What are you doing today?

I am still with the same company, although it was sold and it is now named Sensata Technologies. My current project is in MEMs (micro electro mechanical) sensors. I work on a sensor that helps diesel engines run more efficiently.

What excites you most about the future of your professional field?

Engineering is now global. All projects require you to work with people in other countries… it is a great experience!

What personal advice would you give to high-school students considering a career in engineering?

Talk to people who are engineers now, they can tell you a lot more about how an engineering job is in real life. Engineering is a lot more than physics and math. It also involves a lot of creativity and discipline. It can be a great career! Also, make the most out of your classes. You do use all the things you learn in the classroom.

What was your first job after graduation, and how did it impact your career?

My first job was as mechanical design engineer for Texas Instruments Inc. I was responsible for a transmission pressure sensor for General Motors. The first cars that used this sensor were the Corvette and the Cadillac Escalade. Through this job I realized I love working in the automotive industry because it is really fast-paced.

What was your greatest experience while attending the College of Engineering here at MSU?

Studying abroad in England.

How does your profession impact people's lives?

Sensors help people in many ways. Some of them make the engines run cleaner so they don’t contaminate as much; others regulate airbags, for instance, making the cars more safe.

How were you inspired to become an engineer?

My dad was a mechanical engineer as well, so my curiosity for engineering started at a very young age. My dad will always take the time to explain to me how things worked and what his work was like. Later on, in high school I realized I was not as quick with math as other kids, so for sometime I doubted I could do well in engineering. However, one teacher once told me that "as long as you love what you do, you will do it well and you will have a great advantage over many people."