"I'd advise students to pursue what you're interested in, whether it's joining a club or taking a graduate-level class in something you find fascinating."
As a mechanical engineering graduate from Brigham Young University, Landon Andrews has found success in the energy industry, working as a design engineer for SLB, an energy service company that works primarily with oil and gas. However, his path to this role was not entirely linear, as he shares insights that can benefit current students navigating the rigors of the mechanical engineering program.
Landon recalls his early interests, which initially leaned towards architecture due to his creative inclinations. "I liked the idea of architecture because I enjoyed the creative side of things," he explains. "But then people told me it was really heavy in math, so I kind of pushed that away." Instead, he considered chemical engineering before ultimately settling on mechanical engineering, drawn to the field's focus on science and technology.
This openness to exploring different options paid off, as Landon discovered a passion for material science during a sophomore-level course. "It just kind of clicked with me," he says. "I thoroughly enjoyed it, and you do these fun labs where you're putting stuff in machines and breaking it. That always interested me." This experience laid the groundwork for his current role, where he designs oil well equipment for offshore projects around the world.
While Landon's academic journey was rewarding, he acknowledges the challenges of balancing the demands of engineering coursework with personal interests and responsibilities. "It's so easy to get stuck, especially in engineering, where you're just trying to get through tests," he says. "I'd advise students to pursue what you're interested in, whether it's joining a club or taking a graduate-level class in something you find fascinating."
This sentiment of prioritizing passion aligns with Landon's own experiences, as he fondly remembers his time spent mountain biking and trail running in the Provo canyons, activities that provided a welcome respite from the rigors of the program.
As Landon has progressed in his career, he has also learned the importance of adaptability and soft skills. "Everyone can use CAD and do the technical stuff," he explains. "What sets you apart is your ability to communicate and learn. You have to make the structure yourself in industry, rather than having it all laid out like in school."
With two young children at home, Landon has also had to navigate the delicate balance of work and family life. "You have to make compromises," he advises. "You can't do everything 100% perfectly. It's about setting your priorities and being willing to adjust them as needed."
Landon's journey serves as a testament to the value of pursuing one's passions, while also maintaining a pragmatic approach to the demands of the mechanical engineering field. His insights offer a valuable perspective for current and future BYU students as they navigate their own paths towards success.