Szczesny Lipinski

Majors: Multidisciplinary Engineering (Concentration: Theatre Engineering); Theater Design and Production

Technical Design Intern, Adirondack Scenic Studios

1.) How did you learn about this internship opportunity?

I learned about this internship opportunity through industry networking within the Purdue Theatre
Department. One of my professors has a contact at Adirondack Scenic Studios (ADK). He shared
the contact information for the head of the Technical Design Department with my professor, who
shared it with his students. I had seen the company’s portfolio online and was amazed and excited
by the work ADK is doing. I reached out, introduced myself, and submitted my resume and
portfolio. 

2.) How has your internship helped build your skills and clarify your career goals?

As a theatre major, I spend considerable time working on theatre productions. These are typically
plays that take a couple of months to prepare and build but will only performed for two
weekends. Since starting at Adirondack Scenic Studios, I have had opportunities to work on less
traditional entertainment projects. My work has mainly focused on escape rooms. Escape rooms
have to be built to last and the approach to creating the designs requires significant attention to
detail. The scene shop is the biggest I have ever seen with many exciting tools and
resources. While they work in traditional materials such as wood and metal, they also work with
many types of materials that are new to me such as fiberglass. I am being exposed to many
amazing possibilities and am learning quickly. ADK is assisting me in growing my 3D drafting
and modeling skills. It has been amazing to see the parts I have drafted being constructed as I
walk through the shop. I have learned that I really enjoy working in a more traditional work
environment, while still being able to be a part of theatre and entertainment projects. ADK is
working on many interesting projects in all areas of entertainment including escape rooms, theme
parks, theatre, art exhibitions, and more. Every day feels like something new, exciting, and
different.

3.) How do you apply your Liberal Arts skills to your internship? 

My theatre training within the College of Liberal Arts has given me the basic background I use
every day. My introduction to drafting class and my introduction to shop tools classes help me
understand the construction techniques I work with daily in the shop. My broader Liberal Arts
background has taught me how to communicate and work with people from a large variety of
backgrounds. Part of my job requires me to serve as an intermediary between designers and the
craftsmen on the shop floor. My Liberal Arts experience has given me skills to navigate and
translate material from artistic to technical.

4.) What is a piece of advice you would give someone looking for an internship?

If you are looking for an internship, never let an opportunity pass by. Use your professors as
resources. Build good relationships with them and they will do everything they can to help you,
You never know when they will forward you an opportunity or contact information that could be
perfect. Also never be scared to reach out to a company. Sometimes just putting your name and
resume out there is the spark it takes to make the connection that leads to an internship.