Matthew J. McBride, Engineering Technology Alum

Degrees:
BAET (2020)

Current Residence:
Memphis, TN

Current Employer:
City of Memphis Division of Engineering

 

 

 

 

 

 

What influenced your decision to attend Herff College of Engineering? 

The University of Memphis Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music awarded me a music performance scholarship, which sparked my interest in exploring the Herff College of Engineering, as I was also passionate about pursuing a career in STEM.

How did Herff prepare you for your career? 

The Herff College of Engineering not only equipped me for a dynamic career in STEM, but also provided me with the skills to face any challenges life may present. Thanks to my experience at Herff College of Engineering, along with the support of its exceptional faculty and staff, I am better prepared to navigate whatever obstacles come my way in my professional career and in life.

What skills or knowledge did you learn throughout the program that you found most helpful in your career? 

I am grateful for the unwavering faith, confidence, and problem-solving mindset that I developed during my time at the Herff College of Engineering. These qualities continue to guide me in my career, especially now as I take on a leadership role where I rely on the same skills, I learned to navigate challenges and drive success every day.

 Who was your most impactful professor? Why? 

Dr. Larry Moore was the most impactful professor I had, not just because of his expertise, but because of the genuine love and enthusiasm he brought to teaching environmental wastewater treatment. I witnessed Dr. Moore speak with such passion about his specialty that it inspired me to seek the same level of dedication in my own career. Environmental wastewater treatment wasn’t the most popular course, particularly given its focus on sanitary sewage management. Despite this, Dr. Moore’s infectious enthusiasm and deep love for his work made a lasting impression on me. His passion for the field sparked my own desire to contribute to the City of Memphis Division of Engineering, allowing me to serve the city where I grew up.

Were you involved in student groups? If so, which one(s)? 

ASCE, NSBE.

What support(s) did you have during your time as a college student? How did you keep focused on the goal? 

My family was my greatest source of support throughout my undergraduate journey. They instilled in me the importance of being relentless and maintaining strong faith, which were key to my success in my college program.

What was your greatest memory from your time at Herff? 

My greatest memory from my time at the Herff College of Engineering was being part of the first graduating class to experience a virtual graduation in Spring 2020. Sharing this significant milestone with my friends and family, and seeing my name and face announced on the screen, made the moment even more special.

What advice would you give those considering enrolling in Herff College of Engineering?

I encourage future students enrolling in the Herff College of Engineering to fully engage with the faculty, staff, and peers in the program to ensure their success. I wouldn’t have been able to complete this journey without the timely support and guidance I received from people within this community. The Herff College of Engineering is more than just an academic program—it is a diverse network of individuals committed to helping you grow, from your time as a student to your future as a professional. The relationships I cultivated at Herff have far exceeded my expectations and have been instrumental in my development.

What do you know now that you wish you had known during your time at Herff? 

That everything will work out in your program as long as you prepare, ask questions, and collaborate effectively with your faculty and peers.

Was your Herff experience worth the price? If you could do it over again, what would you do differently? 

My experience at the Herff College of Engineering was undoubtedly worth the investment. If I had the chance to do it all over again, the only thing I would change is believing in myself sooner and trusting that I was capable of succeeding in this incredible program.