December 06, 2024

Ethan Simpkins, a soon-to-be chemical engineering graduate, says he knew Mizzou was the place for him as soon as he visited campus. He recalls driving back home on I-70 thinking it would be a great place to grow academically and personally.

Since then, he’s made close connections with his chemical engineering classmates and faculty, helped organize large events and delved into his coursework.

After graduation, Simpkins will return to St. Louis, Missouri, to work as a process engineer at Elessent Clean Technologies. He also plans to work toward earning a Professional Engineer license and is considering pursuing an MBA to enhance his leadership and business skills.

Read on for a Q&A with Simpkins about his Mizzou Engineering experience.

How did you get involved at Mizzou?

I was involved with many clubs across the College of Engineering including the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), Omega Chi Epsilon (OXE) and Engineers’ Club. In addition, I was able to pursue other interests such as intramural sports and a brief stint in Mizzou’s Ballroom Dancing Club.

Two of my favorite organizations were AIChE and Engineers’ Club. Mizzou’s AIChE student chapter provided a strong community within our program, exposure to guest speakers from industry and leadership opportunities for me to grow outside my education.

Engineers’ Club is the student organization that plans Engineers’ Week each year. I loved my time in the Engineers’ Club because it allowed me to meet amazing people from across the college while we worked to execute some of the oldest traditions at the university. 

What made you interested in your major?

Growing up, I was always very fascinated by how things work. In high school, I really enjoyed engineering, math, and science classes. Then, my AP Chemistry teacher, who was a chemical engineer before becoming an educator, sat me down and explained what chemical engineering was. From that moment, I knew chemical engineering was the right path for me.

I find that the process-based mindset used in chemical engineering makes perfect sense to me. Additionally, the challenges chemical engineers are tasked with solving are extremely engaging and rewarding.

What’s your favorite Mizzou Engineering memory?    

I was a part of planning and hosting the 2023 AIChE Mid-America Student Conference. I was on the executive board charged with planning and executing this conference. After working for over a year to secure funding and organize it, it was amazing to watch all that hard work come together in a successful, record-breaking conference for our region. 

How has Mizzou Engineering helped you achieve your goals?

Mizzou Engineering’s relationships with various employers helped me find internship opportunities and exposure to industry. In addition, the college’s various student organizations provide the opportunity to network with other students and alumni, providing pathways to new opportunities and the chance to grow as a leader.