Each summer, Didion welcomes a group of bright, driven interns who bring fresh perspectives and energy to our teams. This year’s cohort came from universities across the Midwest, contributing to departments ranging from bioscience and engineering to accounting and supply chain. Their work has had a lasting impact—and we’re proud to share their stories. 

2025 Didion interns

Sam Woolever – Accounting Intern 

University of Wisconsin – Madison
Sam

Sam has already made a big impact by laying the groundwork for future financial reporting for the Didion Foundation. Learning about the milling process that supports local farming communities has been a highlight of his internship. 

“Getting the opportunity to learn more about the milling industry, which is a staple to much of Wisconsin initially brought me in. Then, meeting some of the amazing people who work here sealed the deal.”

From bonding with co-workers at the waterpark in the Wisconsin Dells to contributing across multiple sectors at the company, Sam’s summer has been full of learning and great memories.    

Rebecca Sierzenga – Purchasing and Supply Chain Intern 

Wayne State University

Rebecca has explored ways to enhance supplier collaboration and streamline procurement processes. She’s also been soaking up real-world experience and building strong vendor relationships. 

“Outside of work, living with the other interns has given us the chance to build strong friendships and enjoy fun activities together like exploring the area, kayaking, playing volleyball, and more!” 

Tyler Bellmore – Engineering/IT Co-Op 

University of Minnesota – Duluth

Tyler’s work on process standardization is helping reduce variability and improve troubleshooting across operations. With two summers at Didion under his belt, Tyler’s appreciation for the full corn lifecycle—from farm to fermentation—shines through. 

“A special thank you to all of the engineering, maintenance, and operations teams for assisting me in my projects over the past two summers. I’ve had a lot of fun and learned a lot at Didion!” 

Justin Errthum – Mechanical Engineering Intern 

University of Wisconsin – Platteville

Justin has been leading efforts that enhance reliability, reduce waste, and boost operational efficiency. 

“My favorite moment at work happened when I wasn’t even here! I was on vacation and got a shoutout for doing a great job on a project.”

Whether it’s getting that shoutout or kayaking with fellow interns, Justin’s summer has been packed with impact and fun. 

Kathryn Porter – Bioscience Lab Intern 

University of Minnesota

Kathryn is passionate about sustainability and is helping the company explore new research directions in ethanol production. 

“I’m very interested in how we can make our daily lives more sustainable as a society and lessen our dependence on fossil fuels. I think the way that Didion Bioscience turns what would otherwise be waste from the mill into fuel is a great example of that.”

Kathryn’s favorite moment? A wave pool adventure in the Wisconsin Dells with fellow interns! 

Hadi Nassar – Reliability Engineering Intern 

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

Hadi has been instrumental in identifying equipment efficiencies that support long-term reliability and energy savings. 

“I am proud of what I am accomplishing here, and even more grateful for everything I am learning. I will take all the memories I made this summer with me forever, and it is all thanks to Didion!”  

Nikitha Udipi – Bioscience Lab Intern 

University of Minnesota

Nikitha is passionate about biofuels and researching how to enhance product quality. 

“Working at Didion taught me a lot, not just technical skills in my field, but also in how the industry operates and what to expect for a job post school. I value these lessons and will carry them with me.”

From touring the mill (inside and out) to exploring local towns with fellow interns, Nikitha’s summer has been full of discovery.

We’re incredibly proud of our 2025 intern cohorts. Their hard work, enthusiasm, and fresh ideas have helped shape a better future for Didion—and we can’t wait to see where their journeys take them next. 

Check out some of the photos the team capture during their time on and off the Didion campus!