Mechanical Engineering
Biography
My name is Erin Whitmer and I am a sophomore mechanical engineering major from Louisville, Kentucky. Many people are surprised that I entered the university as a neuroscience major. While I ultimately decided to switch to engineering, my passion for understanding how people work is still a very prevalent interest of mine. I love learning to understand both how people and the world around me work, which contributes to my strength as an engineer. While I enjoy my coursework in engineering I find the most joy in interacting with others. My time working as a waitress has impressed me with the importance that small everyday interactions can have on a person’s life. I found that in this job I could make a difference in people’s days by taking the time to listen. As an engineer, I have found that the importance of connections is often lost in the sterile grind and this is very important to me to avoid.
I believe that interpersonal skills may be one of the most necessary skills in engineering. Through my experience in waitressing, I have developed a strong sense of empathy and heart that will set me up for success in the future.
Furthermore, I think resiliency is my most valuable asset as an engineer. Throughout my life, I have been told I cannot do all sorts of things, whether that was taking calculus in high school or switching to engineering, I have found a way to accomplish great things when others have tried to stop me. In addition to these skills, I would describe myself as a great problem solver and highly innovative. I believe that in any team setting, I contribute greatly through my ability to generate ideas until we find a solid solution.
In April 2024, I was honored to join the Heath Integrated Business Engineering Program. In joining this prestigious program, I was hoping to surround myself with other students who truly desired to be the best version of themselves. This program would also offer great enrichment which would set me up to develop all my strengths so they may be more beneficial in an engineering setting. Ultimately, I think that the greatest benefit the HIBEP program has to offer is its mission to bridge the gap between engineering and business by enabling the cohort members to translate their skills to their colleagues effectively.
Currently, some of my engineering interests are medical devices, as well as construction and manufacturing. Additionally, I would like to find a way to work on technology to help address the mental health of those who need help. I am hoping to explore various specializations within mechanical engineering and learn how to bridge between engineering and business in the real world.
