This summer, we had the pleasure of hosting Connor McDaniel, a chemical engineering junior from Texas A&M University, as an intern at the SPL flow assurance laboratory in Katy, TX.
Connor’s internship was a mix of hands-on experience, critical thinking, and process improvement. He spent most of his time upgrading our umbilical flushing loop, a project that involved minimizing costs and introducing a new, highly automated operating procedure. For Connor, this was an eye-opening experience that brought classroom theories to life, offering a deep dive into the real-world applications of laboratory testing.
Another significant project Connor tackled was developing a hydrate database, which compiled years of hydrate testing data from various equipment. This project required a technical understanding of testing operations and a keen analytical mindset to organize the data effectively. Connor’s work on this database not only expanded his knowledge of data processing in a lab setting but also deepened his appreciation for the application of data in the industry.
When asked what aspect of the industry he’s most passionate about after his internship, Connor enthusiastically mentioned hydrates. His experience at SPL introduced him to the complexities of subsea production and the critical role chemistry plays in ensuring the safe and efficient flow of produced fluids. This newfound passion for hydrates has even inspired Connor to consider pursuing a PhD, something he hadn’t considered before his time at SPL.
Connor also shared advice for future interns at SPL, praising the supportive and collaborative environment at our Katy flow assurance lab. He emphasized how his leaders and coworkers were always willing to drop everything to help him, creating a culture of learning and camaraderie that made his internship truly special. The unique blend of research and consulting work at SPL gave Connor a taste of both worlds, which he found transformative.
As Connor reflects on his summer at SPL, he mentioned “he’s grateful for the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects and learn from some of the most intelligent and supportive people he’s ever met.” His experience has not only solidified his interest in the energy industry but also opened up new academic and professional interests.
Our Laboratory Director Colton Asheim stated, “Our flow assurance team in Katy takes pride in creating learning opportunities for students in STEM while allowing them to gain real-world experiences to cultivate their professional skills. We were happy to be a small part in Connor’s journey this summer.”
We’re proud to have been a part of Connor’s story and look forward to the impressive achievements he’s sure to accomplish.
