Hamza I. Qureshi
Pacific Steel Group, Mojave Micro Mill
With the AIST Steel Intern Scholarship, I had the incredible opportunity to spend this past summer as an engineering intern with Pacific Steel Group (PSG) in Mojave, Calif. I joined the team during an exciting phase of the Mojave Micro Mill project, a greenfield steel facility currently under construction that is scheduled to begin operation in 2027. Once completed, it will be the most environmentally friendly steel plant in the world, making it a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of a modern steel mill from the ground up.
Throughout the internship, I worked alongside an outstanding group of engineers and professionals, including Steven Roloff, senior project manager; Felipe Mira, mill automation manager; Gregory Jackson, maintenance general foreman; Hugo Lopes, director of engineering; Ray Ista, mechanic; and many others whose guidance and willingness to share their years of experience made this an invaluable time. Being surrounded by engineers, tradespeople and various contractors taught me not only the technical aspects of steelmaking, but also the collaboration required to successfully execute a project like this. One of the most rewarding aspects was gaining an understanding of the steelmaking process. From scrap receiving and melting in the electric arc furnace, to continuous casting, rolling and rebar fabrication, I learned how each stage of production connects together. I also developed an appreciation for the extensive automation and power infrastructure that enables a modern steel mill to operate.
My responsibilities exposed me to a wide range of engineering applications. Working on the maintenance side, under Steven Roloff, I verified and procured instrumentation for the rolling mill, including control valves, gauges, flowmeters and switches required for construction. I also compared piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) against the Navisworks 3D coordination model and field construction to identify discrepancies that could affect commissioning and future operation. Regular site walks to verify installed piping and learn more about the equipment as its being set in reinforced the importance of all the communication and collaboration between engineering, construction and operations teams. Beyond the rolling mill, I helped modify the design and layout of the workshop lathe installation using AutoCAD by accounting for both vertical and horizontal clearances. I also performed load calculations for sections of the pre- and post-water treatment systems and assisted in evaluating mobile crane options for construction activities. These assignments challenged me to learn the proper tools and apply what I’ve learned to real engineering problems.
Safety was another defining aspect of my internship. At PSG, safety was embedded into all aspects of the project and future operations. With Gregory Jackson, I had the opportunity to lead daily safety meetings by presenting new safety topics and facilitating discussions about the evolving worksite. I also participated in weekly maintenance safety and culture meetings that emphasized integrity and accountability in the work we do.
Becoming integrated into PSG’s growing culture while contributing to one of the industry’s most ambitious projects expanded both my knowledge and perspective on the steel industry. Working across many disciplines while watching the steelmaking process take shape was an experience unlike any other. I’m grateful to Pacific Steel Group for welcoming me to the team and entrusting me with meaningful projects. I would also like to thank the AIST Foundation for making this opportunity possible and would encourage others to pursue it as well. This internship and the experience I’ve gained has strengthened my growth as an engineer early in my career and reinforced my excitement for a career in steel.