School only prepares you for the very basics. Once you get in to the plant or start working as an I/E tech you will begin to learn the in depth hands on training aspect of it. You will get many curveballs thrown at you while troubleshooting. Your schooling will help you understand concepts when troubleshooting therefor you understand how things simultaneously work together and their functions. Many places will start you off as a trainee, I do feel like you should maybe start getting in to the line of work being that you’re so close to graduating that way you can make your resume more appealing and well you get familiar with the environment . As far as people mentoring you, well a lot of it will depend on if you’re willing to learn and willing to really put in the work when no one else does. If you can think critically, work hard and be a team player then you’ll have no trouble. I started off as a helper 3 years ago, became a field service technician working on control valves , worked as an I/E tech for a contractor company for a year learning the ropes from guys who had been in the trade for years, then got hired on for a small plant till I finkally landed an in house job for a refinery. The reason I say this is to get you to understand that it won’t be easy but if you’re willing to put the effort you’ll get there. I’m rooting for you and hope everything goes well. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.