Rose-Hulman students are committed to a sustainable future. This summer, several students demonstrated their dedication to sustainability through internship programs. From working at companies such as Peterbilt Motors Company and researching at notable universities, these Rose students are using their knowledge and skills to save the world.
Grace Booher, a sophomore from Menomonee Fall, Wisconsin, is majoring in biomedical engineering. This summer, Booher participated in a Research Experience for Undergraduates at Auburn University Biosystems Engineering. She focused on anaerobic digestion of poultry plant waste.
“I loved that I had the opportunity to run my own research project from start to finish,” said Booher. “Rose-Hulman is giving me many opportunities and connections to help me determine what I want to do for my long-term career.”
At Rose, Booher is involved with Delta Delta Delta, Dance Company and the Society of Women Engineers. She also plays softball and is a Noblitt Scholar.
Cassie Domke, a junior from Cincinnati, Ohio, is a mechanical engineering major. She spent the summer working on a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at University of Cincinnati. Her REU involved working on fluid flow and heat transfer experiments. For example, one experiment tried to detect when steam condenses down into water using an acoustic sensor, and another experiment involved trying to 3D-print a type of wick structure from titanium to be used in radiators on spacecraft. Domke loves that she’s been able to work with so many imaging devices, including multiple high-speed cameras and an infrared (thermal vision) camera.
“My dream goal is to work on aerospace propulsion projects,” said Domke. “Through Rose Rocketry, I've been able to build experience in that field doing what I love. The excellent coursework Rose’s professors have taught the necessary knowledge and inspired me to pursue my passions in engineering.”
At Rose, Domke is heavily involved in Rose Rocketry. She is the safety officer of the Rose Propulsion Lab group, a club that is developing a liquid rocket engine for the Collegiate Propulsive Lander Challenge.
Jack Martin, a senior from Arthur, Illinois, is majoring in mechanical engineering and pursuing a concurrent master’s degree in engineering management. This summer, Martin worked as a design engineer intern on the Autonomous Vehicle Platform team of Peterbilt Motors Company. His internship was dedicated to developing a fully driverless long-haul semi-truck and his primary responsibility involved investigating the feasibility of implementing radars for a backup compute system on the side chassis fairings. The project required designing an assembly that meets radar specifications, adheres to spatial constraints of the truck, and ensures structural integrity. He also had the opportunity to help orchestrate multiple prototype build workshops, acting as a liaison between the design team and the manufacturing representatives who will eventually adopt them on their lines.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my internship because it provided me with the opportunity to network with other interns not only at the Peterbilt Headquarters where I work, but also across the entire PACCAR organization,” said Martin. “One of the aspects I cherish most is the culture of my team. The emphasis on energized collaboration is something I hope to incorporate into my future endeavors on campus. Although each team member may own the design of specific components or systems, we frequently hold collaborative design meetings. These sessions allow us to share valuable suggestions and ensure everyone remains informed about individual contributions to the program.”
At Rose, Martin is the project manager of the Battery Workforce Challenge, secretary of the Student Government Association and vice president of Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity. He also played on the football team during his first year.