November Student Spotlight

Year in Program: 2^nd Year PhD Student

Advisor: Dr. Mohammad Modarres

Research interests: Large Language Models, Prognostics and Health Management, Probabilistic Risk Assessment

What drew you to engineering?

I’ve always been fascinated by how complex systems work and how different components come together to solve problems. From a young age, I was curious about machines, technology, and the logic behind how they function. Engineering seemed like the perfect field to explore these interests, combining creativity with practical problem-solving. The idea of using scientific principles to design and innovate has always inspired me to pursue a career in this dynamic field.

What made you choose UMD and the ENRE Reliability Program?

I chose UMD and the ENRE Reliability Program because of its multidisciplinary approach, which allows me to explore various fields while focusing on reliability engineering. As an undergraduate in Computer Engineering at UMD, I realized I wanted something more diverse and applicable across different industries. The ENRE program’s focus on ensuring safety and efficiency in a range of fields really appealed to me, as it combines technical skills with practical applications. UMD’s strong connections to industry leaders also provide valuable opportunities to apply these skills in real-world scenarios, making it a perfect fit for my career goals.

What do you want people to know about Reliability Engineering that they may not be aware of?

Reliability engineering is about more than preventing failures—it's focused on designing systems that are resilient, safe, and efficient over time. In industries like aerospace, nuclear energy, and hydrogen systems, it ensures both safety and cost-effectiveness. By minimizing risks and optimizing performance, it helps build trust in these critical, high-stakes systems.

A fun fact about you? (Not related to engineering!):

A fun fact about me is that I play the electric guitar! It’s a great creative outlet and a fun way to unwind after a busy day.

Published November 6, 2024