AIST Foundation Steel Intern Scholarship
Ashton W. Ventura
This summer, I had the opportunity to intern at Nucor Steel–Berkeley, where I received valuable support and resources to grow both professionally and technically in the field of steelmaking. A strong focus on safety culture shaped much of my experience, from presenting safety topics at toolbox meetings to designing and implementing safety-focused projects, and consistently practicing a safety-first mindset. One of my safety projects involved designing and fabricating a sample holder to keep hands away from the grind wheel while preparing samples for microscopy.
I worked on several impactful projects over the summer related to process improvement at the caster. One project involved studying how temperature variations of steel from the ladle metallurgy furnace affects temperature stratification at the tundish and influences product quality. This hands-on project involved designing, welding and installing fixtures to hold temperature probes in the tundish. I also prepared samples and conducted inclusion analysis using a scanning electron microscope.
Another project focused on measuring the depth of liquid flux at the caster mold. Liquid flux is essential because it lubricates the mold to prevent sticking and promotes uniform heat transfer to ensure even solidification of the steel shell. These tests provided valuable insight into the factors that affect liquid flux depth.
I had the chance to participate in a variety of experiences outside the caster. Nucor Steel–Berkeley hosted an intern summit that brought together interns from across the region for networking and professional development. During the summit, I connected with many talented interns from nearby mills, and I helped lead a tour through the mill. Beyond the summit, I assisted with inventories in the scrap yard to gain a broader understanding of the steelmaking process, and I delivered a technical presentation on my projects during a metallurgy quality meeting.
Over the course of my internship, I gained valuable insight into safety practices, metallurgical principles, hands-on mechanical skills and professional development. I’m especially grateful to the team at the caster for their support on my projects, to the metallurgists for their feedback and guidance, and to everyone at Nucor Steel–Berkeley for creating such a safe and welcoming work environment.