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Three summers, one solid foundation

July 31, 2025
Three summers, one solid foundation Intern Eric Lutz tests slurry backfill for a potash mine slurry wall construction.

Sometimes, all it takes is one conversation to shift your career goals. For intern Eric Lutz, that moment came when he discovered a friend’s dad was both an engineer and project manager on a major stadium project in Regina, the capital city of Saskatchewan. The scale and impact of the work sparked his interest in civil engineering and led him to the University of Saskatchewan. But it wasn’t until he started taking geotechnical courses that something really clicked.

Now, as he heads into his senior year, Eric is back for his third summer as an intern at Barr’s Saskatoon office. We caught up with Eric to hear more about his time at Barr and the hands-on experience he’s gaining in geotechnical engineering.

What has been your favorite part about working at Barr?

“What I’ve enjoyed most is the opportunity to work on site and take on a wide range of responsibilities that go beyond what is typically expected of an intern.”

What I’ve enjoyed most about working at Barr is the opportunity to work on site and take on a wide range of responsibilities that go beyond what is typically expected of an intern.

Barr gives its employees the freedom to explore different roles and projects, which has allowed me to get involved in meaningful, hands-on work. I have had the chance to contribute to real project outcomes through QA/QC work, drilling, and instrumentation installation. This level of trust and responsibility has helped me grow both technically and professionally, and I have learned far more than I did in previous internship roles elsewhere.

What types of projects have you been involved with at Barr?

I’ve primarily been working on potash mine projects around Saskatchewan. In the office, for example, I’ve worked on labor, equipment, and materials reports; daily reports; CAD drawings; and soil logging. I’ve also worked on a wide range of projects in the field, including QA/QC work for mine tailings expansions, drilling work at a wind farm, water sampling, and instrument installation.

What was the most valuable piece of advice you received on the job?

“Don’t be afraid to try new things, and say yes to as many opportunities as you can. Saying yes has opened the door to so many valuable and unexpected experiences.”

Early on at Barr, I was given a great piece of advice: Don’t be afraid to try new things, and say yes to as many opportunities as you can. I really took that to heart. I have tried to stay open to new experiences because I want to grow and learn as much as possible. Saying yes has opened the door to so many valuable and unexpected experiences.

Some of the most enjoyable and rewarding work I have done has come from last-minute requests to help with projects. Being willing to jump in and lend a hand has not only made my work more interesting but has also helped me build strong connections and gain experience I would not have otherwise.

What have you enjoyed most about having hands-on experience in the field?

I enjoy seeing how my education and the work I do in the office directly translate into real outcomes in the field. I have always liked building things, so it is rewarding to be part of that process. I also appreciate how remote on-site work often requires creative problem solving, especially when navigating unexpected challenges.

As a returning intern, why did you decide to return to Barr for a second and third summer?

As with any job, the people are important, and the people I have had the privilege of working alongside at Barr have all been amazing. I enjoy the projects I have been able to work on, and I see Barr as a company I could grow, learn, and have a career with after I am finished with school.

What do you like to do with your free time?

During the summer, I like to golf. I go early in the morning before work a couple of times a week. I also enjoy hiking and being outside, although I have a special hatred toward mosquitoes. In the fall and winter, when I am not busy with school, I enjoy playing recreational hockey to stay active and have some fun with my friends.

Interested in becoming an intern at Barr? Learn more.

About the author

Evie Zick is a communications and multimedia student at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and expects to graduate in December 2025. Evie began her career at Barr as a corporate communications intern last summer and recently took on the role of communications associate. Her passions include writing, visual arts and design, environmental conservation, and solution-based storytelling.

Image gallery (below)

  1. Fully geared up, Eric prepares for fieldwork in the great outdoors.

  2. After a long day of inspecting culverts and roadways, the sunset offers Eric a moment of reflection.

  3. Eric and his girlfriend pose in front of picture-perfect Lake Louise in Alberta.

  4. Always up for trying something new, Eric learns to wakesurf on Waskesiu Lake in Saskatchewan.

  5. Taking in the snowy mountain views, Eric and his girlfriend explore scenic Banff, Alberta.

  6. Eric enjoys a peaceful round of golf at sunset.

Image gallery

Tags:

Barr Culture Career civil engineering Geotechnical Engineering Internship

 

Evie Zick headshot
Evie Zick
Communications Associate
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