Q: What led you to Messiah University and the engineering program?
My parents met at Messiah University and were both graduates of the class of ’88. Growing up, my brother and I both frequented the campus for swimming classes and soccer games. At first, I was reluctant to follow my family members to Messiah. Once I attended an Open House day, I knew my journey for selecting a university was done. I remember the overwhelming sense of belonging within the Messiah community. I also remember meeting the engineering faculty and realizing that they could have worked anywhere in industry, but instead they chose to inspire young minds on campus and change lives globally through the Collaboratory.
Q: What experiences occurred throughout your Messiah experience that ensured you had selected the right field of engineering?
At Messiah, I started as a mechanical engineering student. One day, a professor invited me to a presentation by the Collaboratory bridge team. This led me to being part of the bridge team and traveling to Oaxaca, Mexico. Through the experience of bridge building and seeing the impact it had on the community, I knew civil engineering was what I was called to do. Most of my Collaboratory experience after that first trip was with a bridge team. Not only did participating teach me valuable engineering skills, it gave me the ability to see how my knowledge in civil engineering can be used to transform lives and empower people all over the world.
Q: What does your current work entail and what are some of the most unique and rewarding projects that you are working on?
I currently work as a structural engineer-in-training at Modjeski and Masters in their movable bridge unit. This unit specializes in bascule (draw), vertical lift, and swing bridges. Moveable bridges are a niche in the civil engineering design world so I feel fortunate to be part of this team and to learn from my colleagues.
Q: How did your time at the Collaboratory help you prepare for your career?
The Collaboratory experience directly related to why I was hired. The Collaboratory taught me how to use my classroom knowledge to solve real-world engineering problems. Experiences in cultural awareness, meeting a client’s budget, working with fellow engineers and advisors, and selecting materials accessible in the marketplace were all transferrable to my current work. The Collaboratory also provided me the opportunities to engage and network with industry professionals. Beyond my career, the Collaboratory taught me how to use my skills for the service of others.
Q: Were there any moments during the Collaboratory travel that you will never forget?
I had the opportunity to travel two times with the Collaboratory. My first trip was to Mexico for the construction of a timber truss bridge and second trip was to Panama to survey a potential bridge project. Both trips were filled with memorable moments including being immersed while serving in another culture. The friendships developed between the students, professors, missionary partners, and community members were irreplaceable. In Panama, spending time with the missionary partner from Rio Missions Panama was the most impactful part of the trips. For two years I had heard stories from other students who had worked with him. This missionary’s faith and heart for service were inspirational and continue to impact my faith journey.