AIST Steel Intern Scholarship
Samantha J. Saunders
This summer, I had the opportunity to work as a plant engineer intern at Nucor Steel West Virginia in Point Pleasant, W.Va., USA. As a greenfield project, at Nucor Steel West Virginia (NSWV) is the largest single investment in Nucor history, as well as, in West Virginia history. Being a part of the team for such a large construction project during the startup phase is an experience that most engineers can only dream of.
As a part of the team at NSWV, I was presented with a wide array of engineering projects and challenges throughout my summer. In addition to typical engineering duties, I got to work with our teams in safety, environmental, material handling, finance, and even human resources. This interdisciplinary approach exposed me to the interconnectedness of our project, such that each team member, including myself, supports one another to accomplish a common goal.
One project that I enjoyed leading this summer was conversations with other Nucor divisions about the attributes of their engineering document management system (EDMS). I got to investigate what processes work for them, as well as learn what they would change about their current system if they were able. From this, I was able to formulate a list of attributes our team should look for in a drawing management system and what to avoid. This project has helped establish a set of guidelines our team can look to regarding the selection of an EDMS. Some of my other projects include, but are not limited to, redesigning our laydown yard configuration and allocation system, performing various original equipment manufacturer designs reviews, establishing quality assurance/control programs, and participating in community involvement events. In all these projects, I gained a deeper understanding of what makes our business at Nucor successful. Not only does Nucor operate a business, but they do it safely and with the best interest of their team, community, and partners in mind.
Undoubtedly, the most valuable takeaway from my internship this summer is the relationships I have made with the team at NSWV. Working alongside some of the most experienced individuals in the industry has surrounded me with a wealth of knowledge to help me grow professionally. In addition, I was able to participate in events such as the Nucor senior intern summit, the AIST Crane Symposium, and a mill tour of Nucor Steel–Arkansas to help broaden my network within the steel industry.
My experiences working at Nucor Steel West Virginia this summer have enhanced my passion in the steel industry and solidified my plans for the future. After graduation in December, I will join the Nucor Steel West Virginia Team where I will be working as a plant engineer on the hot side. I would like to extend gratitude to both NSWV and AIST for providing me with the resources and the opportunity to help me grow, develop, and succeed in the steel industry.