Tyron - Austin Intern
Summer 2001

Meet Tyron - Extreme Blue Class of 2001

In the summer of 2001, Tyron participated in the Extreme Blue™ internship. He's now working full time as an architect with IBM SWG Industry Solutions. He took a moment to share his experience about the Extreme Blue program and how he was able to blend his business and technical interests to develop a new solution for IBM.

Tyron, how was the Extreme Blue experience for you?

My Extreme Blue experience was the best internship I've had. I was able to uniquely blend my business and technical interests in developing a new solution for IBM. Most importantly, I learned a lot from my peers who were extremely talented and motivated.

What were your expectations? Did the experience deliver on those?

While the program promised a start-up environment, I expected it to still be largely process oriented. I was surprised to find small, entrepreneurial teams that had the ability to invent and create their own directions. Extreme Blue delivered on its promise and exceeded my expectations for the program.

What was the most valuable lesson you learned? What skills have you developed?

The experience has taught me how to lead inside IBM. Extreme Blue helped me feel comfortable navigating the company to find the resources I need. This also strengthened my communication skills and has enabled me to be a more effective leader. More importantly, it has given me a network and support system that allows me to effectively do my job on a daily basis.

Was the exposure to business and technical mentors/leaders a valuable networking tool for you?

I felt our mentors were very interested in giving us the flexibility to choose our own direction. Having access to the business leaders was valuable in determine which direction to take.

How does the Extreme Blue internship compare to other internship programs you've heard of or been involved with?

Extreme Blue is unique in focusing on the entrepreneurial process. With small, elite team and access to IBM resources, a lot can be accomplished. The Extreme Blue program pushes that envelope every year to help the company see the potential. No other program gives interns that power and responsibility.

Were you impressed with your Extreme Blue peers?

I was very impressed with my peers. In fact, I feel the people are the most critical resource for the program. They are an invaluable sounding board and catalysts for change. I have always been able to rely on my peers to help out with a variety of issues.

Do you keep in contact with other Extreme Blue Alumni also working at IBM?

I formed Emerging Technology and Business Innovation (ETBI) group specifically to keep the Extreme Blue entrepreneurial spirit alive outside the program. As I transitioned into a full-time employee, I realized getting ideas commercialized was a much harder process. By forming ETBI, employees could continue their dreams through education, networking, and invention. A strong basis for the group comes from Extreme Blue alumni.