Copy of From Co-Op to Professional: Rodolfo's Story

Highlighting the career growth of F&T team members who’ve advanced from co-ops to engineers.

Rodolfo Pilade, Mechanical Designer at F&T

Rodolfo Pilade

Mechanical Designer

In his role as Mechanical Designer, Rodolfo supports the design and coordination of HVAC systems throughout the project lifecycle, contributing to markups, heat load calculations, drafting existing and demo conditions, and designing new systems for a variety of healthcare and institutional projects. His primary focus is to ensure that mechanical systems deliver optimal comfort, energy efficiency, and performance in alignment with project goals and standards.

Since 2012, F&T’s co-op program has introduced students to the MEP/FP consulting industry through hands-on learning and professional development—helping students like Rodolfo gain real-world experience that leads to long-term career growth. Rodolfo joined F&T as a co-op while pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Wentworth Institute of Technology. After graduating in May, he returned to F&T full-time, bringing with him the skills and experience gained during his co-op.

Q&A

CAREER PATH & EXPERIENCE

What motivated you to apply for the co-op program at our firm?

I wanted to get involved in the MEP industry, and I saw a great opportunity at F&T. The great relationship between the company and Wentworth signaled the greenlight to apply. Through my experience at the university, I found myself happy and intrigued by their work mentality, so the deep connection between F&T and WIT was important to me.

What were your expectations going into the co-op, and how did the experience compare? 

My expectations were to learn the technical parts of the industry, but more importantly the integral soul of the profession. The modus operandi of a project from beginning to end, the role of every member of the team and its respective importance, and where could I add more value to the team. As per my experience, I worked at another MEP firm. That gave me basic knowledge on how to use the programs and the basic idea of the job.  

What kind of projects or responsibilities did you work on as a co-op? 

I worked thoroughly with the HVAC Foxtrot team. Mainly on markups, heat load calculations, drafting existing and demo conditions, and designing new systems for different projects. Most of these tasks were assigned to healthcare and institutional facilities. 

LEARNING & GROWTH

What skills or lessons from your co-op experience have been most valuable in your full-time role? 

All the technical knowledge of the programs, basic regulations, design guidelines, and the thinking process. In addition, my coop experience taught me how to work effectively in a collective way, how to prioritize tasks, and understand the weight of deadlines and ethical responsibility.

Did you have mentors or colleagues who influenced your growth during the co-op? 

The Foxtrot team supported me during my experience. Carla, Mark, Alex, and Derek made sure to create a clear path of training and learning, making my experience really special.

TRANSITION TO FULL TIME

What made you decide to stay with us after graduation? 

Having such a positive experience during my Coop, I wanted to continue my path with F&T. I felt good in terms of the technical and integral parts of the craft with the company. In addition, I loved the cultural mindset and workflow of my peers. Those factors made me decide to stay at F&T.   

How did the transition from co-op to full-time employee feel?

It has been exciting. Having more responsibilities and depth is challenging and exciting in a combined way. Thanks to my coop experience, I think I started with a clear personal advantage.  

ADVICE/REFLECTIONS

What advice would you give to incoming co-ops to make the most of their experience? 

I would advise them to ask a lot of questions, to not be afraid of making mistakes, and to get involved as much as they could. Everyone is here to help them with doubts and to guide them. 

Looking back, what was your favorite memory or proudest moment as a co-op? 

My proudest moment as a coop was working as designer on a project for the Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport. I am passionate about aviation and having the opportunity of working on a project like that was truly special.

Inspired by Rodolfo’s journey? Learn more about our Co-op program and explore other success stories here.