Where are you from, and what sparked your interest in STEM and, ultimately, your decision to apply for the Department of War SMART Scholarship?
I am from Madison, Alabama. Both my father and grandfather are engineers, which sparked my interest in STEM. Additionally, I have always been fascinated by the role my hometown played in national security and space exploration. I saw the SMART scholars program as a great opportunity to further my education beyond just a bachelor's degree, which led me to decide to apply for a scholarship.
Tell me about your educational journey. What are you studying (university and major), and was there a specific class, project, or mentor that solidified your passion for your field?
After graduating from James Clemens High School in Madison, Alabama, in May 2021, I enrolled at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, in August 2021. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in materials engineering in May 2025, and I plan to graduate with a master's in materials engineering in May 2026. My Intro to Materials Science class solidified my interest in materials engineering. It was my first exposure to materials science, and I have remained immensely intrigued in the field since taking the class.
What are some things that have surprised you—maybe a challenge you didn't expect or an aspect of the Army's engineering and testing mission that you found uniquely interesting?
Prior to starting my internship at the Redstone Test Center (RTC) at Redstone Arsenal in Madison County, Alabama, I was unaware of all the different types of testing that can be done. I was pleasantly surprised to learn more about the capabilities that can be used to simulate the conditions that a system or component may go through in the field.
Can you describe a specific project or task you've worked on at ATEC that you're particularly proud of? What was your role, and what did you learn from it about real-world engineering or test and evaluation?
Last summer, I was the test engineer in the Product Lot Testing program. As this was the first program I was responsible for, it was more challenging to get started. Fortunately, everything went smoothly due to the great support I received from my coworkers. Their support was instrumental in helping me to quickly learn all the coordination that is required to make sure all tests are done well and within the deadline.
How has your academic training prepared you for your work at ATEC, and conversely, how has your hands-on ATEC experience informed your approach to your studies?
My training at Auburn University increased my ability to quickly understand all the equipment and tests that are run on different materials at RTC. Although I had practical experience in operating the equipment, I didn’t have the necessary experience relative to the actual work that is done. After the completion of both of my internships at RTC, I came back to Auburn with a more thorough knowledge of how to apply the things I had learned in the classroom and laboratory.
Looking ahead to your post-graduation career with ATEC, what are you most excited about? Is there a specific technology, problem set, or mission area you're eager to contribute to?
I’m excited to work with all the engineers and technicians at RTC. We have a great team dynamic, and everyone is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. I am looking forward to testing the flight safety components of the Army's rotorcraft, as well as investigating the material failures to determine the root causes.
If you could give one piece of advice to a student considering the SMART Scholarship or a career in test and evaluation, what would it be?
My advice for students applying for the SMART Scholarship would be to get involved in the undergraduate research programs offered at their universities. This research will give them the necessary tools they need to navigate their day-to-day duties. Additionally, it will make them a more viable candidate for potential Department of War organizations.
To learn more about the SMART Scholarship program, including how to apply, visit https://www.smartscholarship.org.
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