Hailey Peitersen, a junior majoring in chemical engineering, was selected as the summer 2025 Outstanding Co-op Student by the Engineering Career Development Center. Peitersen recently completed her third term with ONEOK in Dallas, Texas, where she conducted engineering studies for system optimization and potential system expansion projects and contributed to managing capital projects.
During her time with ONEOK, Peitersen led a fast-paced capital project valued at nearly $500,000, meeting budget and schedule targets while safely coordinating a major station shutdown, completing all tie-ins three hours ahead of schedule. She also developed a working hydraulic model of newly acquired company assets, which was used to evaluate a potential commercial deal and determine necessary capital investments.
Peitersen’s supervisor, Mark Scott, director of engineering at ONEOK, commended her initiative and dedication. “Hailey has made a great impression, and she has represented The University of Alabama very well. In my 22 years of experience, I have never seen someone her age take on this level of responsibility and consistently exceed expectations,” Scott said.
Peitersen said the co-op strengthened her professional and personal growth. She was trusted with meaningful projects, treated as a full-time engineer and gained confidence in taking ownership of her work. The mentorship she received from coworkers and supervisors guided her through complex challenges and solidified her passion for the oil and gas industry. Her experience also strengthened her interest in pursuing a career as a process engineer or project manager while inspiring her to help future students embrace the cooperative education program.
“Being awarded co-op student of the semester for summer 2025 is an immense honor,” Peitersen said. “Choosing to leave campus and my friends for a full year was both nerve-racking and exciting as an underclassman. Taking that leap of courage to participate in the cooperative education program was one of the most impactful decisions I’ve made. This award represents the growth, commitment and professional development I gained through that experience.”
For more information about the College’s co-op program, visit https://coop.sa.ua.edu/cooperative-education/.