April 23, 2024
Double majoring at Shawnee State University, junior Angel Hammond has always had a curiosity and passion for technology and innovation. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Plastics Engineering Technology and an associate’s degree in Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing Technology.
“I always knew that I was interested in the engineering field and had a high school teacher who suggested the program to me,” she said. “Shawnee is the only college I applied to and I really love the program because it’s so hands-on for an area that is much more technical-based than others. I learn better and quicker by doing things myself and it’s great that the program provides that for us.”
As a first-generation student, Hammond is making her way through both programs with a strong focus on plastics, drawn to its multipurpose applications and the potential it holds for a wide range of opportunities for creating and designing. She is grateful that the lab work in both of her programs allows her to learn hands-on. From experimenting with prototypes to harnessing the power of 3D printers, Hammond loves every opportunity to apply her skills and bring her ideas to life.
“A lot of the equipment we use in class are the injection molders to make plastic and create parts in a short amount of time,” she said. “I also get to work a lot in the extrusion classes to help make plastic sheeting or items like garbage bags for example. Everything from design and CAD to plastics go hand in hand.”
Within her programs, she has also enjoyed having smaller class sizes so that she can connect with her faculty members who she says have supported and guided her through every step of her education.
“All the professors are great,” she said. “The class sizes are smaller so you get to talk to the professors casually and more one-on-one with them. They’re all easy to work with.”
Hammond has been able to share her passion for technology and engineering beyond the classroom. Every year, she volunteers as part of Plastics Day – an on-campus event that educates high school students and their families about the many pathways a career in plastics can hold.
“We highlight 3D printing, software, programs, scanners, injection molders, and extruders,” she said. “We’ve given away coasters, back scratchers, and flying discs we’ve made in class. We've made these items by cutting and engraving the mold to make the part. It's rewarding because you can see it all come together.”
In addition to her in-class activities, Hammond also finds joy in the digital side, using software to design and create intricate pieces for her coursework. This combination of hands-on craftsmanship and digital work drives her creativity and helps to expand her skill set, preparing her for the multilayered challenges of the industry.
“I’ve enjoyed designing my projects; from the start that’s one of my favorite parts,” she said. “It’s challenging but in a good way. I get to be creative and create my own things and I really enjoy that. We do a lot with 3D printing, and it is very interesting if you want to make a prototype for a class. The software can look intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it it’s really easy to work with.”
Looking ahead, Hammond is considering the possibility of graduate school, excited to dive deeper into her field of study and contribute to its ongoing development. With her firm dedication to the area of study, Hammond is hoping to encourage incoming students to consider pursuing a degree in engineering technologies at SSU.
“I would like to stay in the area and hopefully I can go to graduate school in the future,” she said. “It’s been great being close to home and if someone is unsure where to start but wants to be hands-on and learn by experience then this is a great program to consider all-around.”
To learn more about the programs within the Department of Engineering Technologies at Shawnee State University, visit shawnee.edu/engineering-technologies.