2024 Steel Intern Scholarships
Rosa E. Ayala Perez
Before starting my internship at Nucor-JFE Steel Mexico, I outlined objectives I hoped to achieve in terms of professional development as well as technical and practical knowledge I hoped to gain. My main objectives were to: gain practical experience, develop technical skills, understand project management, contribute to innovation, expand professional network and develop personal competencies.
During my internship at Nucor-JFE Steel Mexico, my daily activities and assigned tasks were closely related to plant operations and technical research. My routine involved being present on the plant floor to manage the cutting of samples with different coating weights (CW). I would then transport these samples to the laboratory to conduct a series of tests, including precise cutting, weighing and analysis using various techniques. These activities required meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of the technical procedures involved.
I had two main projects I worked on during my time with Nucor-JFE Mexico. In the first project, my primary responsibility was to research and validate the implementation of the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technique as an alternative method for measuring coating weight on galvanized steel sheets. The goal was to ensure that XRF provided consistent and accurate results comparable to traditional methods. My role involved collecting data, comparing results between methods and preparing reports documenting the feasibility of XRF as a standard method within the plant. This project was crucial for improving efficiency and precision in the final product's quality control.
The second project’s objective was to create a visual table to educate operators and staff about the types of dross, its causes and prevention methods. This was intended to ensure that when any type of dross defect occurred, they would know how to act to eliminate it. This project was carried out in collaboration with one of my fellow Steel Interns who were also interning at the same plant. Together, we designed a table that clearly displays the different types of dross that form in the zinc bath, identifies their causes, and provides guidelines for prevention. This visual tool facilitated the understanding of defects and helped in improving the overall quality control process.
Throughout my involvement in these projects and daily activities, I acquired and strengthened a range of key skills and knowledge such as technical knowledge in measurement techniques, handling laboratory equipment and teamwork.
This experience has had a significant impact on my future career plans. It has provided me with a deeper understanding of industrial processes and project management in the steel industry, better preparing me to take on technical and managerial roles in the future. The opportunity to work on innovative projects and collaborate with experienced professionals has reinforced my interest in steel engineering and inspired me to continue developing my skills in this field. The experience has also expanded my professional network, which will be invaluable for my career.
The experience I had during my summer industrial internship at Nucor-JFE Steel Mexico has been profoundly enriching and formative. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Nucor-JFE Steel Mexico for providing me with the opportunity, which allowed me to apply and expand my knowledge in the field of steel engineering, and to the Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST). The experience has been truly enriching, filled with learning and challenges that have allowed me to grow both professionally and personally.
I am grateful to AIST for believing in me and awarding me the scholarship that made this experience possible. I hope they continue to fulfill the dreams of more students like me, giving them the opportunity to have equally unique and formative experiences.