“SRMC internships are about being a learner first and a contributor second,” Harris said. “I always tell interns there are no stupid questions. I was once in their shoes, and now it’s my turn to help guide them.”
Harris’ journey at SRMC is not only about advancing his career, but also about paying it forward and ensuring future generations are equipped to carry on the company’s mission to tackle environmental challenges at the Savannah River Site, according to a press release from SRMC.
