Our internship is a flexible, hands-on role that puts students in the field with our engineering experts and in the midst of helping us create and test solutions to our customers’ needs. This summer, we are excited to have Emma Fortuna and Braden Noll on board as part of our summer internship program.
Emma Fortuna
Why did you choose to intern at Noraxon?
I chose to intern at Noraxon because I was already familiar with and intrigued by several of their products through the research lab I work in at Clemson University. Their focus on wearable technology, biomechanics, and human movement aligns closely with my own research interests and career goals, making Noraxon an exciting place to gain hands-on experience in an industry setting.
What are you currently studying and what drew you to the field?
I’m currently studying Biomedical Engineering at Clemson University with a concentration in Electrical Engineering. My athletic background first sparked my interest in the field, as I became fascinated by how the human body moves and functions. When I discovered Biomedical Engineering and learned about the technology used alongside the human body to better understand and improve performance and quality of life, it became clear this field was the perfect fit for me.
What do you like to do outside of school and work?
Outside of school and work, I compete for Clemson University’s Division I track and field team as a heptathlete. The sport has challenged me in countless ways while also giving me the opportunity to travel, experience new places, and build lifelong friendships. Outside of athletics, I enjoy trying new things and seeking out new experiences, whether that involves traveling, exploring a new area, finding a new restaurant, or simply taking advantage of opportunities to do something different outside of my tight-knit routine.
What are your career goals after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to build a career in biomechanics, focusing on injury prevention and sports performance. I am especially interested in using technology and data to better understand human movement and translate that knowledge into real-world applications. Whether through graduate school or industry, I hope to continue to contribute to research and tools that help people move better, perform better, and stay healthy.
If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be?
If I could instantly master any skill, it would be welding. I’ve always thought it was a really cool hands-on skill, and it’s something I’ve wanted to learn for a long time. I’ve always liked the idea of being able to build or fix things on my own and welding has always seemed like one of the coolest ways to do it.
Returning from 2025!
Braden Noll
What was your biggest takeaway from your internship at Noraxon last year?
My biggest takeaway from my internship at Noraxon last year was the importance of problem diagnosis. There are so many details and factors that contribute to the successful use of biomechanics technology, and it is essential to fully understand any obstacle that arises. Taking the time to identify and lay out the reasons behind a problem helps you diagnose the proper solution.
What made you want to return to Noraxon for another internship?
I wanted to return for the opportunity to work alongside the global standard in biomechanics technology. The products offered by the company are fascinating to me, and they represent the type of technology I dream of working with in my future career. Having another chance to build my understanding of the applications within this field was an opportunity I did not want to miss.
How do you hope this year’s experience will differ from last year?
I honestly hope my experience does not differ too much from last year. I was drawn back to Noraxon because of what I experienced during my previous term. The internship allowed me to develop long lasting skills that I can apply to any career path I choose. The support I received from the team last summer was incredible, and I know there will be no difference in my experience with the company this time around.
What have you been working on since last summer?
Since last summer, I have continued working at Dr. Lockhart’s Locomotion Lab at Arizona State University. I have had the opportunity to assist with various elderly slip-and-fall prevention studies that identify the coefficient of friction values associated with harmful bathtub slip-and-fall accidents. I have also assisted with a government-funded exoskeleton study that aims to determine the effectiveness of this assistive technology for military personnel. Before beginning my Noraxon internship again, I completed my senior capstone project, where my team and I developed a solution to growth modulation surgery compliance issues associated with pediatric patients.
If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be?
If I could master any skill, it would be how to backflip; because every cool accomplishment deserves a sick backflip.
