Kaylee Deloye '22

Operations Management Intern at Target

Major: Operations & Technology Management, Communications Minor

This summer, I worked at Target’s Hawaii Distribution Center as an Operations Management Intern. I found out about this internship through Target recruiters and applied because of my interest in business supply chains and curiosity about what distribution looks like at a major US corporation. I wanted to challenge myself in a less traditional role and get outside of my comfort zone in a fast-paced and results-driven environment where I am actively leading people, problem solving, and constantly learning.

My responsibilities in this role included functioning as an Operations Manager with mentor support, leading shifts in the distribution center, and keeping the safety of team members first in mind while driving productivity in total operations. I have grown in my ability to see both the minute-by-minute details along with the big-picture building metrics and how our center contributes to the entire Target supply chain. My favorite moment so far has been leading a presentation on adaptive leadership, communication styles, and implicit bias during one of our executive staff meetings. I had the opportunity to facilitate a great discussion that allowed our building leadership to think deeply about the ways we communicate in specific operations-focused scenarios.

If you are looking for an internship, don’t shy away from an opportunity even if it might be outside of your comfort zone. Trust in your skills and abilities and have the confidence to put yourself out there as you network, reach out to recruiters, and apply for positions. Don’t limit yourself even if you have one specific company or type of intern position in mind, because there are so many great ones out there!

My internship with Target has helped me develop my love for leading and supporting others and my passion for driving meaningful results while working in a fast paced environment where I can contribute to a bigger cause. I have a greater understanding of the type of company I hope to work for after graduation and more perspective on the endless opportunities that are out there. I am eager to finish out my last year at UP, gain more knowledge and skills through my classes, and start applying them in the real world of business.