One year ago, the CAMAL Advanced Manufacturing Fellow Program began with high hopes. Today, the results speak for themselves.
This program brings together the Center for Additive Manufacturing and Logistics (CAMAL) and the Master of Engineering Management (MEM) Program. It gives students hands-on learning, real research experience and career-building skills.
At the start, interim MEM director Brandon McConnell shared his vision. “It made no sense to me for MEM to just be neighbors,” he said. He believed students should work directly with advanced manufacturing tools and experts. “For the right MEM students, CAMAL provides training, skills, experience and industry connections,” he explained.
Molly Li and Evan Raynor became the first two Fellows in the program. Over time, they both grew as engineers.
Molly Li’s Journey From Classroom to Lab
From the beginning, Li wanted more than classroom knowledge. “My experience as a CAMAL Fellow has been incredibly rewarding,” she said. She took classroom lessons and turned them into real-world results. She worked on projects from start to finish. “I was fortunate to be involved in an entire research cycle,” she explained.
She designed parts, set machine settings and analyzed results. She also helped publish a research paper. Before the program started, she had a clear goal. “The prospect of working hands-on with these machines… really excited me,” she said.
She felt challenged and supported. “It is inspiring how everyone brings their unique expertise while being open and supportive,” she shared. Because of this, she felt CAMAL helped her grow in many ways.“The culture at CAMAL is a culture of collaboration,” she added.
Evan Raynor’s Road to Engineering Confidence
Raynor also saw big results from his time at CAMAL. “My time as a CAMAL Fellow was indeed short in length, but was also nothing short of incredible,” he said. He discovered a strong connection to manufacturing. “Being a Fellow verified my interest in manufacturing,” he explained.
He quickly picked up skills with lasers, 3D printers and other machines. He began applying these skills in his career. “Being a CAMAL Fellow gave me a competitive edge,” he said.
Even before joining, he looked forward to learning more. “Ever since I began my graduate school career, I have longed for knowledge,” he said. Now, he encourages others to stay curious. “Being a CAMAL Fellow gives you the freedom to explore,” he added.
Faculty View: Success in Action
Chris Rock, CAMAL’s outreach manager, guided both students. He watched them grow quickly. “Molly and Evan have been amazingly effective students,” he said. He also gave advice to future Fellows. “Don’t be afraid of big tech and machines,” he shared.
McConnell also highlighted the program’s success. “Our students get jobs,” he joked. This program helps students gain real experience and build strong industry connections.
Looking Ahead With Confidence
Today, the program’s first year shows great promise. Students gained confidence, career direction and technical knowledge.Molly reflected on her growth. “I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to work in CAMAL,” she said. She praised the lab and its people. “It’s made possible by a department that truly values innovation,” she added. Evan strongly agreed. “Take a chance and become a Fellow,” he encouraged. “This is truly a unique experience… Go Pack!”
As the program moves forward, one thing is clear. MEM and CAMAL is helping shape the future of engineering, one Fellow at a time.