What’s it like to work for an innovative, employee-focused, dynamic supply chain software company?
For interns at Kinaxis, every day brings new challenges and opportunities for personal and professional growth. In this blog post, we’ve gathered the experiences and insights from four of our interns about their experiences at our Chennai office.
From gaining valuable working experiences, learning new skills, participating in sports and games like cricket and foosball, to building a strong community, read on to find out what some of our Co-Op/Intern students based in the Chennai office have to say!
Dillirani Ramesh
Dillirani completed her 5-month internship and has now joined us as a full-time Associate Consultant in Professional Services.
How would you describe the culture at Kinaxis? During my internship at Kinaxis, I experienced a culture that values openness and transparency. I was encouraged to share my ideas and contribute to the company's success. Continuous learning and development were given priority, with various growth opportunities provided. The emphasis on work-life balance and employee well-being created a supportive and inclusive environment. The leadership was approachable, valuing employee input and actively listening to ideas and concerns.
What have you learned in your time at Kinaxis? My internship provided me with the opportunity to expand my knowledge in several key areas. I acquired valuable knowledge about the essential elements that drive efficient supply chain operations. In addition to supply chain management, Kinaxis provided me with an immersive learning experience in JavaScript development.
I had the privilege of participating in the RapidResponse® foundational training program, which spanned over eight weeks. Each week of the training was dedicated to a specific topic, covering various aspects of the RapidResponse platform. The structured nature of the training, with dedicated exercises for each topic, provided a well-rounded learning experience. It enabled me to bridge the gap between theory and practical application, ensuring that I could confidently utilize the RapidResponse platform in a professional setting.
Overall, my time at Kinaxis broadened my understanding of supply chain management, enhanced my proficiency in JavaScript development and provided me with practical experience using the Rapid Response platform. These diverse learning opportunities have equipped me with a strong foundation to tackle complex supply chain challenges and contribute to the ongoing success of the industry.
What are some of the highlights of your experience at Kinaxis? One of the notable highlights of my experience at Kinaxis was the opportunity to have a meeting with CEO John Sicard. It was inspiring to engage directly with the company's top leadership and gain insights into their vision and mission. Kinaxis also stands out for its commitment to employee development and growth. The presence of friendly and knowledgeable seniors and trainers created a supportive learning environment. Their guidance and expertise were invaluable in navigating challenges and acquiring new skills, furthering my professional development. Additionally, Kinaxis recognizes the importance of employee well-being. The provision of great food reflects the company's dedication to creating a comfortable and enjoyable work environment. Such amenities contribute to a positive work-life balance and enhance employee satisfaction.
What advice would you give to an incoming Co-Op/Intern? My advice would be to fully embrace the exceptional environment and approachable trainers. Make the most of the hands-on experience with the RapidResponse tool and engaging exercises provided. Take initiative, seek guidance, and actively contribute to your work. Build connections with your colleagues, prioritize continuous learning, and, most importantly, enjoy the enriching experience. Your time at Kinaxis will equip you with valuable skills and pave the way for a successful future in supply chain management.
Dinesh Kumar Govinda Raj
Dinesh completed his 5-month internship and has now joined us as a full-time Associate Consultant in Professional Services.
How would you describe the culture at Kinaxis? At Kinaxis, the culture is truly remarkable. As a fresher taking my first career step, I couldn't have asked for a better place to begin my professional journey. Kinaxis provides an exceptional environment that fosters friendliness and camaraderie, making it easy for newcomers like me to adapt and thrive. The company's values, such as "Laugh Often," "Stronger Together," "Be Real," and "Be Empowered," are not just words on a wall but are actively demonstrated in every aspect of the organization. It is this culture that sets Kinaxis apart and creates a positive and inspiring atmosphere for growth and learning.
What have you learned in your time at Kinaxis? During my time at Kinaxis, I had the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of RapidResponse and gained valuable insights into its applications. The company provided me with a strong foundation in supply chain management (SCM) basics and offered technical training in areas such as JavaScript and machine learning. These training sessions deepened my understanding of the concepts I had previously learned during my academic journey.
What are some of the highlights of your experience at Kinaxis? At Kinaxis, we benefit from an exceptional work-life balance that enables us to maintain a harmonious blend of our professional and personal lives. Moreover, Kinaxis recognizes the significance of incorporating enjoyment into our work environment and actively promotes it through engaging activities and sports. The company provides comprehensive support and valuable resources, empowering employees to excel in their roles and achieve their career goals. The people at Kinaxis are renowned for their unwavering support, fostering a profound sense of camaraderie throughout the organization. Additionally, effective communication skills are highly valued at Kinaxis, facilitating clear and productive exchanges of ideas, feedback, and information among colleagues.
What advice would you give to an incoming Co-Op/Intern? My advice would be to prioritize completing projects within the given timeframes. As someone who recently started their career, I highly recommend being punctual and adhering to the schedule provided to them. Stay engaged and actively participate in all work and recreational activities offered to them. Embrace an open-minded attitude towards learning and personal growth and maintain a strong sense of corporate discipline throughout your internship. These guidelines will ensure a successful and rewarding experience during your time as an intern.
Ilakkiya Kumar
Ilakkiya completed her 5-month internship and has now joined us as a full-time Associate Consultant in Professional Services.
How would you describe the culture at Kinaxis? Kinaxis has a culture that truly values its employees and emphasizes the importance of individuals. One impressive aspect is the lack of hierarchy, which creates an environment where everyone feels welcome to express their opinions and discuss any concerns with anyone in the company. Additionally, Kinaxis offers work flexibility, allowing me to easily balance my internship responsibilities with my studies. This flexibility enabled me to effectively handle my workload and successfully meet both my academic and internship commitments. In summary, the culture at Kinaxis is exceptional, and I am grateful for the chance to experience such a positive work environment during my internship.
What have you learned in your time at Kinaxis? During my internship at Kinaxis, as an information technology student, I had the unique opportunity to explore the world of supply chain management, a completely new domain for me. One of the most impactful aspects of my internship was working with the RapidResponse tool, which exposed me to powerful technology for optimizing complex supply chain operations. This hands-on experience not only expanded my technical skills but also sparked a genuine interest in the supply chain field. Overall, my time at Kinaxis provided me with invaluable learning experiences, both in terms of technical knowledge and essential soft skills, which will undoubtedly benefit my future career.
What are some of the highlights of your experience at Kinaxis? I had several standout experiences that truly made my internship memorable. Firstly, the introduction to the company's core values on my first day left a lasting impression on me. The values of "laugh often, be real, stronger together" resonated deeply and showcased the importance of a positive and collaborative culture. It made me contemplate if other companies also prioritize such values in their organizational culture.
Additionally, the opportunity to interact with the President and CEO, John Sicard, within just a month of joining was unexpected and remarkable. The fact that the CEO took the time to engage with interns and patiently address our questions emphasized the value Kinaxis places on every employee, regardless of their position. It made me feel genuinely appreciated and valued as an intern.
Furthermore, one of the most rewarding aspects of my internship was the chance to meet and connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and departments within the organization. Engaging with fellow interns as well as experienced professionals provided me with a broader understanding of different roles and perspectives. It not only expanded my professional network but also offered valuable insights that enriched my overall experience at Kinaxis.
What advice would you give to an incoming Co-Op/Intern? I would highly recommend approaching your time at Kinaxis with a genuine learning mindset. Embrace the opportunity to broaden your horizons and expand your knowledge and skills. Don't hesitate to ask questions or share your opinions, as your unique perspective is valued and can contribute to the growth of the team. Seize every opportunity that comes your way and proactively explore new avenues for learning and professional development. Remember to focus on continuous learning, as the internship is a valuable steppingstone in your career journey.
Lastly, make sure to enjoy your time at Kinaxis, as it is a supportive and engaging environment that offers immense potential for personal and professional growth.
Gopinath Karthikeyan
Gopinath completed his 5-month internship and he has now joined us as a full-time Associate Consultant in Professional Services.
How would you describe the culture at Kinaxis? The culture here at Kinaxis is so vibrant. It is mainly characterized by the company’s core value of “People matter here.” The work culture is so warm and welcoming. The people here are so happening that they never let you feel the typical day like a “typical day.” The communication channels are always open and frank and people are committed to making you feel comfortable. I have always admired how the seniors balance work life and fun time at Kinaxis.
What have you learned in your time at Kinaxis? My time at Kinaxis as an intern was my first work experience ever. I got to learn the scope and real time applications of supply chain management in a company. I also got to learn more about RapidResponse. I also managed to get two RapidResponse certifications. I had Java classes for the scripting functioning in the software and even did a project which involved demand forecasting using machine language.
What are some of the highlights of your experience at Kinaxis? Through my brief journey at Kinaxis as an intern, I got to engage in various events conducted by the company. I attended a Mini Kinect-ed event, which was conducted at ITC Chola, Chennai. I participated in a foosball tournament held at the Chennai office and even managed to win a round. During my intern period there were two fun Friday events and I was surprised to see the spontaneity of all the seniors. The best part of my intern days were my fellow interns. We all got together so well. We went on a lot of outings and bonded together.
What advice would you give to an incoming Co-Op/Intern? As an intern, take more initiative and show more enthusiasm towards your work. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you are unsure about anything. Feel free to give genuine feedback and expect the same in return. Take time to build your network and develop connections. Take advantage of the training programs and get a deep knowledge of the product. Develop a warm attitude towards everyone. Enjoy your internship.
In wrapping up these captivating experiences from our interns, one resounding truth emerges: learning by doing is the perfect partnership between school and the “real world.” To read more first-hand testimonials of the Kinaxis experience in Chennai, click here.
If these personal insights sound like the kind of professional experience you’re looking for, be sure to check out our current Co-Op/Intern opportunities page. Check back often, as more roles will be posted soon!
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