Josh Gess is in a sweet spot for creating novel solutions for the thermal management of computer technology.
“Right now, we’re strategically positioned to turn and burn on three- to six-month industry projects at scale,” said Gess, associate professor of mechanical engineering at Oregon State University.
The well-being of others is central to Lara Rupnawar’s motivations as a mechanical engineering student, undergraduate researcher, and Catalyst Scholar and Mentor in the College of Engineering.
As a research intern working with Naomi Fitter, associate professor of robotics and Kearney Faculty Scholar, Rupnawar participates in robotics studies focusing on improving the medical experience of children and veterans with disabilities. She connected with Fitter through Oregon State’s URSA Engage program.
Jesse Rodríguez had already mapped out his future while in high school: After earning an engineering degree, he would join his father’s construction company in Salem, Oregon.
For anyone working in the semiconductor industry in Oregon, it is no surprise that a recent report estimated a need for a 24% increase in semiconductor-related credentials. Meeting those needs is a focus for the State of Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission, which requested the assessment. It is part of the State’s broader efforts to reinvigorate the semiconductor industry supported by the federal CHIPS and Science Act and Oregon’s CHIPS Act.
Wyatt Weaver started down several academic paths before he found the one that took him where he needed to go.
“I explored architecture, energy systems engineering, and civil engineering before ultimately deciding on mechanical engineering,” said Weaver. “It was a roundabout journey, and I’m surprised I didn't discover my true passion sooner.”
In August, with the congratulatory cheers of June’s Commencement celebrations still ringing in their ears, a group of five 2024 College of Engineering graduates took their senior capstone project on an epic, two-week road trip.
In 2020, Kendra Sharp helped organize an international development design summit in Thailand. That’s where she met Bryan Hugill, who owns an organic rice farm in the northeastern part of the country.
Richard Wirz sometimes jokes that the word “aerospace” makes no sense.
“Aero means air, and space means the absence of air,” said Wirz, executive director for aerospace research programs and Boeing Professor of Mechanical Engineering Design at Oregon State University’s College of Engineering. “It’s like I study air and no air. Why are they even in the same category?”
