Mechanical Engineering
Biography
My name is Hunter Dance, and I am a mechanical engineering major at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT). Born and raised in Knoxville, I have always been fascinated by how things work. This curiosity, paired with my perseverance, analytical mindset, and problem-solving abilities, led me to pursue engineering—a field that combines my natural strengths with a career path that challenges and excites me.
Throughout my life, I have valued hard work and leadership. Much of this stems from my years of involvement in sports, where I learned how to lead teams, motivate others, and remain determined in the face of challenges. These lessons have carried over into both academics and life, teaching me the importance of persistence, resilience, and collaboration in achieving long-term goals.
I decided to join the Heath Integrated Business and Engineering Program because of my strong interest in the intersection between engineering and business. Growing up in a family with a business background, I was always intrigued by how companies operate, and the role engineering plays in their success. Heath IBEP provides the perfect environment to bridge these two worlds—offering mentorship opportunities, professional networking, and exposure to industry practices. I am particularly excited to learn what it takes to not only be an effective engineer but also understand the broader business strategies that drive innovation and growth.
Looking ahead, my immediate professional goals include securing internships during college where I can apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, develop technical and leadership skills, and explore different industries within engineering. In the long term, I envision pursuing a career that combines my engineering expertise with my business interests, whether as a project manager, a leader within an engineering organization, or even the owner of my own firm. With the foundation I am building at UT and through Heath IBEP, I feel well-prepared to take the next steps toward achieving these goals.
