Mechanical Engineering Co-Op Story: Hargrove Controls & Automation

I began my co-op at Hargrove Controls & Automation in January 2026 with little knowledge of electrical, computer science, or controls engineering. As a mechanical engineering student, nearly everything I encountered was new. On my first day, it felt as though I was learning a foreign language that everyone else was already fluent in. Over time, Hargrove transformed that uncertainty into curiosity by teaching me how automation systems support industrial facilities and introducing me to an industry I had never even known existed. Through involvement in five industrial automation projects, I worked alongside controls engineers, designers, project managers, and clients, gaining firsthand experience in how multidisciplinary teams collaborate to deliver successful projects. This experience showed me that engineering success depends on more than technical knowledge, requiring effective collaboration, testing, documentation, and communication throughout every stage of a project.

One of my first assignments was creating HMI graphics from process and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs). Learning to interpret these diagrams helped me understand how industrial plants operate and how equipment such as pumps, valves, tanks, heat exchangers, condensers, boilers, and centrifuges work together within a facility. As my understanding grew, my tasks expanded from HMI development to controller tag configuration, programmable logic controller (PLC) programming, and control logic development. Across two co-op rotations, I developed more than 97 HMI graphics, assisted with ladder logic and function block programming, and supported system configuration and project documentation.

The most impactful part of my co-op was participating in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), where I saw firsthand how automation systems are tested, validated, and presented to clients before startup and commissioning. During my first rotation, I spent two weeks conducting an internal hardware FAT, identifying and resolving issues before the client arrived. As a first-rotation co-op, I then independently led the client FAT, ultimately completing a process scheduled for two days in a single day with minimal action items. During my second rotation, I supported a two-week software FAT through HMI modifications, troubleshooting, documentation development, and client coordination. These experiences gave me greater confidence in taking ownership of engineering responsibilities. During the challenging software FAT, I was recognized by the client for my adaptability, initiative, and composure under pressure. These FATs strengthened my ability to anticipate project needs and contribute effectively in demanding client-facing situations.

Beyond the technical skills I gained, the co-op transformed the way I approach engineering. I learned that asking questions and verifying assumptions are just as important as technical ability, often preventing costly rework and improving project outcomes. Through daily collaboration with engineers and clients, I became more confident sharing ideas, seeking feedback, and contributing independently to project work.