AIST Foundation Steel Intern Scholarship
Nate N.F. Harris
This summer, I had the opportunity to intern with Gerdau’s engineering department in Selkirk, Man., Canada. It was an experience that strengthened both my technical skills and my long-term vision as an aspiring mechanical engineer.
In the fall, I’ll be entering my third year of mechanical engineering, specializing in energy and environment at the University of British Columbia. I’ve always been drawn to sustainability and how industry can evolve to meet the demands of a low-carbon future. Gerdau, a leading steel manufacturer known for its commitment to recycling and innovation, is the perfect place to learn how large-scale engineering can align with environmental responsibility.
During my internship, I worked alongside a talented team of engineers focused on maintaining and improving critical systems within the steel mill. I assisted with engineering projects, improved my ability on how to interpret technical drawings, and grew my skillset for things like CAD and mechanical design.
The learning curve was steep but rewarding, and every day brought something new. Whether it was donning PPE to inspect machinery, shadowing experienced professionals, or seeing the direct impact of engineering decisions on production and safety, I was constantly learning. I gained valuable insight into how a circular economy works in practice. Gerdau uses recycled scrap metal to produce new steel products, minimizing waste and resource consumption.
One of the most memorable parts of my internship was seeing how engineering decisions are not just technical but deeply collaborative. Whether it was working with tradespeople on the floor, interns like myself, vendors, or other departments, I saw firsthand how communication and teamwork drive successful outcomes.
This internship expanded my understanding of mechanical systems and reinforced why I chose the energy and environmental stream. In the coming years, I hope to help industries transition toward cleaner, more efficient technologies. My experience at Gerdau has given me both the inspiration and the tools to do that.
I’m grateful for the mentorship and support I received from everyone at the Selkirk plant, and from AIST. The investment by Gerdau and AIST in young engineers like me reflects a broader commitment to innovation and sustainability in the steel industry. I’m proud to have been a part of it.