Not every internship leads to an opportunity to program a light show for one of Wisconsin’s most iconic landmarks, but some interns at We Energies got the chance to do just that with the sixth annual Light the Hoan Intern Challenge presented by the We Energies Foundation.

The contest featured interns from We Energies and 13 other Milwaukee companies, offering them a chance to build their professional networks, learn about creative technology, and present their light shows to Milwaukee and the world.

The interns were tasked with designing a light show that represents We Energies. They began the process by gaining an understanding of the lighting mechanisms and software used to illuminate the Hoan Bridge. They learned to convey messages and emotions through light and motion. They then practiced pitching and selling their ideas and gained valuable experience working in teams.

Twenty-five We Energies interns formed teams and shared their designs.

The team consisting of Connor Guyette and Nathaniel Kitzing from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Kristian Blagoev from Marquette University, Nathan Theriault from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Nicholas Kroog from Butler University was chosen to represent We Energies.

Their design:

  • Incorporated colors and transitions to represent We Energies’ commitment to reliability, community, history and the future.
  • Highlighted how We Energies powers local industry and iconic events, such as Summerfest, Brewers baseball and Bucks basketball, and how the company’s lighting serves as a community beacon.
  • Featured the company’s commitment to customers during storm restoration when crews work around the clock to safely restore power.

The interns competed in a celebrity judging contest and mixer to network and celebrate their accomplishments. A people’s choice online vote also took place in July. We Energies presented well, but fell short of reaching the top three in both categories.

The We Energies Foundation has been a proud presenting sponsor of this event, supporting Light the Hoan and the Intern Challenge with grants since the collective’s inception in 2018.