High school student learns life skills while interning with Corporate Division

After two successful years as a Martin Marietta intern, one standout student is heading to college.

After two successful years as a Martin Marietta intern, one standout student is heading to college.

Sergio Campos Arenas, a recent graduate of Cristo Rey Research Triangle High School in Durham, North Carolina, has earned his diploma and begun his undergraduate journey. But before donning his cap and gown, Arenas spent his junior and senior years making a lasting impression as an intern at Martin Marietta’s corporate office.

“I learned so much at Martin Marietta,” Arenas said. “A lot of us go to college to get experience working in a professional field like this. And here I am, graduating high school and already learning skills that I’ll take into the real world.”

Arenas was one of four Cristo Rey students who participated in the internship program through a partnership between Martin Marietta and the school, which offers students from families with limited financial resources a high-quality education that prepares them for college and beyond. A key part of the school’s mission is integrating rigorous academics with meaningful professional work experience.

Arenas’ internship delivered on that promise. During his time at Martin Marietta, the teen worked with multiple departments, including Information Services, Human Resources, Talent Acquisition and Communications. He also gained hands-on experience with engineers, accountants and team members at the company’s Garner Lab.

Arenas said his projects ranged from computer system setup and maintenance to writing, proofreading, digital design and project organization. Each assignment helped him build skills that strengthened his professional development as well as his college applications.

“I wrote about my time at Martin Marietta a lot in my applications,” he said. “But even beyond my essays, I’m just so happy to work at a place like this. When I tell my mom what I’m learning in the office, she’s proud of me and that makes me feel great.”

This fall, Arenas will proudly become a 49er at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he plans to major in accounting. His decision came after careful consideration of offers from seven other universities, including the University of Pittsburgh, East Carolina University and Appalachian State University.

Martin Marietta HR Manager Michelle Bullock, who coordinates the company’s support of the internship program, praised Arenas’ dedication and said he showed exceptional growth throughout his time with the company.

“Sergio brought enthusiasm, curiosity and professionalism to every task,” Bullock said. “He’s a shining example of what this program is all about, which is giving students real-world experience that empowers them to achieve their future career goals.”

During Cristo Rey’s graduation ceremony in June, Arenas received the Spirit of St. Ignatius Award, which honors a student who exemplifies purpose, compassion and integrity.

“I will never forget my time at Martin Marietta,” he said. “I’m just in awe of this place and how professional everyone is. I’m manifesting a job like this after college.”