THE 'T' IN STEM: Alex

Technology around you...

As a child, I found myself taking things apart in an attempt to understand how they work. It started with a bicycle and understanding how the gear, chain, and sprocket work together to create motion. This eventually led to my taking apart more advanced things, such as hand-held video game systems. My curious nature indicated to me that I should pursue a career in technology.

There is great knowledge to be gained from digging below the surface. Technology allows people to perform tasks more effectively and efficiently. Being able to understand the underlying mechanisms and design technology, however, is key to creating innovative technology solutions. Technology has the ability to utilize problem solving skills to an entirely new degree.

Now is a great time to begin a career in technology. Technology is a powerful force that impacts every aspect of life as we know it. Technology is what keeps our water clean, lights on, and cars safe. It is what keeps people connected via radio, internet, and telephones. It facilitates unique and challenging career paths that previous generations could not access. A career in technology offers a direct way to make a difference and enrich quality of life across our entire planet.

About the Author: Alex Kidd, 25, is an analog electrical engineer at Raytheon Missile Systems. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Arkansas in 2013 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Alex spends his free time writing folk music, flying single-engine aircraft, and backpacking in the backcountry.