Intern Impact: How Internships and Mentorship Shaped Lauren and Matthew’s Journeys

From Lauren's family-rooted introduction to hands-on projects and mentorship to Matthew's evolution from intern to VP of Category Management, see how internships fuel growth, innovation and lasting careers.

Lauren's journey is uniquely rooted in family since her father has built his own career at Stanley Black & Decker. Growing up, Lauren saw firsthand the pride and purpose that came with being part of our team. "My dad never pressured me, but I always admired how much he loved his work and the people he worked with," Lauren shares. When the opportunity arose, she was eager to experience the company's culture for herself.

"I'm not just observing - I'm contributing, learning from my team, and seeing the impact of my work."

Lauren's internship in licensing and e-commerce has been more than just a summer job; it's been a launchpad for real-world learning and growth. She has worked on impactful projects, from supporting Prime Day initiatives to analyzing sales data for CRAFTSMAN® products. Lauren remarks, "I was surprised by how much trust and responsibility I was given right away." The welcoming environment and mentorship she's received have helped her build confidence and develop a solid foundation of skills for years to come.

Matthew's story began in a similar way: as an intern, unsure of his exact path but eager to learn. "I started out thinking I would go into advertising, but my internship opened my eyes to the world of product management," Matt recalls, "seeing a product I helped launch on a store shelf was a defining moment. It showed me the power of teamwork and the real impact we can have." Over the years, Matt has grown with the Company, taking on roles across brands and functions, and now leading the CRAFTSMAN Category Management team.

Matt's journey is marked by a focus on the end-user and a passion for solving real problems. "You have to put yourself in the shoes of the customer. What does the end-user need? What is going to make their life easier or better?" he explains. This mindset has guided him through every project, from launching new products to building out entirely new business functions. "I love that every day is different. You come in with a plan, but you have to be ready to pivot, collaborate and solve problems as they come up."