University of South Alabama Press Release

University of South Alabama, Office of Public Relations

August 26, 2009
Contact: Renee Paul, Office of Public Relations, (251) 460-6640

USA Mechanical Engineering Graduate Receives Alabama Co-op of the Year Award

Andrew Tucker

University of South Alabama engineering graduate Andrew Tucker was named Alabama Co-op of the Year by the Alabama Association of Colleges and Employers (AACE).

The Verbena, Ala., native was selected for the award based on the exceptional contributions he made to his employer, university and community while serving as a cooperative education student at USA.

Tucker, who received his bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering in May 2009, was also named the 2009 Outstanding Co-op Student of the Year this spring by USA’s Career Services Center.

While studying at USA, Tucker worked three semesters at the Chevron Global Downstream Refinery in Pascagoula, Miss. During his final co-op rotation in December 2008, he accepted an offer of full-time employment at Chevron and began working for the company as a design engineer immediately after graduation in May.

Additionally, Tucker is active in several humanitarian outreach programs, including Habitat for Humanity and Global Plunge.

AACE provides avenues for educators and employers to improve professional opportunities for Alabama’s collegiate students and alumni. It provides counsel, direction, and service to the community, businesses, and students in striving to develop a productive, motivated, and competent workforce.

Each year, students from four-year universities and two-year colleges throughout the state can be nominated by their educational institution or employer as the Alabama Co-op or Intern of the Year.