About Lauren
Lauren Williams is a 5th-year engineering student at the University of Cincinnati, graduating in May 2020. Lauren is a majoring in Mechanical Engineering.
Lauren and her teammates are working on the Convertible Scooter Cover Challenge to help Vietnam Veteran, Mike Donnelly. Mike uses a mobility scooter to get around. The team is designing an automated cover for Mike so that he can use his scooter outdoors and be protected from the sun, just by pressing a button.
Question & Answer
Why did you choose your major? I chose mechanical engineering because I knew that I liked group work and designing products that benefit others. Mechanical engineering is one of the more broad engineering majors, so it would give me plenty of options after graduation. In high school, I worked on projects that benefited the students at the school, which I quickly realized was something I could see myself doing for the rest of my life.
Describe your experience working with QL+ so far. I immediately knew that I wanted to do my senior design project with QL+ when I found out all they do for those who sacrifice for our country. Everyone we’ve worked with has been incredibly kind. The biggest challenge has been physically building the scooter cover. We learn all of the theory in school, and this is the first time we’ve put that theory into a real-life design. The most rewarding part of this hard work is the time spent with Mike and getting to hear how interested he is in what we are doing.
What is it like working with your Challenger? It is nice to be able to create a product for a real person and get to hear about what it means to them. As well, it means a lot to be able to give back to a veteran. Mike has been great to work with and gives our group a warm welcome into his home each time we visit to work on our project. I have learned how important kindness can be and how much more enjoyable it can make any experience.
What would you say to other students about QL+? To other students, I would say that QL+ is a great organization to work with if you are looking to use your talents and pick up new skills all while giving back to the heroes of this country.
What are your plans after graduation? I have accepted a full-time offer as a Quality Engineer with L3Harris for after graduation and will be staying in the Cincinnati area.
What has been the proudest moment of your college career? The thing I am most proud of so far in my college career has been finding and accepting a job offer for something that I really enjoy and can see myself doing for years to come.
What three words best describe you? The three words that best describe me are driven, innovative, and loyal.
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