Intern Spotlight: Abigail Charleston

August 24, 2021

AdvanceTEC intern Abigail Charleston got off to a fast start this summer working with our engineering and design team! Abigail was brought on as a mechanical engineering intern where she was tasked with assisting our team with HVAC calculations, P&IDs, and airflow simulations. 

It did not take long for our team to assign her some work. “My main task was to learn how to use AutoCAD Plant 3D. After weeks of research and watching tutorials, I was able to create my first P&ID. I then developed a template that the team could use for future work.”

As Abigail progressed through her internship, she soon found out that there was not much downtime when working with our team. “At the beginning of the summer, I had to refresh my Revit knowledge since I had not used it in almost two years. I was then taught a new set of vocabulary to communicate with the other engineers about P&IDs. Additionally, I learned what each variable in the airflow calculations meant and their impact on the cleanroom. Lastly, I learned how to calculate the duct size of low wall returns to make sure the air meets the needs of each room.  

AdvanceTEC intern using virtual reality to walkthrough a cleanroom

When asked about what she enjoyed most about her internship, Abigail was quick to point out that the AdvanceTEC team was one of her favorite things about her experience. I felt welcomed from the second I walked into the office. Despite having little experience in the field, I still knew my thoughts and ideas were listened to and accepted by everyone. The team valued the work I’ve done which is satisfying because it is hard to find internships that truly value your work.”

Abigail gives credit to Parker Brookfield and everyone in the mechanical team for helping her along the way. “I would like to thank them for all their support. I was working with programs that were completely new to me, but they were patient and willing to help me the best they could.”

At the end of the summer, Abigail will be heading back to James Madison University where she will be working towards her degree in engineering.

Bryan Phelan
Managing Partner, Director of Customers

As managing partner, Phelan is responsible for ensuring client satisfaction, shaping the company’s strategic direction, and managing all compliance aspects of the organization.

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