February 15, 2024

Name
Garrett Robison

Area of Study
Industrial and Systems Engineering, Ph.D.

Faculty Advisor
James Noble

Where did you complete undergraduate studies?
University of Missouri.

Why did you choose Mizzou for your graduate program?
I chose Mizzou because of the GAANN Fellowship that they offered.

Tell us about your graduate research. What are some potential outcomes?
I am working on developing technology that will enable a manufacturing philosophy known as mass personalization. If successful, my research could change the way we buy and make products by allowing a consumer to interact with a facsimile of the product that will collect data on how they use said product. This data will then be used to make them a one-off version of the product that meets their specific needs.

What are some accomplishments you’ve achieved at Mizzou that you’re especially proud of?
I have been able to speak at the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers international conference. I have also been able to work on multiple projects with Boeing and the Department of Defense. I am especially proud of the second Boeing project I worked on … Due to the quality of work that another student and I did during an internship they agreed to sign a contract with the Center for Excellence in Logistics and Distribution. I am also very proud of competing with the Society of Manufacturing Engineers student chapter at the SEC Machining Competition. With only two weeks of training, we were able to develop the skills needed not only to compete but to take third place, due in large part to the great faculty here at Mizzou.

What do you hope to do after you complete your degree?
I hope to work in research and development at a large engineering company post graduation. Then after around five years in industry, I hope to start my own consulting practice in order to help businesses provide for their employees and offer them a more fulfilling place to work.

What would you tell others considering Mizzou Engineering for graduate school?
I would tell them that there are a lot of great opportunities. I have been able to work with industry partners on real-world problems where my solutions are still implemented. I have also gotten the opportunity to teach and develop my own course work. In addition to these two things, I have been able to meet lots of industry professionals and participate in many competitions due to my involvement in clubs on campus.