Teammate Spotlight: Megan McIntosh – A Passion for Learning

Meet Megan McIntosh, a standout Automation and Controls Engineer at Hargrove Controls & Automation in Mobile, AL, where she has been an integral team member since 2018. Megan’s technical expertise, combined with her passion for continuous learning, has made her an invaluable asset to the company.

In her role, Megan primarily focuses on configuration and graphics work for major control systems such as DeltaV, Rockwell Automation, and Honeywell, with a special emphasis on sequencing and batch processes. Her work extends beyond the office, as she frequently visits client sites to oversee startup and commissioning, and troubleshoot complex issues, ensuring operations continue seamlessly. Recently, Megan contributed her expertise to a significant greenfield project where she played an important role in implementing Rockwell Automation technology.

Early Career

Originally from Huntsville, AL, Megan began her STEM journey in high school with an internship at a small engineering firm that supported the Department of Defense. The company specialized in software design and modeling for high-profile projects like the Patriot missile system and the Hellfire missile. This early exposure to advanced technology and high-stakes engineering laid the foundation for her future career.

Megan continued her education by earning a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Auburn University. During her time at Auburn, she worked as a co-op with Hargrove Controls & Automation, completing three rotations that led to a full-time job offer after graduation. On her very first day at Hargrove, Megan displayed her impressive problem-solving skills by troubleshooting a malfunctioning control valve on a client site, setting the tone for her impactful career.

Working at Hargrove

Beyond her technical expertise, Megan is also deeply involved in Hargrove’s sustainability efforts. As a Hargrove Sustainability Champion, she actively participates in monthly initiatives aimed at promoting eco-friendly practices within the company and the local community. These efforts include developing greener processes and supporting renewable energy investments. Currently, Megan’s team is leading a clothing drive to address the environmental impact of the fashion industry, recycling business attire by donating it to a local charity that helps individuals in need.

Megan is equally passionate about giving back through mentorship. She is actively involved in Hargrove Controls & Automation’s college co-op and high school internship programs, where she helps recruit and mentor the next generation of engineers. In addition to participating in the interview and recruitment process, she serves as a supervisor for high school interns during the summer. “I really enjoy seeing the younger engineers I’ve mentored thrive in this field,” Megan shared.

In 2023, Megan’s accomplishments were recognized when she was named one of Control Engineering’s Engineering Leaders Under 40. This prestigious award honors young professionals making significant contributions to the fields of manufacturing and engineering. Looking ahead, Megan plans to further advance her career by taking the Fundamentals in Engineering (FE) exam and working toward obtaining her Professional Engineering (PE) license within the next five years.

“Megan has earned Teammate of the Quarter twice, which is proof of her hard work and dedication,” said Robert Arnone, Hargrove Controls & Automation Industry Leader Petrochemical East. “She is a talented and committed engineer who consistently goes above and beyond, always eager to take on new challenges and push herself to grow. Her ability to remain calm under pressure and deliver high-quality results is impressive. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her; her career is certainly one to watch, and I have no doubt she will continue to make significant contributions to the industry.”

Outside of Hargrove

Outside of work, Megan enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Avon, and their two dogs, Bo Barkley – named after Bo Jackson and Charles Barkley – and Nova, named after one of Auburn’s eagles. Weekends are often spent outdoors, whether relaxing at the beach or fishing in the bay. While she’s excited by any catch, catfish remains her favorite, and she’s been learning how to cook her weekend catches, blending her love for fishing with her passion for cooking.

When asked what she loves most about working at Hargrove, Megan shared, “There’s always a new project that’s unlike anything you’ve done before, so it’s never the same thing every day. I love the variety and countless opportunities to grow. The work is challenging but incredibly rewarding. I take great pride in fixing something that was broken.”