Refinery re-invigorates Summer Intern program
Torrance Refinery hosted seven Engineering Interns this summer after pausing its program due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Students Keily Morimoto, James Tran, Torger Berge, Jessica Tang, Luke Walker, Spencer Golpashin and Alejandro Guzman represented UCLA, USC, UC Irvine, and California State University, Long Beach.
Jessica Tang, who is studying mechanical engineering at UCLA, grew up in Torrance and remembers Torrance Refinery as a familiar sight. “I’ve had a wonderful time as an engineer intern here. Growing up in Torrance, with a family business a few miles away, the refinery was always a constant, but vague, neighbor,” said Tang. Now, after spending a summer learning about the refinery and refining industry, Tang has a better understanding of the business. “I didn’t really understand what the refinery did, but now I know what the people inside do, in addition to all the safety mechanisms in place to keep everyone safe,” Tang noted.
Interns were paired with a mentor and had the opportunity to work on multiple projects, conduct research, go into the refinery, and explore different aspects of the refining business. At the end of their tenure, they presented a project to refinery staff.
The program is a valuable experience and gives students a realistic view of the value of being a refinery engineer and the importance of working safely, and reliable operations. “Almost weekly I was in meetings where they consistently brought up safety awareness, for yourself, your assignments, and the people around you. When they say that safety is the number one priority here, it really is,” Tang said.
Torrance Refining Company wishes to thank all of the interns for their great work and wish each one success in their academic career and future endeavors.