Max Neville

Max Neville builds with intention, focusing on solutions that extend beyond the classroom.

An honors student in the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence, part of the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University, he will graduate in spring 2026 as a Grand Challenges Scholar. Earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science with a minor in mathematics and a certificate in applied cybersecurity, his decision to attend ASU was shaped by both environment and opportunity. 

“I was appreciative of the sheer amount of resources the university has to offer,” he says. “I truly believe that this is a field that will only grow.”

Neville’s work reflects that outlook. 

Through the Center of Negative Carbon Emissions, he contributed to the Mechanical Tree project, developing a machine learning model to identify trends in complex datasets and improve efficiency in carbon capture analysis. He also led a team with Paragon Autonomous, designing drones for fire defense. The team successfully launched a prototype and earned funding, marking a key achievement in both engineering and leadership.

His approach to technology is grounded in understanding its limits.

“These models only mimic reasoning, and that inevitably leads to problems,” Neville says of artificial intelligence, or AI. “It’s necessary to have a proper understanding of the material in order to troubleshoot issues in large, complex projects.”

That mindset has supported his academic achievements, including the New American University President’s Scholarship and consistent recognition on the dean’s list. It has also shaped his growth outside the classroom. 

He also values the confidence he gained through industry experience. During a previous internship, Neville realized he could adapt to new challenges without feeling out of place, reinforcing his growth as an engineer. He encourages others to pursue engineering, noting that the problem-solving mindset it fosters can translate across disciplines and reveal exciting opportunities.

Neville’s thesis continues this work, focusing on a robotic platform that uses LiDAR sensors and localization techniques for obstacle detection and navigation.

After graduation, he plans to begin a career in software engineering in the Tempe area while continuing to explore robotics and cybersecurity, particularly in research and development. He is especially interested in applications like robotic prosthetics, where engineering can directly improve lives.

“The satisfaction of getting a program to produce the correct output is extremely rewarding,” Neville says.

Favorites

Hobby: Playing the guitar
Band: The Strokes
TV show: Scavenger’s Reign
Activity: Rock climbing
Sports team: Chicago Bears

Read about other exceptional graduates of the Fulton Schools’ spring 2026 class.

Written by Aisha Kaddi