At 21, Robert Townsend is simultaneously studying computer science at Georgia Perimeter College and working as a valued intern at one of the state’s largest minority-owned businesses.

Townsend began working at PS Energy—a Dunwoody firm that provides fuel and fleet asset management for companies like AT&T, Georgia Power and Lockheed Martin—after learning about the opportunity from his GPC Educational Achievement Program advisor. GEAP is a retention program for Hispanic and Latino students like Townsend who receive advising, counseling and academic support to help them succeed at the college.

He says it’s exciting being able to apply what he’s learning in the classroom to real-life work situations.

“A lot of this is heavy math and trigonometry…and, also my computer programming classes, they really come in handy,” Townsend says. “GPC has really prepared me academically, and what I’ve learned at PS Energy are the industry practices and how to leverage that knowledge into building whole systems.”

Sam Jew, PS Energy senior systems analyst, serves as one of Townsend’s supervisors. He says the Georgia Perimeter student is handling work responsibilities extremely well.

“Robert is currently working on a variety of technical projects for us including research and development of new GPS tracking and wireless tank monitoring systems,” Jew says. “Recently he has made a few breakthroughs in these areas that have really helped us move the projects forward.”

Even with his important work schedule, Townsend also is committed to his studies. He’s attending summer school at GPC, with plans to graduate this fall, then transfer to Georgia Tech or Southern Polytechnic.

Vilma Sampson, GEAP interim director, is not surprised by Townsend’s success on the job or in the classroom. “He is not only intelligent and hard-working, but caring and easy-going,” she says. “I have no doubt that Mr. Townsend will continue to excel in the classroom and the community.”

What’s more, Georgia Perimeter College appears to be a tradition for the Townsend family. Already, two of Townsend’s four siblings have graduated from GPC, with another—an older brother—attending now, as well. His younger sister is considering enrolling once she graduates from high school next year. “With so much family history already here, that’s probably the path she’s going to take,” Townsend says.

What’s less certain is how long PS Energy will retain Townsend as an intern. But, Jew says, if it were up to him: “I’d be happy to have him work here for the next two years.”