Physics Major (Masters in Civil Engineering, Oregon State University, 2010)
Engineer Associate, Public Works, Austin, Texas
Current projects
I'm an engineer associate with the City of Austin and I primarily work on bicycle
infrastructure design (bike lanes and urban trails). I am currently an Engineer
in Training working towards a Professional Engineering license.
Undergraduate Research
Starting the summer after my freshman year and continuing until graduation, I
worked with Dr. Bob Dunn using large ring laser gyroscopes to detect rotational
components of seismic waves from earthquakes and hurricanes. My work included constructing
and maintaining the ring lasers as well as collecting and analyzing data. I also
gave a presentation at the Arkansas Space Grant Consortium and traveled to Christchurch,
New Zealand to collaborate with researchers at the University of Canterbury.
How Hendrix prepared me for success
The traditional path to a career as an engineer begins with an undergraduate
degree in engineering, but my liberal arts education has been highly beneficial
during both my graduate studies and my current work. At Hendrix I developed communication
and problem solving skills along with a strong background in math and science. I
was completely prepared for the technical aspects of my graduate studies. I highly
value the unique perspective and skill set that I obtained from Hendrix; I use them
every day as an engineer with the City of Austin.
Future plans
At the moment I'm doing exactly what I want to do. I have a job that I feel passionately
about, matches my aptitudes, and most importantly – I enjoy.
My advice
Enjoy the cafeteria – you'll miss it when you're gone.