IMSE Undergraduate Student Testimonial

February 25, 2022

Maggi DimlerName: Maggie Dimler

Hometown: Peoria, Illinois

Why did you choose Mizzou?

Mizzou had everything that I wanted in a school. It immediately felt like home away from home. Amazing facilities, great athletics, Greek Life, tons of student organizations and superior academic programs drew me in instantly. As a junior, I can confidently say I could not be happier with my decision to come to Mizzou.

Why did you choose industrial engineering?

I initially came to Mizzou as a general engineering major. Taking Intro to Engineering 1000 allowed me to explore all the different types of engineering. Industrial engineering instantly appealed to me. I liked how well it aligned with business but had a heavier basis in mathematics and science. Industrial engineers can make improvements to any industry, so the job opportunities with this degree are limitless.

Do you have a focus area in manufacturing, logistics/supply chain, health systems or energy conservation? What were some of your favorite classes and why?

In my IMSE 3810 (Ergonomics) with Dr. Kim, I had the opportunity to focus my semester long research study on health systems. Reegan Spicer and I chose to study how ICU nurse workload changed to handle the COVID-19 pandemic. While the project was challenging, it was so interesting to apply industrial engineering to a healthcare setting. We ended up winning the IMSE Undergraduate Research Competition with our project. It was so rewarding to see a semester’s worth of work in the classroom pay off.

What are your plans for after graduation? How do you feel the IMSE program prepared you for your career?

After graduation, I hope to land a full-time job that allows me to use my engineering skills and collaborate with others. The IMSE program has allowed me to learn a variety of skills, including working with several types of statistical and simulation software, preparing case studies and writing code. The department has done an excellent job at preparing students for the workforce.

Did you have an internship or other opportunities during your time at Mizzou? Where was it and what did you do?

I am currently in the process of interviewing for a summer internship. Outside of the classroom, I have had the opportunity to get involved with several organizations on campus. I have served as the Academic Chair, Diversity and Inclusion Chair and am currently serving as Risk Manager of Gamma Phi Beta Alpha Delta Chapter. I am also a member of the public relations team for Mizzou Engineering Student Council and a mentor for Alpha Pi Mu Industrial Engineering Society.

Would you recommend the IMSE program and if so, what would you tell prospective students about the program?

Yes, I would recommend the IMSE program to any student who is interested in both business and engineering. The program is a lot of hard work, but the professors want you to succeed. You will finish with a competitive degree and highly sought skills. A final piece of advice – make a habit of going to office hours weekly and build relationships with your peers. I have met some of my best friends in this program!