September 28, 2025
Drake Heismeyer applied lessons from the classroom and the gridiron in his summer internship with Murphy Company.
Mizzou Engineering students don’t back down. In the classroom, the lab and on the job, they apply lessons from their instructors, mentors and coaches to tackle the most pressing issues facing communities around Missouri and the world.
Take Drake Heismeyer. Mizzou Football fans will recognize his name. An offensive lineman for the Tigers, he played 53 games over five seasons. He also made the Fall Southeastern Conference Academic Honor Roll three times.
Heismeyer recently traded the stadium for the construction site, interning as a pre-construction engineer with mechanical contractor Murphy Company.
“My internship really confirmed for me that I’m on the right path,” the mechanical engineering major said. “It showed me how rewarding this career can be.”
Heismeyer spent his summer reviewing mechanical drawings, putting together takeoffs and estimates, and working with his team to coordinate designs.
“I’ve always been interested in how things work and how to design solutions to real-world problems,” he said. “What I like most is how it applies to so many industries, from aerospace to construction.”
Heismeyer connected with Murphy Company at a Mizzou Engineering career fair, thanks to the Career Services team, who also worked with him to optimize his resume and prepare for his interview.
He credits his instructors for providing him with a solid foundation in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics and mechanical design, and for instilling in him a problem-solving mindset.
“Mizzou Engineering teaches you how to break down complex problems and find workable solutions,” he said. “That was exactly what I needed on the job.”
Heismeyer said the lessons he learned in a black-and-gold jersey — discipline, teamwork and how to perform under pressure — will endure beyond graduation.
“On the field, you’re part of a team, constantly analyzing situations and adjusting in real time, which isn’t all that different from engineering problem-solving,” he said. “That overlap has really shaped how I approach challenges in school and at work.”
Heismeyer encouraged other Mizzou Engineering students to pursue internships.
“You’ll learn more in one summer than you can imagine. Ask questions and take initiative. It shows people you’re invested and willing to grow,” he said. “Go for it.”
Show the world what a Tiger can do. Get started with Career Services.