…you will always find many more beginning in new directions.

Houston, Texas…a maze of freeways. Going over, under, around or through…but where do they go? Have you ever thought about what would happen if you drove along a freeway and made instant decisions along the way on what exit to take? Where would you end up? I think this is exactly what Saltire has done for us…placed us on a freeway and has set us up for an uncountable amount of paths we can pursue.

My time here in the states has not only developed the young professional I aim to be, but also has taught me a lot about myself. The opportunity we have all experienced this summer has been truly unique and is possibly the most valuable addition to our CV’s.

Over the past 8 weeks I have been involved with the most fast paced professional team I have ever worked with. Unlike other internships I have been involved with or heard about from friends where the daily routine of making the office coffee soon becomes tedious after day 1, this summer has been cutting edge, enjoyable as well as demanding. My role for Wood Group was being part of the Reverse Engineering team. The background to this I have explained in earlier blogs, but what have I gained from this experience?

From a working perspective I have really appreciated the significance that RE can bring to a company. Not only with the complexity and precision that goes into it but also the huge benefits that can be gained. From the work that myself and another engineering intern (and now a good friend), Sotha, did we have saved the company and incredible amount of money…and if the process is implanted correctly, the potential to save even more millions. Not only are there the financial benefits but also such things as quality and inventory control can be improved. By increasing these aspects of the company not only do the reputation of high quality products rise but also even more money is saved by reducing the “waste” products.

From a personal perspective I have loved every minute I have been here. The US “can do” attitude brings a great feeling to the office. There are few conflicts or negative vibes…but when there is they are soon discussed and resolved rationally. This positive environment has given me the confidence to put forward ideas and not to be afraid of speaking my opinion. Over this summer I have learned that when working as part of a team, whether you are a Senior Engineer or an Intern, every voice matters. It is your responsibility to speak up if you feel something is not being done right. If you do and raise an option that the team has not thought of then you will be praised and made to feel truly part of that team. If however you raise a point that is not correct you are not shot down…you are spoken to on an equal level and explained the reasoning behind the decision. Communication…if there was one major thing I was to take from this experience it would be the importance of communication. Whether it be in a team, talking to the president of the company or taking a prospective client out for lunch…communication is vital.

I would like to thank Derek Blackwood, Maribel Socorro, John Lee, Dan Kramer, Erroll Sweat, Tom Bueche and Huw Jones. All of you have made this whole experience really enjoyable and always been there to help make the whole process very smooth and glitch free.

I hope everyone really enjoyed their summer as much as I did and I look forward to meeting you all back home at the Networking Event.

For now though…goodbye from Houston

Phil Gilchrist

RE Intern

Wood Group – Light Industrial Turbines

Summer 2009