LA PORTE, TEXAS – Last Monday, Doosan Turbomachinery Services (DTS) opened its doors to a group of eager engineering students from Texas A&M University’s Department of Marine Engineering Technology. The event provided these future engineers with an opportunity to observe and engage with some of the most advanced practices in the turbomachinery industry. With a carefully planned agenda, DTS aimed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and the practical demands of the field.

Dr. Scott Keller presenting an overview and safety briefing to students from Texas A&M’s Department of Marine Engineering Technology

President Glenn Turner and VP of Operations, Matt Lau drop in to meet the students and kick-off their visit

Assistant Professor of the Practice, Adam Reeves addresses the students during their safety briefing

The visit began with a comprehensive safety briefing, a critical component in any industrial setting, especially one involving large-scale machinery and intricate repair processes. The DTS team emphasized the importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards throughout all operations. “A main goal of our company is to successfully execute technically challenging projects, while ensuring the safety of all of team members. Safety is at the core of all of our daily efforts.,” Director of Engineering, Dr. Scott Keller explained, underscoring the company’s commitment to workplace safety.

A&M student’s touring the Component Facility

Following the safety orientation, students were introduced to DTS’s extensive capabilities and core operational areas. This overview showcased the breadth of DTS’s work, especially in ensuring that power generation systems across the United States and beyond are kept in optimal condition. For students specializing in marine engineering, the connection between power generation reliability and the machinery they are studying was invaluable.

A&M student’s listening intently and following up with specific questions during their tour

A&M student’s listening intently during their tour of the Rotor Facility

A&M student’s listening intently during their tour of the Rotor Facility

Guided by experienced engineers, including several Texas A&M alumni, the students explored key areas of the facility, starting with the rotor, component, and heavy mechanical divisions. Each department demonstrated a specific phase in the machinery repair process, from intake and disassembly to repair, reassembly, and final testing. This structured approach gave the students a clear understanding of the sequential steps involved in restoring machinery to peak performance.

A&M student’s viewing one of the many rotor pits at DTS

“Getting to see the entire process from start to finish was amazing,” said one student. “It’s one thing to learn about these systems and science in a textbook, but to actually witness how these complex machines are broken down, repaired and reassembled gave us all a new appreciation for the skill involved.”

Another notable aspect of the tour was the hands-on experience DTS provided, giving students a feel for the tools and equipment used in turbomachinery repairs. This experiential learning allowed the students to build confidence in an industry setting. They learned about the technical intricacies involved in maintaining and repairing large-scale machinery—a glimpse into the responsibilities they may soon take on.

A&M student’s listening to an overview of general rotor repair

The students were particularly impressed with DTS’s cutting-edge facility. The state-of-the-art technology, combined with the meticulous engineering practices they observed, left a lasting impression. “It was inspiring to see such high levels of precision and expertise,” commented another student, who noted the clear link between these competencies and the company’s impact on power generation reliability.

A&M student’s engaging with questions about the coating process on rotor blades

DTS’s commitment to supporting the next generation of engineers extends beyond facility tours. With a number of Texas A&M alumni on staff, the company has a long-standing connection with the university and frequently participates in mentoring, training, and internship programs. As one DTS engineer shared, “Texas A&M Galveston is a world class institution that prepared us for the challenges of the turbomachinery industry. The knowledge gained at A&M provides students the fundamentals to be successful in their future careers, whether at sea or on land. ”

A&M student’s getting an overview of the robotic technology and coding process behind the coating for various parts

In hosting the Texas A&M students, DTS continues to foster valuable connections between academia and industry, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience in shaping the engineers of tomorrow. As the tour concluded, students left with a newfound appreciation for the critical role that skilled engineering plays in powering the world.