I completed 3 co-op rotations with Dow, each at a different plant/location. During each rotation, I worked on some exciting assignments. For my first rotation, I worked at Dow’s Carrollton, KY plant, where I implemented process instrumentation upgrades to provide more accurate measurements for technician troubleshooting. For my second rotation, I worked at the Poly 5 & 6 plant at Dow’s Freeport, TX location. There, I spearheaded a spill containment project to reduce EH&S risk associated with regular hot Line and Equipment Opening (LEO). After working on this project and being introduced to the EH&S world, I went to work for Dow’s Texas Regional Environmental group for my third rotation. During this rotation, I directed a valve leak-by project on a short deadline to meet requirements of the EPA Flare Consent Decree for LHC-8, one of Dow’s light hydrocarbons plants.

My favorite feature of my co-op was working with the plant operators. In my first term, I was mainly working with the engineers, which gave me important experience on understanding the chemical engineering workflow for Dow; however, I never was able to understand exactly who takes the information engineers create and implement it so the plant can run efficiently. During my terms in Texas, I was able to work closely with the Technical Advisors, Board Operators, and Outside Operators and truly appreciate the work that goes into running a chemical plant, not just the engineering aspect of it. They were able to help me understand how they carry out procedures, how they read trends to determine if the plant is operating efficiently or not, and were overall willing to sit down with me and talk me through a concept that I might not have understood immediately. By working with them, I was able to truly appreciate the respect and understanding the chemical engineers and plant operators have for one another and how each role is necessary for the plant to successfully run.

Upon graduating in May 2025, I will be returning to work for Dow in Freeport, TX as an EHS&S engineer! During my third rotation, I was able to truly thrive in the EHS&S world. I was able to work with a wide variety of engineers/operators, complete exciting projects, and was able to travel between plants in order to help them remain in compliance. My co-op with Dow taught me so much, not just about the company, but also how to be a good chemical engineer. I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am without my co-op, and I’m extremely excited to start full-time with Dow in the fall!