Mechanical Engineering
Biography
My name is Roan Anderson, and I am a mechanical engineering major in the 2028 cohort of the Heath Integrated Business and Engineering Program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. From a young age, I have been drawn to both the challenge and creativity involved in solving problems, and I hope to combine these passions through engineering and entrepreneurship.
Running has been a defining part of my life. The patience required to build endurance, the perseverance to push through difficult miles, and the commitment to long-term goals mirror the qualities necessary for academic and professional success. In addition to running, I enjoy snowboarding, hiking, camping, and weightlifting. These activities not only keep me active but also reinforce values like discipline, resilience, and consistency. Whether tackling a new trail or setting a personal record in the gym, I embrace challenges with determination and optimism—qualities that I carry into my studies and career aspirations.
Although I was naturally inclined toward engineering—having grown up in a family of engineers—I have always been equally fascinated by the world of business. The Heath Integrated Business and Engineering Program appealed to me because it bridges the gap between technical expertise and business acumen, creating opportunities to excel in both fields. By combining these two perspectives, I aim to prepare myself to solve complex, real-world problems that require both innovative technical solutions and strategic thinking.
Looking ahead, my immediate professional goal is to pursue a career that integrates my engineering foundation with entrepreneurial ambitions. Ultimately, I aspire to found my own company focused on addressing environmental challenges such as global warming. My vision is to leverage technology and sustainable design principles to create innovative solutions that reduce human impact on the environment.
Through Heath IBEP, I aim to sharpen my leadership and collaborative skills while gaining the knowledge necessary to turn my ideas into reality. I am excited to grow alongside peers who share a passion for innovation and prepare myself for a career where I can merge my love for nature, dedication to discipline, and engineering expertise to make a lasting impact.
