About Mike
I completed my doctoral degree in civil engineering with a focus in construction engineering and management at Auburn University in 2016. My research interests are in providing practical solutions to improve current erosion and sediment control practices used in the construction industry. I graduated with my B.S. in civil engineering with majors in both civil and environmental engineering from Florida State University in May 2012. My M.S. was earned in December 2014 from Auburn University. During my graduate and undergraduate studies, I have gained a great deal of knowledge in the classroom, research experience in the laboratory, leadership through student and professional organizations, and industry exposure through internships.
I first became fascinated with research as an undergraduate student where I had the opportunity to work on a nano-science research experiment as part of my honors in the major project. The experience I gained as an undergraduate researcher, encouraged me to engage in graduate studies
where I could further pursue research opportunities in my field of study. During my studies at Auburn University, I had the opportunity to conduct large-scale research in the erosion and sediment control field. These research opportunities have allowed me to apply my educational background in Civil and Environmental Engineering to help develop practical solutions for solving common issues on construction sites across the country.
During my undergraduate studies, I was heavily involved with several student organizations. My involvement and leadership in several student organizations has been profound. I was challenged to help lead our American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) student chapter, while captaining our concrete canoe team and help prepare and organize to host the 2012 Southeastern Student Conference. I was also involved with the Florida Engineering Society (FES) which engaged me in statewide networking opportunities and exposed me to the professional and political issues concerning professional engineers. I served as a graduate student advisor to the Auburn University ASCE student chapter where I helped motivate and mentor students in their chapter organization, competitions, and projects. Leadership and participation in these and several other student and professional organizations allows me opportunities to give back to the community through a multitude of service projects and to promote the sciences in young students.
My professional experience includes an undergraduate internship experience with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection where I was able to work with a coastal engineering project manager to help design and manage coastal construction projects throughout the Florida State Park system. My ultimate goal is to become a professional engineer with the ability to share my gained knowledge through education and research to promote breakthroughs and advancements in the construction engineering field.