April 20, 2025

Ricardo Perez-Cruz always knew he would be an engineer. Now, he’s weeks away from graduating and becoming a #MizzouMade Engineer. Learn more about his campus experience.

For Ricardo Perez-Cruz, moving to campus on his own in the fall of 2021 marked the start of his journey.

He made it a priority to get involved freshman year, attending the Engineering New Student BBQ and Mizzou Involvement Week. These events introduced him to the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE), both of which he has served as president.

Now, he’s weeks away from graduating with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering.

“From career fairs that provided professional development opportunities, to challenging coursework that sharpened my skills, every aspect of my education has contributed to my growth,” Perez-Cruz said. “Beyond academics, the community I’ve built with my peers within the College has been pivotal in my development.”

Learn more about his undergraduate experience, why he’s proud to be a Tiger and what he has planned after graduation.

I always knew I wanted to be an engineer.

Choosing industrial engineering was an easy decision once I learned more about the field. Industrial engineering combines principles from engineering, mathematics and business to design, analyze and manage systems that involve people, materials and information. I was instantly intrigued by the potential this blend of principles brought to the major.

The versatility of industrial engineering is what I love most.

Whether in corporate operations, health care, manufacturing or any other industry, the skill set you develop in this major allows you to succeed. This adaptability not only makes job searching more dynamic but also ensures that your career will remain fresh and exciting as new opportunities present themselves.

This year, I’m serving as the IISE president, working towards strengthening our industrial engineering network and finding ways to highlight our presence within the College. Joining a diverse range of organizations is essential for any engineering student as it opens the door to strong professional connections, lasting relationships and powerful career development opportunities.

Being a Tiger is about more than attending Mizzou.

It’s about embracing the university’s core values of respect, responsibility, discovery and excellence. No matter where I go, I carry the passion and energy of this community with me. I’m proud to be part of such a vibrant and supportive environment that has shaped both my career and my life in so many meaningful ways.

I’m excited to be moving to Cincinnati for a full-time role as a supply chain manager.

I’ll be working at Procter & Gamble. This position will be the beginning of my professional journey, and while I may be leaving campus, I know that Mizzou will always be a part of who I am.

Mizzou has it all.

Mizzou Engineering fosters an environment where motivated students can thrive. Just take the initiative, and the opportunities will follow — whether you’re looking for top-tier engineering programs, leadership opportunities or a welcoming and spirited campus environment. If you take full advantage of what’s available, you won’t just earn a degree, you’ll build a foundation for lifelong success.

Earn a degree while gaining life-changing experiences. Choose Mizzou Industrial Engineering!