Why did you choose Oregon Tech?
I chose Oregon Tech because of its highly reputable engineering program and its flourishing athletic programs. Coaches Jack Kegg and Laura Schwartz recruited me here to compete in Cross Country and Track and Field and gave me the confidence to succeed both in competition and in the classroom. Oregon Tech is a constantly changing, thriving environment, and has seen great improvements to its facilities in recent years!
What do you like best about your major?
The best part of mechanical engineering is its fluidity in both structure and curriculum. The main coursework gives you the building blocks to be successful, and the electives grant you the opportunity to learn about specific things you’re more passionate about. On top of that, I’ve had great faculty who have pushed me to be a better student and person every day.
What is your favorite memory from Oregon Tech?
After being put out of competition for over a year due to a total bone fracture in my foot, I came back post-surgery and was able to put together my third consecutive All-American title in Cross Country, finishing 23rd at the national championship. It was the ultimate culmination of the hard work I put in, the mental fight I went through, and the amazing support from all of those around me.
What career do you hope to have after you graduate from Oregon Tech?
After I graduate, I hope to combine my passion for both engineering and athletics to create footwear solutions that change the world. I want to design the next generation of running shoes that better prevent injuries and spring athletes forward to greater heights!
What clubs or activities are you involved with? What are some highlights of your involvement?
I have been a member of the Cross Country and Track and Field teams here for five years. As a collegiate athlete at Oregon Tech, I have gained the tools and practice necessary to be successful both as an athlete and as a student. Here are some accolades I have been proud to earn over the course of my time here:
- 4-time NAIA Cross Country All-American
- 2017 NAIA Scholar Athlete of the Year
- 2017 National Runner of the Week
- First male athlete in Oregon Tech history to receive 4 All-American distinctions in a single sport
- 6-time Cascade Collegiate Conference Runner of the Week
- 4-time Academic All-American
- Led Oregon Tech to 11th place team finishes at Cross Country Nationals 2017 & 2020
- 2018 Cascade Collegiate Conference 10,000m Champion
- 4-time Cross Country All-Conference Selection
- #1 all-time, 10,000m and #2 all-time, 8,000m at Oregon Tech
- Ran an NAIA-leading time of 14:25 in the 5,000m, #1 all-time at Oregon Tech
What would you say to the donor or donors who support Oregon Tech? What does their support mean to you?
The support of our donors means so much and allows us to further not just our athletic careers but also our hard work in the classroom. Knowing we have such a strong fanbase gives athletes at Oregon Tech like myself the confidence to succeed and shatter barriers. We are so excited to be undergoing much needed track and field renovations that will not only spring our current athletes forward but additionally bring in new athletes with greater potential.