Mechanical engineering alumni win at Homecoming 2024
2019 mechanical engineering graduate Sierra Rose
Shortly after the University of Arizona welcomed its new president, AME Distinguished Professor Suresh Garimella, the College of Engineering celebrated its 2024 Homecoming breakfast. Garimella spoke at the annual event about his brief time at the university.
“Everything I’ve seen at the university – our amazing research labs and educational experiences that we offer – makes me even more sure that the future is bright, and nowhere is it brighter than here in the College of Engineering,” Garimella said.
AME was well represented during the event's awards ceremony as well, thanks to mechanical engineering alums.
Sierra Rose, who graduated in 2019, won the award for Outstanding Young Alumni Volunteer. Rose works at Northrop Grumman Space Systems as a design, integration and test engineer for the intercontinental ballistic missile program. She has advised students in the Interdisciplinary Capstone program since beginning at Northrop Grumman¸ the industry sponsor for her own senior capstone project.
Throughout the school year, she guides students through the design process and strives to develop their confidence as engineers.
“I’m so grateful for a job that allows me to give back to the university and continue to be a resource to young engineers,” she said.
Nitin Patel, who graduated in 2002, won the Bear Down Award. Patel joined Caterpillar Inc. after earning an MS at the Georgia Institute of Technology and is now an engineering manager. Through his 20-year career, he has contributed significant time and expertise in service to the university, the college and students. Patel has mentored seven capstone design projects and been Caterpillar’s campus coordinator for 10 years.
He recruits Wildcat engineers and works with students through efforts such as Summer TRACK and Summer Engineering Academy. He is also a member of the College of Engineering Dean’s Advisory Board.
“I’ve had a lot of interactions with students over the years…. Each year I see the caliber of students raising,” said Patel.