Taylor Foster

Taylor Foster knew he wanted to become an engineer, but also knew he had a desire to address issues that would require more integrative and multidisciplinary coursework. This led to pursuing a human systems engineering degree in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University.

Foster’s growing awareness of problems in the world that needed to be solved is what prompted him to apply to the Grand Challenges Scholars Program. He could satisfy his wish to help others while broadening his educational opportunities.

In GCSP, his focus has been on the security theme of the program, but he is also interested in sustainability and its interconnection with security.

What he feels is most surprising about the human systems engineering degree program is how widely it applies — far beyond what most people imagine when they hear the word ‘engineering.’ This major connects psychology with engineering design and systems thinking, which is what makes it different from other programs.

The research conducted in the human systems engineering program is important for improving logistics and organization and ensures environmental health and safety in the workplace. It also explores the social, behavioral and ethical aspects of product design to improve user experience and satisfaction with technology.

Through this degree program, Foster has learned to design not just for functionality, but for sustainability, adaptability and resilience. He now looks beyond the immediate solution and considers what will serve people and society well into the future.  

“Engineering has changed how I think about the future,” he says.

When Foster thinks of the Fulton Schools, the first thing that comes to mind is the research activity and opportunities for student involvement, which he took advantage of as a student. He became involved with the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society student chapter at ASU, was an ASU Space Student Ambassador for two years, participated in the Engineering Projects in Community Service program, or EPICS, and served on the officer team for ASU’s U.S. Green Building Council chapter. 

After graduation, he will continue his education through the Accelerated Master’s degree program and then wishes to be involved in research and development aimed at securing a sustainable future, both on Earth and in space.

Read about other exceptional graduates of the Fulton Schools’ spring 2025 class here.