Engineering the Future: What Tomorrow's Engineers want in a Career

What does it take to attract and inspire the next generation of engineers? Hear directly from two standout scholarship winners, Matthew Young and Isaiah Choma, as they share their journeys, motivations, and what they’re really looking for in an employer. From switching majors and navigating internships to the importance of work-life balance and company culture, this conversation is packed with honest insights and a few laughs along the way.HighlightsThe winding path from biology to civil engineeringHow scholarship opportunities shape student decisionsThe real value of internships (and the “space to be incompetent”)What young engineers want from employers—beyond salaryThe role of company culture and growth opportunitiesLightning round: favorite bars, movies, and dream travel destinationsChapters00:00 – Welcome and introductions at SMH Engineering in Manhattan, KS01:00 – Meet Matthew Young: background, family, and early interests03:00 – The journey to engineering: switching majors and finding a fit08:30 – Why K State? College choices and COVID-era experiences13:00 – Internships: from city government to Black & Veatch22:50 – Landing a full-time offer and what matters most in a job25:15 – Isaiah joins: biomedical engineering, film, and global ambitions29:00 – What young engineers look for in employers and company culture33:30 – Questions for employers: best days, worst days, and the future of work41:00 – Lightning round: favorite bars, movies, and retirement dreams53:20 – Final thoughts and thanksResources MentionedACEC Kansas Scholarship Program ACEC Kansas ScholarshipsBlack & Veatch Black & Veatch CareersKansas State University (K-State) K-State EngineeringSMH Consultants SMH ConsultantsASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers) ASCEAISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) AISCOther Resources: Learn more about ACEC Kansas