Not every successful internship at Columbia Forest Products results in a full-time position, but some internships do grow into bigger opportunities. That was the case for Michael Lewis, who interned with Columbia for two consecutive years before being hired as a Team Lead Trainee in May 2026. Growing up, Michael often heard stories about Columbia being a great place to work and a company that genuinely cared about its employees. When he began searching for internship opportunities during college, Columbia’s management internship stood out. After experiencing the company firsthand, one internship turned into a second, and eventually Michael realized he could see himself building his future at CFP.

During his internships, Michael gained a deep understanding of the manufacturing process and how decorative hardwood plywood is produced. He spent time learning not only the technical aspects of the operation, but also how different departments and team members work together to support the mill’s success. The experience gave him valuable insight into the complexity of manufacturing while helping him develop a stronger appreciation for the people behind the process.

By working closely with employees throughout the mill, he strengthened his communication skills and built connections across the organization. He also learned one of the most important lessons of his professional journey so far: sometimes the best way to grow is to jump in, tackle difficult situations, and learn through experience.

Now, as a Team Lead Trainee in Old Fort, Michael is focused on continuing his growth. His goal is to successfully complete the trainee program while learning as much as possible about Columbia’s processes and operations. Looking ahead, he hopes to contribute meaningfully to the company’s success and build a long, rewarding career with CFP. Michael’s story is a great example of how an internship can become more than a temporary experience. Under the right circumstances, it can be the first step in a worthwhile career.