Engineering
Colby Cinqmars '26
Why did you decide to study engineering?
I have always been curious about the world around me and how it works. From everyday experiences like using a computer to small observations such as noticing why a car window fogs up on a cold morning, I am drawn to understanding the underlying principles behind them. These moments of curiosity often trace back to engineering and the fundamental physics that govern how such systems behave. In this way, I chose to study engineering because I have never been satisfied with simply accepting that something works. I want to understand why it works. Engineering and physics provide the tools to explore those questions and uncover the concepts that shape the world around us.
What classes have been your favorite so far?
Although it is difficult to choose favorites, the classes I have enjoyed most have been Fluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer, Electricity & Magnetism, and Computational Methods. Together, these courses helped me "connect the dots" and marked a point in my education where I began to see how everything I had learned fits together. While these subjects are often taught separately, I have come to realize that engineering and physics are not truly divided in this way. Solving real problems requires interdisciplinary thinking and an ability to draw connections across different areas. I appreciate that the engineering program emphasizes this approach, encouraging students to think holistically rather than within the boundaries of a single course.
Tell us about a unique experience you've had or project you've worked on for your major.
A unique experience I have had was a summer research internship with Professor Kamesh Sankaran. Along with a fellow student, I computationally investigated the behavior and operation of inductive pulsed plasma thrusters, an alternative propulsion system suited for the growing demands of space exploration, including missions to Mars and beyond. As part of this work, I had the opportunity to attend two conferences, including the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and contribute to a published paper. This experience was truly life-changing. Not only was my advisor incredibly supportive, but the STEM summer research environment at Whitworth is something I would strongly encourage any interested student to pursue.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in engineering?
One of the joys of attending a small school like Whitworth is the opportunity to build close relationships with classmates and professors. For anyone considering a major in engineering or physics, I would encourage you to take full advantage of that environment. Do not be afraid to reach out, talk with your peers and attend office hours. It can be surprising how much you learn simply through conversations with others. Those interactions not only deepen your understanding of the material but also help you develop relationships that might last a lifetime.
What's your dream job?
At this point in my life, my dream job is to work as a research scientist at a national laboratory or university. I want to build a career where I am continuously learning and challenging myself, and I believe a role in research would provide that opportunity. Ultimately, I hope to build a career that not only advances my own understanding but also contributes to the broader scientific community and to technologies that impact the world.
Who are three people who have made a difference for you at Whitworth?
Whitworth is made up of so many incredible people, which makes it difficult to choose just three. However, one professor who has had a significant impact on my experience is Kamesh Sankaran in the engineering department. I have taken several of his classes, and he also served as my summer research advisor. Beyond academics, he has consistently supported me by writing letters of recommendation and taking the time to check in on me personally. His investment in his students, both academically and personally, is something I am deeply grateful for. I also owe a great deal of appreciation to Professor Markus Ong in the engineering department. As my academic advisor, he has been an incredible source of support throughout my time at Whitworth. Whether answering my often-naive questions during office hours or taking the time to talk about life and future opportunities, his guidance has had a lasting impact on my college experience. Finally, while not a single individual, my teammates on the Whitworth men's tennis team have played an important role in shaping my time here. These are people I have spent nearly every day with. Being a student-athlete has challenged me and helped me grow, and I am incredibly grateful for the relationships and experiences I have had with this group.
Zora Anetor-Ebhabha '26
Why did you decide to study engineering?
I honestly chose engineering on a whim. I always wanted to study medicine, but I changed it to engineering the night before I sent most of my college applications in (my advice: don't just change your whole career path on a random Wednesday night over dinner). Nevertheless, engineering provides a direct pathway to understanding the world around us and how things work at a fundamental level. It challenges me to think critically and apply mathematical and scientific principles to real-world problems that futuristically help people and the environment.
What classes have been your favorite so far?
I've loved most of my classes in engineering, and I especially enjoy a lot of the mechanical-focused classes like Fluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer and Engineering Thermodynamics, but overall, my favorite so far would have to be Statics. This class was my introduction to the application of physics and mathematics to the world around me, which greatly impacted how I now see almost everything. I saw what we learned about balanced forces, trusses, moments, etc. everywhere, and it was so interesting to see how engineering is the backbone of our lives and how we instinctually implement it daily without realizing it. I enjoyed all the complex problems the class brought and how much work extended outside the classroom. It was amazing.
Tell us about a unique experience you've had or project you've worked on for your major.
I've been working on a research project for some months now that focuses on computationally modeling the early developmental stages of C. elegans cell growth and division, and it has been a highly empowering and noteworthy experience in my academic and career journey. I delved into the computational modeling of biological systems for the first time, and it was as rewarding as it was challenging. Never having taken any biology classes in college, I had to read up on a lot of research papers and generally verse myself with technical lingo to effectively communicate with the experimentalists. This project reinforced my skills in data and numerical analysis, and seeing computational tools mirror real-life biological processes, with potential implications for cancer research, was incredibly exciting. So far, I would say the outcomes have been wonderful, and even better, I got to present my findings in an oral presentation at the Murdock Research Conference 2024, which was highly empowering for a young researcher like myself.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in engineering?
I would tell them to boldly step in without fear or a preconceived preparation for failure. Engineering is notorious for being a difficult major, which is true, but that is only a part of the whole story. Difficult doesn't mean impossible. This major doesn't just give you a wealth of knowledge of the world around you but gives you something even better – a mind and heart for problem-solving and critical thinking that is applicable in any field or discipline. Be open to constantly learning and applying knowledge beyond the textbook as engineering requires creativity, perseverance and discipline. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions and seek mentorship because collaboration is key to success in this field. Take this from someone who wanted to switch majors in her first semester.
What's your dream job?
Technically, I would love to work in mechanical and materials engineering or biomedical engineering, using my skills to develop innovative solutions for global challenges that open the door to futuristic inventions while impacting the lives and communities around me. But on a deeper level, I have always wanted to work with young women and girls, empowering them to excel and succeed in whatever field of life they believe they are called to. That is one of the major reasons I chose engineering so a young girl or woman out there could say "If she did it, I can do it too." This vision led me to create The Dear Daughter of Mine Collective (DDOM Collective), a Christ-centered nonprofit dedicated to empowering young women spiritually, academically, financially, mentally and technologically, nurturing them toward their unique God-given purpose. Thus, while I hope to contribute to the next generation of technology and innovation, I want to create pathways beyond my timeline for young women and girls to do the same.
Who are three people who have made a difference for you at Whitworth?
- Agnila Deb, my best friend here at Whitworth and a highly intelligent and diligent young woman. As a fellow engineering student, she has shown me the true value of having a strong support system in both life and career. Having her beside me, I've felt more confident asking questions in class, contributing boldly in group discussions, and even embracing setbacks, knowing I had someone who believed in me. Her encouragement has pushed me to grow academically and personally, reminding me that success is not just about individual effort but also about the community we build along the way, and I'm immensely grateful for the community I found in this one person.
- Dr. Jonathan Dawson, my research coordinator and biophysics project supervisor, has been an invaluable mentor throughout my academic journey. His support has gone beyond just overseeing my work – he has taken a genuine interest in my growth, both as a researcher and as an individual. His mentorship has not only strengthened my technical and analytical skills but also instilled a deeper confidence in my ability to contribute effectively to the world around me.
- Not just one person, but my women's life group has been a profound source of inspiration and growth. These incredible young women, passionately seeking the heart of Christ, have accelerated my spiritual and personal development in ways I never could have achieved alone. It is empowering to be surrounded by women who actively pursue Jesus, hold me accountable, and walk alongside me through life's highs and lows – cheering for my wins, wiping my tears, and simply sitting and praying with me when I fall. Their unwavering support and faith have been a blessing, and I am deeply grateful for each of them.
Grant McDonald '24
Why did you decide to study engineering?
I decided to study engineering because I have a passion for mathematics, technology and innovation.
What classes have been your favorite so far?
Embedded Systems and Principles of Engineering Design. In both classes, I was able to work in teams to design and build systems or machines. I found it very fulfilling to put a lot of work into a project and be able to see a finished product that functioned the way my team designed it to.
Tell us about a unique experience or project you've worked on for your major.
I have been a part of the Whitworth CubeSat project for about three years. This is a student-led, faculty-advised satellite design project at Whitworth. I have been the microcontroller team leader since fall of 2022. Not only has it given me the experience of working on an aerospace project, but it has also provided me with a great opportunity to develop my professional and leadership skills as a team leader.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in engineering?
If you love solving hard problems, engineering is right for you. There is a huge variety of problems to be solved and so many fulfilling career paths within this discipline. You must love the grind though. A degree in engineering is not for the faint of heart. P.S. I was told this before I started my degree and did not believe it – I was mistaken.
What's your dream job?
My dream job is to work for a company that creates technologies that make the world a better place. I want to make a positive impact on the world through my work, so I would love to be in a position that allows me to do that.
Who has made a difference for you at Whitworth?
My advisor, Dr. Kamesh Sankaran, has been a huge influence in my time at Whitworth from helping me decide what internships I should do, to providing me with wisdom on balancing my school, work and home life. Dr. Philip Measor, my professor for multiple semesters, has had a large influence on my passion for electrical engineering and has given me many tips about the engineering industry that will help me throughout my professional career. Finally, my closest classmates Micah Heil, Dylan Owen and Dominic Gusman have helped keep my spirits up through the hard times and provided a great support system for when I needed help. I also want to give a shoutout to the rest of my professors and classmates that have supported me and helped me succeed throughout my time at Whitworth.
Ryan Grady '22
Why did you decide to study engineering?
I've always been up for a challenge, and the difficulty of the degree is something that I was excited to tackle. I have a deep passion for designing, building and understanding how things work. I chose to study engineering because I love solving complex problems, learning exciting new skills, and growing the friendships my peers and I have made as we work on projects together.
What are some of your favorite classes so far?
My favorite class at Whitworth has been Fluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer. I've spent my life doing sports in and on the water. It was exciting to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of fluids, and apply that knowledge to my sports.
Tell us about a unique experience you've had or project you've worked on for your major.
Working on Whitworth's capstone design project has been an amazing new experience. My peers and I have had to learn a completely new engineering system and design improvements for it that meet actual industry standards. A unique part of this experience is that our group is doing a lot of different types of engineering all at once. We are simultaneously developing electrical, mechanical and software systems for this project. I have really enjoyed growing my skills and working with my peers on this project.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in engineering?
My advice would be to invest in faculty relationships early on and to always ask for help if you are stuck. Some of the best moments in my education have come from conversations with professors. They are so invested in the students here and really want us all to learn and grow. Classes here are tough, and asking your classmates for help or working on homework together is a very rewarding experience. Some of my closest friends at Whitworth have come from studying for classes together.
What's your dream job?
My dream job would be to work as a systems engineer. As a systems engineer, you have to take a lot of different parts of a project and integrate them together. You also need to communicate your ideas and solutions effectively so that the system ends up working well as a finished product. The education here at Whitworth provides an in-depth understanding of many different elements of engineering and how they fit together. Whitworth also cultivates a culture of good communication through strong writing and oral presentations, something I have appreciated as I work on job applications and interviews.
Who has been an important connection for you at Whitworth, and why?
Dr. Measor has been an amazing professor and mentor. He has always encouraged me to look at the bigger picture and challenged me to think creatively about problems and come up with unique solutions to them. He has also pushed me to develop my faith in engineering and pursue career development opportunities.