Career Goal Narrative

Hello! My name is Aleea Best, and I am a rising sophomore studying mechanical and aerospace engineering at West Virginia University. My interest in engineering began in elementary school when I met my step-dad, a former engineer and current contractor for a defense and space company. From him, I learned how engineers contribute to the safety, innovation, and advancement of society, and I knew early on that I wanted to follow a similar path.

In high school, I developed a deep love for math and science, which inspired me to apply to James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center’s Engineering Program—a two-year technical program that became one of the most formative experiences in my academic journey. Through this program, I earned certifications in SolidWorks, Autodesk, and additive manufacturing and gained hands-on experience with a range of engineering tools and technologies. I learned programming with Python and Arduino IDE, and explored electronics through drone projects and Arduino-based systems. I also learned how to operate advanced machinery, including 3D printers, CNC machines, plasma cutters, and woodworking tools like the bandsaw. One of my favorite aspects of the program was learning to build and troubleshoot 3D printers, which sparked an ongoing interest in additive manufacturing where I hope to continue more research on through my university.

After receiving a Certificate of Excellence from the engineering program, I began my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and soon transitioned into a dual degree program in both mechanical (BSME) and aerospace (BSAE) engineering. Thanks to my high school’s opportunities and transfer credits, I entered college with a strong foundation, which allowed me to go straight into my engineering core classes. During my first year, I completed my general education and STEM requirements and began taking engineering courses such as statics, dynamics, and mechanics. I also expanded my technical skill set by learning MATLAB and applying it in class projects. I’ve found that I especially enjoy applying the core math and physics behind engineering-based problems to real-world situations, which has made me particularly interested in roles such as flight test engineering or systems analysis.

To me, the time spent outside the classroom is just as important as the latter, and I love to be involved on campus! I love volunteering and promoting STEM through outreach, which led me to volunteer at events like Decide WVU and Statler Visitation days to share my experiences and encourage others to come to my university. I’m also passionate about encouraging young girls to pursue STEM careers, which led me to join WVU’s chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), where I volunteer at outreach events that introduce middle and elementary school girls to engineering. I am also very involved in this organization and participate in professional development workshops, social events, and have had the opportunity to capture our chapter’s activities as Historian. For the upcoming year, I’ll serve as Fundraising Chair, supporting SWE’s growth and impact on campus.

I also work at the university’s Calculus Learning Center as a tutor, helping students build confidence and skill in complex calculus-based courses through collaborative and individualized problem-solving. I love to help others, and being able to use my skills in math and science as a tutor helps me pursue this passion. Outside of academics and work, music is a big part of my life. In high school, I was a member of the marching band, and immediately going into college, I knew I wanted to continue this activity. I am currently a member of the Pride of West Virginia Marching Mountaineers, where I get to promote school spirit at games and tailgates, but also got to perform on the streets of New York City in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade!

During the summer of 2025, I interned at The MIL Corporation as a mechanical engineering intern. I applied my knowledge of CAD and Autodesk Inventor to interpret engineering drawings and design a shipping method for a storage container that optimized space while maintaining driver safety through careful placement of the center of gravity. I also operated and maintained the 3D printer, calibrating the system when hardware issues arose. Through this experience, I gained a deeper understanding of manufacturing workflows, design for safety, structural planning, and troubleshooting, and I hope to be able to use these skills for future internships, projects, or my career.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to further explore research opportunities, particularly in additive manufacturing. One of the initiatives I’m currently pursuing is my university’s Microgravity Research Team, which studies 3D printing in zero-gravity conditions as part of a NASA-supported program. Opportunities like this align perfectly with my interests and long-term goal of working in the aerospace industry. While I am still exploring specific career paths, I’m especially drawn to roles that blend hands-on technical work with analytical thinking and engineering systems analysis.

Above all, I want to use my engineering education and experiences to solve real-world problems, contribute to innovation in aerospace, and inspire the next generation to pursue careers in STEM. My journey is just beginning, and I’m excited for all the opportunities still to come.