What are you most excited to learn about during your internship?

I’m excited to learn more about the behind-the-scenes processes that help keep air travel running safely and efficiently.

This summer, SAIM is excited to welcome Kolbe McLenon as our Client Success Intern. With a strong interest in aviation, technology, and working with people, Kolbe is getting hands-on experience with the behind-the-scenes systems, teams, and processes that help keep aviation fuel infrastructure and air travel operating safely and efficiently.

Tell us a little about yourself, including what you’re studying and where you’re attending school. 

I’m currently studying aerospace engineering at Wichita State University and plan to graduate in spring 2028. I’ve always been interested in aviation and enjoy learning how engineering and technology come together to solve real-world challenges. 

What attracted you to the opportunity to intern with SAIM? 

I come from a family of salespeople — both my father and grandfather worked in sales — which first sparked my interest in the internship opportunity. I’ve also had a longtime interest in the aviation industry. When Evan Tinker introduced me to the Client Success internship at SAIM, I was immediately excited because it combined my interests in aviation, technology, and working with people. 

Is there a particular feature or innovation from SAIM that has stood out to you so far? 

One innovation that has especially stood out to me is the SAIM Digital Platform’s ability to remotely monitor fuel infrastructure, tank levels, and facility data in real time. Seeing how technology can improve visibility and operational efficiency has been really impressive. 

What do you enjoy most about working in a technology-focused environment? 

I enjoy being exposed to new innovations and seeing how technology is applied in real operational environments. Many of my classes focus heavily on the math and science behind engineering concepts, so it’s been interesting to also see the practical applications and impact these technologies can have. 

If you could describe your internship experience thus far in three words, what would they be? 

Riveting, Electric, Fulfilling. 

Outside of work and school, what are some hobbies or interests you enjoy? 

Outside of work and school, I play club volleyball at Wichita State University, primarily indoor volleyball with some beach volleyball as well. I play both outside hitter and right-side hitter. 

What is one fun or interesting fact about yourself? 

 I’ll usually choose the off-brand version over the name brand when it comes to snacks — especially white cheddar Cheez-Its. 

Tell us about your career leading up to your position with SAIM.

I’ve been in the aviation fuels industry for 20 years. I started on the reseller side before moving to the airline (buyer) side. Most recently, I worked for a software company as a SaaS provider that helps airlines with fuel management, direct operating costs, and other SaaS solutions.

What’s your favorite part about working in this industry?

The aviation industry has a global reach, but it is still small and close-knit. One of my favorite parts is getting to know all those people who help operate the world’s jet fuel supply.

Looking back at your career so far, what accomplishment are you most proud of?

I think SAIM is the culmination of my entire career. After working on both sides (seller and buyer) of commercial aviation as well as the general aviation space, I know the pain points and challenges our users face. All those experiences have brought me to this point.

What element of the SAIM digital platform has you most excited?

I’m excited about what the platform does for the industry in general – not only removing the pen and paper nature, but providing visibility into the condition and lifecycle of fuel infrastructure assets. The industry is getting to the stage where we’re not shying away from technology. SAIM helps with the manual process gap people are experiencing, making facilities more efficient.

In what ways have you seen SAIM serve the airlines in how they manage their critical fueling systems?

I saw SAIM at the beginning when the focus was on as-builts and scans. I’ve enjoyed seeing how it’s expanded to include maintenance capabilities, helping both the operators and airlines in managing their fueling systems more efficiently.

What are you most looking forward to with SAIM in 2026?

I’m looking forward to making connections with SAIM users this year and understanding how we can help support their operations, both today and into the future.

What drew you to wanting to begin your position with SAIM?

After working with Argus Consulting on projects in past positions, I knew the quality of work and the reputation the team has in the aviation fueling industry. The opportunity of getting to work with them, continuing to build on what’s already been established, and helping drive continued growth was really exciting to me.

Where can you be found when you’re not at work?

I’ll either be walking my dog with my wife, golfing, or watching sports.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I earned my Commercial Pilot certificate before I had ever flown on a commercial flight as a passenger.