AIST Foundation Steel Intern Scholarship
Luna N. Mancilla Guillermo
I remember my first day at the factory: machinery in constant operation, a demanding pace, and a mixture of nerves and excitement. I did not know that this would be the beginning of not only a key stage in my career, but also my personal development.
At Ternium, every day presents a valuable opportunity for learning and growth. From a technical perspective, I gained insight into the management of real processes, the analysis of operational data, as well as the decision-making process under pressure. I also expanded my personal growth, mastering effective communication, adapting to diverse work styles, and trusting in my abilities even in unfamiliar and challenging professional environments.
The period of my stay at Ternium started on 8 June 2025 and I was there for two months. During this time, I was engaged in professional activities at the technology and processes (T&P) coated area, specifically on painting line 2 at the “Universidad” factory. Adolfo Soto and Josef Graf oversaw my work. Von Westarp and I collaborated with Dafne Gutierrez and the industrial planning team which was comprised of Maribel González and Brayan Herrera.
The preliminary orientation period of the program was dedicated to training, during which the safety protocols, measures to prevent accidents and incidents, and methodologies for identifying risk and danger zones were delineated. Moreover, the courses and documents at Ternium University facilitated my comprehension of the process of coating a steel sheet, whether with a zinc coating or a particular paint coating, contingent upon the requirements of each customer. The presence of a portion of my team during the preliminary days was instrumental, as they assisted in familiarizing myself with the line, delineating the processes, and addressing any queries or concerns that emerged.
The objective of my project focused on contributing to operational management to improve the production efficiency of the “Pintado 2” line. This improvement was achieved by seeking to align the actual duration of the color change with the standard through floor time analysis, along with identifying areas of opportunity within and outside the activities involved in line stoppages due to color changes, fault detection, and support for digitization to control activities and supplies. The daily activities of the subject included the measurement of the time required for the paint to change colors in the paint booths, both for primer and finish, as well as the analysis of any defects in the paint and delays involving these supplies. Prior to implementing color changes, a reorganization of activities was conducted, and a checklist for activities was implemented, with the objective of streamlining the process. In addition to this, the MOST technique was employed in conjunction with the industrial planning team to standardize the time required to change colors. This approach was further augmented by the incorporation of devices that facilitate the control of supplies within the painters. Consequently, I proposed a series of alternatives and recommendations to optimize the cleaning process in the booths. These proposals were designed to enhance efficiency and ensure operator’s safety.
By meticulously monitoring the time required for a color change and being on the line for each change, I gained a comprehensive understanding of all aspects involved in a color change, with the objective of subsequently capturing and identifying it. Subsequently, a reorganization of activities was implemented to expedite the roller cleaning process. This entailed the implementation of improvements and the elimination of activities that were found to be counterproductive and only served to impede progress. Consequently, I standardized the time based on the production history for the year and the month of July. These actions culminated in the development of novel tools aimed at enhancing efficiency and, most notably, the quality of the final product. In my view, the temporal dimension of production extends beyond mere seconds, encompassing the decisions that influence efficiency and safeguard life. Optimizing and consciously enhancing these decisions constitutes a stride towards a more secure and humane environment.
During my time at Ternium, I became cognizant of the fact that time, in the context of production, functions not only as a quantifiable metric but also as a latent force that profoundly influences the trajectory of events. It is imperative to recognize that each moment of deliberation, no matter how brief, has the potential to influence a pivotal decision that can determine the distinction between unfavorable outcomes and favorable ones. This decision can influence the equilibrium between risk and safety, between the conventional and the exceptional, and between the ordinary and the extraordinary. During this period, I was privileged to collaborate closely with the operators, who, in addition to their technical expertise, imparted the significance of perseverance, empathy, and commitment, which serve as the foundation for the industry's human aspect.
The transition to this new stage in my life has been accompanied by a wealth of knowledge and understanding, as well as a series of challenges. This experience has not only enabled me to refine my skills but also to recognize the significance of exchanging ideas and perspectives with individuals who possess a wealth of experience.
Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Association for Iron & Steel Technology for giving me the opportunity to participate in this formative experience. It is a privilege to be a part of an organization that encourages technical and professional advancement in the steel industry. This opportunity has reinforced my commitment to excellence and highlighted the growing influence of women in a sector traditionally dominated by men. I am firmly convinced that having a variety of perspectives is essential to driving innovation and progress in our field.
I would like to express my profound gratitude to AIST for establishing environments conducive to the development, visibility and appreciation of female talent. The transition to this new stage in life is accompanied by a wealth of acquired knowledge and understanding, as well as a range of challenges. It is evident that the knowledge and skills acquired at Ternium will persist and serve as a foundational base for future professional and personal growth.