Tyler Goodrich

Tyler Goodrich chose Arizona State University for its proximity to his family and the strong reputation of its engineering programs. Specifically drawn to the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Goodrich appreciated The Polytechnic School‘s hands-on curriculum and smaller class sizes, which provided an environment conducive to focused learning.

Goodrich’s choice to major in engineering with a focus on mechanical systems stemmed from a blend of his analytical and creative inclinations. Growing up with a passion for math and science, he was inspired by engineering’s balance between creativity and problem-solving.

“It’s a perfect blend of creativity and analytical thinking to solve problems and create something that could benefit the people in our communities,” he says.

One of the aspects of engineering that Goodrich finds especially surprising is its pervasiveness in daily life. While many view everyday items as simple conveniences, engineers use their detail-oriented eye to identify underlying systems.

“While most people see an ordinary refrigerator, a mechanical engineer sees a convection cooling system operated by a compressor,” Goodrich says.

Goodrich’s academic “aha!” moment came in a thermodynamics class that cemented his passion for mechanical systems. Earlier classes on electrical and manufacturing topics hadn’t sparked his interest in the same way, but thermodynamics, due to its applications in engines and power generation, captivated him. 

Goodrich’s thermodynamics instructor, Associate Professor Pavlos Mikellides, played a crucial role in his academic progress. Mikellides transformed Goodrich’s idea of the process of tackling problems and reshaped his understanding of what it truly means to be an engineer.

“This really solidified my interest in the mechanical and thermodynamic systems we see in the automotive and aerospace industries,” he says.

Throughout his time at ASU, Goodrich engaged in hands-on projects that brought complex engineering concepts to life. These experiences, such as designing an ergonomic helicopter grip mount and programming an autonomous vehicle model, helped him see the real-world applications of his studies. Reflecting on these experiences, Goodrich notes that they gave him a glimpse into what a future as an engineer would actually look like.

Goodrich’s long-term career goals involve revolutionizing automotive powertrains, particularly in reducing emissions through efficient design. He hopes to work on hybrid-electric and internal combustion engines, aiming to innovate within the renewable energy space in automotive engineering.

Read about other exceptional graduates of the Fulton Schools’ fall 2024 class here.