What does it take to attract and inspire the next generation of engineers? Hear directly from two standout scholarship winners, Matthew Young and Isaiah Choma, as they share their journeys, motivations, and what they’re really looking for in an employer. From switching majors and navigating internships to the importance of work-life balance and company culture, this conversation is packed with honest insights and a few laughs along the way.

Highlights

• The winding path from biology to civil engineering
• How scholarship opportunities shape student decisions
• The real value of internships (and the “space to be incompetent”)
• What young engineers want from employers—beyond salary
• The role of company culture and growth opportunities
• Lightning round: favorite bars, movies, and dream travel destinations

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome and introductions at SMH Engineering in Manhattan, KS

01:00 – Meet Matthew Young: background, family, and early interests

03:00 – The journey to engineering: switching majors and finding a fit

08:30 – Why K State? College choices and COVID-era experiences

13:00 – Internships: from city government to Black & Veatch

22:50 – Landing a full-time offer and what matters most in a job

25:15 – Isaiah joins: biomedical engineering, film, and global ambitions

29:00 – What young engineers look for in employers and company culture

33:30 – Questions for employers: best days, worst days, and the future of work

41:00 – Lightning round: favorite bars, movies, and retirement dreams

53:20 – Final thoughts and thanks

Resources Mentioned

• ACEC Kansas Scholarship Program
  ACEC Kansas Scholarships
• Black & Veatch
  Black & Veatch Careers
• Kansas State University (K-State)
  K-State Engineering
• SMH Consultants
  SMH Consultants
• ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers)
  ASCE
• AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction)
  AISC

Other Resources:
Learn more about ACEC Kansas