222 Palisades Creek Drive
Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: 972-952-9393
Fax: 972-952-9435
Email: [email protected]
New Mexico State University
Mechanical Engineering
Alex Pantea
What are your career goals?
My career goal is to become a research engineer in the aerospace and defense industry, where I can apply mechanical engineering principles to develop innovative technologies. I am particularly interested in advanced materials, additive manufacturing, vibrational analysis, and thermal systems. In the long term, I hope to contribute to the development of aircraft, spacecraft, and other advanced engineering systems while continuing to grow as a researcher and engineer.
Do you have any research areas of interest specific to your discipline?
Yes. My primary research interests include advanced materials, additive manufacturing, vibrational analysis, materials processing, and thermal systems. I am particularly interested in understanding how manufacturing
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processes and material properties influence the performance, durability, and reliability of mechanical systems. I am also interested in applying vibrational analysis to identify and solve mechanical system problems, particularly in aerospace and other high-performance applications.
What is one piece of advice you have for fellow engineering students?
Do not be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. Engineering is a field where some of the most valuable learning comes from working through problems that initially seem difficult. Take advantage of professors, classmates, laboratories, research opportunities, internships, and student organizations. Most importantly, try to apply what you learn in the classroom to hands-on projects, because those experiences can help connect theoretical concepts to real engineering problems
What has been your favorite engineering course and why?
My favorite engineering course has been Mechanical Design because it allowed me to bring together nearly every aspect of my engineering education up to that point. We designed and built a robot, which required us to apply concepts from mechanics, materials, manufacturing, controls, electronics, CAD, and engineering analysis. Being able to take what I had learned in previous courses and apply it to a complete, functioning system made the course especially rewarding. It also showed me how different areas of mechanical engineering work together to solve real-world problems.
Which clubs, campus organizations, and activities do you participate in?
I am a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). I am also the Team Lead for IAM3D, a position I have held for the second consecutive year. Through IAM3D, I have gained additional experience in engineering design, additive manufacturing, teamwork, leadership, and hands-on problem solving.
What are you most looking forward to gaining from being an FE ambassador?
As an FE Ambassador, I am most looking forward to developing my leadership and communication skills while helping other engineering students understand the importance of the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and the path toward professional engineering licensure. I also look forward to connecting with other engineering students, sharing my experiences, and helping students feel more prepared and confident as they take the next step in their engineering careers.