Ellen’s passion for environmental engineering led her to SciDev, where she quickly immersed herself in our chemical services sector. From day one, she was actively involved in critical projects, gaining invaluable experience in various laboratory techniques. Ellen honed her skills in various chemical testing, using advanced equipment like Brookfield and Offite viscometers, and mastering new software for data analysis. This direct engagement allowed her to not only understand complex chemical processes but also to contribute meaningfully to our work.
We sat down with Ellen and asked her about her experience at SciDev as an Intern. Here are some key insights from our interview:
Tell us a bit about yourself?
” I am Ellen Shull, a Chemical Engineering student at Colorado School of Mines. I’m driven by a passion for creating sustainable solutions and applying chemistry to solve pressing environmental challenges.”
What inspired you to pursue an internship at SciDev?
“SciDev presented an ideal opportunity to begin my industry experience, given its services to diverse sectors including oil & gas, mining, construction and water treatment. Recognizing energy’s vital role in daily life, I was eager to experience being a part of a company that helps facilitate it. SciDev also offered a welcoming community and culture alongside numerous new opportunities.
What new lab techniques, equipment, or software did you learn to use during your internship?
“I gained proficiency in several new lab techniques including operating a Brookfield and an Ofite viscometer during a viscosity profile project. Additionally, I enhanced my skills in efficiently communicating and organizing data using Excel.”
You’ve been involved in both quality testing on chemicals for the energy services team and water quality testing for the water technologies team. Can you describe some of the specific tasks or projects you worked on for each team?
“Early in the summer, I initiated a viscosity profile project, which involved mixing friction reducers and determining their viscosities in a range of brines at different concentrations. This created a crucial reference tool for product selection based on onsite water composition. Another significant project focused on iron testing; this entailed adding an iron solution to a product treated with CatChekTM (SciDev’s multifunctional patented clay control additive) to observe the precipitation threshold. I also conducted baseline water analysis, performing numerous titrations to evaluate hardness, carbonates/bicarbonate presence, pH, TDS, conductivity, and specific gravity. My most recent project was a kill study, the results of which will inform SciDev’s recommendations for biocide amounts to mitigate bacterial disruptions for a key client.”
Beyond the lab, Ellen’s experience extended to our “on-the-ground” operations. Visiting a well site in South Texas provided her with a unique perspective, connecting her lab work directly to real-world applications in water management and treatment. This firsthand exposure solidified her understanding of industry challenges and how SciDev’s solutions make a tangible impact.
What was the most rewarding part of your internship experience at SciDev?
“The most rewarding aspect of my internship has been witnessing the real-world application of chemicals and processes. Visiting the well site was an exciting full-circle moment, as it allowed me to see precisely how the chemicals that I tested in the lab translate directly to real world applications.”
You also went to a roughneck camp. What was the atmosphere like there, and what were your interactions with the people working in the field?
“Attending the roughneck camp hosted by SPE Young Professionals, was a truly enriching experience. I connected with numerous peers who shared a common interest in career growth within the industry, and a collective eagerness to learn from seasoned professionals. It was particularly insightful to observe the diverse career paths available within the energy sector and how various roles collaborate to ensure operational success. Among the most engaging discussions were those surrounding the ongoing development of AI in the oil field, alongside advancements in energy sectors like lithium extraction and carbon capture.”
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your summer 2025 internship at SciDev?
“My summer at SciDev has been incredibly enriching, deepening my understanding of chemicals and providing proficiency in many new lab techniques. I have gained valuable insights on comprehending complex issues like iron and other critical environmental challenges, such as PFAS. SciDev offered a genuinely welcoming and educational environment, and I extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this internship so beneficial.”
Ellen credits her time at SciDev with significantly broadening her knowledge of the chemical side of the oil and gas industry, particularly in understanding complex issues like iron and the use of polymers in friction reducers. She also gained valuable insights into environmental challenges, such as PFAS and other contaminations in water, reinforcing SciDev’s commitment to sustainable solutions.
At SciDev, we’re proud to offer internships that provide a comprehensive, hands-on, and empowering experience. Ellen’s time at SciDev is a testament to our dedication to fostering talent and providing a platform for future leaders to thrive.
