This summer, Pranav Nair and Nitya Mahawar brought their passion for problem-solving to Phoenix Mecano, gaining hands-on experience while exploring what a future in engineering could look like. While their projects focused on different areas of the business, both students share a common connection: they are mechanical engineering students at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Nitya is an incoming sophomore in the Class of 2028, while Pranav recently completed his bachelor’s degree and is now pursuing a master’s degree, with plans to graduate in 2027 or 2028.
For Pranav, engineering has always been closely tied to an interest in robotics and automation. That interest led him to Phoenix Mecano, where a facility tour during the interview process left a lasting impression. Seeing a robotic arm in action helped solidify his excitement about the opportunity and ultimately led him to a summer spent working on robotic automation for DIN rail assembly. Through the project, he gained experience with programming, simulation, and system integration while seeing firsthand how automation can improve manufacturing processes. He also credits Benedikt Moeller for being a steady sounding board throughout the experience, giving him the freedom to explore the project at his own pace while offering guidance and feedback as he developed his ideas.
Outside of engineering, Pranav enjoys cooking and baking, often experimenting with new recipes and sharing meals with friends. In many ways, he sees similarities between the kitchen and engineering—both involve creativity, problem-solving, and a willingness to learn through trial and error.
Nitya’s path to engineering began long before college. Early exposure to aerospace and clean-room environments, combined with years of involvement in robotics programs, sparked her interest in mechanical engineering and hands-on problem solving. At Phoenix Mecano, she worked with quality and manufacturing teams on projects involving value stream mapping and process optimization, gaining valuable insight into how products move from design to production.
One of the most meaningful parts of Nitya’s experience was the opportunity to work alongside people throughout the organization. Whether spending time on the production floor, observing quality inspections, or learning from machinists and technicians, she gained a broader understanding of how different teams collaborate to solve problems and continuously improve processes. She credits Kaly Chichiraky and others across the company for helping create those learning opportunities and encouraging her to explore beyond the scope of her project.
When she’s not an engineer, Nitya can usually be found outdoors. Camping, hiking, kayaking, and spending time in nature provide a welcome contrast to the fast-paced world of manufacturing and technology. Her annual camping trips have become a favorite tradition and a reminder of the importance of stepping away from screens and reconnecting with the outdoors.
Through the Frederick County Community Internship Program, both interns also connected with students from organizations throughout the region and attended professional development events focused on leadership, networking, and personal growth. Along the way, they met fellow students with similar interests, learned about the Japanese concept of Ikigai, and gained a deeper appreciation for the Frederick business community.
As they look ahead, both Pranav and Nitya say the experience helped clarify their future goals. Pranav hopes to continue pursuing opportunities in robotics and controls, while Nitya is exploring how manufacturing and quality might fit into her long-term career path. Despite their different interests, both share the same advice for future interns: stay curious, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to take initiative. Some of the most valuable lessons happen when you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone and learn by doing.
For Phoenix Mecano, internships are about more than projects—they’re about giving students opportunities to grow, contribute, and discover what excites them. Pranav and Nitya’s experience is a strong example of what can happen when curiosity meets opportunity.
