Two students from the University of Oklahoma and the University of Texas traveled to Argentina to carry out their professional internship with the IT and Innovation teams.

Two intense months of learning, cultural exchange and new perspectives. That’s how these young students summarized their experience at Techint Engineering & Construction. Itzhak Estrella, who’s studying Computer Science at the University of Texas at Austin, did an internship with the IT team, while Hector Ceballos, a Civil Engineering student from the University of Oklahoma, was an intern with the Innovation team.

The students were on the international internship program established by Pan American Energy (PAE) that aims to promote the exchange of cultural and professional knowledge and experiences, while also enhancing Argentina's industrial potential and capabilities on a global level.

This experience and the connections made increase the potential for partnerships and collaborative work with U.S. universities, strengthening efforts in R&D.

Meeting with the CEO

This is the second year that Techint E&C has participated in the program. Itzhak Estrella joined the IT team as an Engineering Systems Trainee, under the watchful eye of his tutor Christian Azcón, IT Data & Analytics Manager, while Hector Ceballos joined the team headed up by Alejandro Aguirre, Innovation & Knowledge Mgmt. Sr. Manager.

During their last week in Argentina, the interns had a face-to-face meeting at the Bouchard Plaza Tower offices in Buenos Aires with Techint E&C CEO Oscar Scarpari, where they shared their experience in the company and established links for future projects. Both agreed that the Argentine culture, people and scenery were some of the things they enjoyed most about their time in Buenos Aires.

While in Argentina, both trainees visited Córdoba, where they had the opportunity to learn about the Northern Gas Pipeline Reversal project. They also had the chance to spend some time sightseeing and travel to some of the country's most emblematic regions, such as Bariloche and Mendoza.

Teamwork and cultural enrichment

Itzhak commented that he first heard about this opportunity through the Mines Institute for Initiatives in Latin America (IILA) organization. “When I found out I’d been selected, I was beyond excited, not only because of the work experience, but also for the chance to explore a new culture,” he said.

Itzhak was assigned to work on a data analysis project for TEPAM equipment, at the company’s Machinery Park in General Pacheco. He explained how this experience enabled him to learn a lot of things that aren’t taught in books, in addition to being able to talk to professionals in his field. “The internship pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me to improve my communication skills. On top of that, I always felt part of the team, so much so that I’d love to work here again,” he confided. He mentioned that what he liked most about Argentina was the people, including his coworkers. “You can tell that everyone here is very friendly, and this is clear through the way they drink and share the yerba mate tea drink, which is an integral part of Argentine life,” he concluded.

Hector said he learned about the internship opportunity through the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). “When I was selected, I was very excited, but I didn’t know what to expect from Argentina,” he said, confessing that, after his experience, he became fascinated with the country. “My coworkers taught me a lot about local culture and we had a great time in the office. I would definitely like to visit Argentina again and spend more time with the people I met. One of the things I liked most about the country is the meat grilled on the barbecue. It’s one of the best meals I’ve ever had!” he said.

Hector conducted research on 3D concrete printing, a project that included an exhaustive regulatory review as well as an evaluation of technology providers in this field. Techint E&C is developing a pilot project with CEMEX Mexico to use this technology. “In addition to the professional aspect, which was extremely valuable, all the things I learned about the culture and the way Argentines communicate is something I will carry with me forever,” he added.

The program concluded with a closing ceremony held at the San Martín Palace under the aegis of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, an event attended by Scarpari along with Aguirre and Azcón.