Mechanical Engineering
Contact Information
- Hometown: Knoxville, TN
- E-mail: estepp1@vols.utk.edu
- LinkedIn Profile
Biography
The Heath Integrated Business and Engineering Program was something that caught my eye immediately. The program advertises fostering students to work with both engineers and business students while developing communication, networking, and leadership skills. My experience with the program has allowed me to develop tremendously. Our real-world projects have challenged me to think critically, and I learned how to solve problems systematically. Equipped with the skills IBEP had given me I was excited to make an impact at my internship. In the summer of 2020, I had the opportunity to work as a Product Development Intern with American Accessories International. During the summer I was challenged to create numerous presentations varying from manufacturing processes, supply chain solutions, and product design and packaging. While creating these presentations I worked with several co-workers in order to create well-rounded presentations. My internship this summer allowed me to see how business and engineering intersected when developing products. I was able to observe business decisions being made about possible ventures when variables such as shipping, manufacturing, and investment risk were being considered. The team collaboration experiences I had while working with my cohort helped the transition into working on projects at my internship. My college experience has been defined by the people I have met and places I have traveled. In the summer of 2019, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Milan, where I studied material science with an emphasis on bicycle manufacturing. Additionally, I was able to visit metal extrusion facilities and custom bicycle shops. During my time in Milan, I was again able to observe the importance of understanding both business and engineering. Now as a teaching assistant for EF 157/158 I am learning the importance of clear communication. I am challenged daily on how to encourage students to embrace a new environment and way of learning. During my time as a TA I hope to learn how to motivate people and continue to grow as a leader and student. My immediate professional goals are to gain more industry experience and obtain a Master of Engineering in a more specialized field. While I do not know exactly what field I want to pursue I hope to gain experience creating solutions that emphasize sustainability.
