Junior in electrical engineering named Auburn Engineering Frank Vandegrift Co-op Student of the Year

Katie Day, a junior in electrical and computer engineering, was named the 2024-2025 Auburn Engineering Frank Vandegrift Co-op Student of the Year.

The Engineering Career Development and Corporate Relations office (CDCR) presents the award to an outstanding Auburn student each year in honor of Frank Vandegrift, former director of Auburn University’s Cooperative program.

“This award is such an honor. I never assumed I would have received it, but it was a full-circle moment for me — rounding out my education, experience and time here at Auburn,” Day said. “This award is a reminder that experience is the most important thing for growth as an engineer.”

Day spent this past year as a co-op student at Southern Nuclear, collaborating with a variety of engineering disciplines at Plant Farley. She recalls her time at Southern Nuclear as transformative in her skill set and leadership abilities.

“Throughout my experience, I took on more leadership responsibilities, from mentoring new interns to taking on additional projects,” Day said. “It was challenging, but it molded me into a leader who can manage difficult and uncomfortable situations.”

Day is also an executive chair for the Cupola Engineering Ambassadors and a vice chair for the North American Young Generation in Nuclear Auburn chapter. She credits her confidence and success to the CDCR office and the resources and support it provided for her.

“I took advantage of mock interviews, resume workshops, the Campus Career Closet and more,” Day said. “It not only prepared me but gave me the confidence to sign up for the Co-op and Intern Interview days. This is where I was able to meet with Southern Nuclear and eventually interview to get my co-op.”

Looking forward, Day will return to Plant Farley as an electrical systems engineer, a role she landed during her co-op.

“I am very excited to return the plant, people and company I know and love so much,” Day said. “This experience, from my co-op to the Vandegrift award, was confirmation that I can be a successful engineer and leader.”

In addition to the award, Day will also receive $1,000 scholarship and a plaque in recognition of the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering CDCR office.