Nicole Blankenship is designing a future in engineering technology

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Inspired by the opportunity to make change in the world, engineering design technology and German language student Nicole Blankenship is gearing up for a career that is always evolving. 

Blankenship, set to graduate in the fall of 2026, arrived at Western Michigan University with creation at the forefront of her mind. The design aspect of engineering technology was an intriguing concept to Blankenship, and when introduced to the varying possibilities in the field, she knew that her path was clear.  

“I specifically knew that I wanted to do a design emphasis on my degree because I always liked design work in general,” says Blankenship. “The thought of having the technical knowledge to actually make a significant difference in the world was what really got me into this degree.”  

Blankenship has several goals for her career: she’s hoping to eventually work for General Motors at some point in her career as well as a company that has ties to Germany so that she may put her German skills to the test.  

“I think my professional journey will have a lot of cool advancements in discovering new technologies,” says Blankenship. “I hope to be at a company that works in the automotive industry for a portion of my future career, but I also want to explore other aspects of the engineering world as well. One aspect that I think is a cool sector of the field is furniture design and designing event spaces for multiple purposes.”  

While at Western, Blankenship has spent her time engaging in student organizations and completing an internship. A member of the Society of Women Engineers and Bronco Skating, Blankenship has gotten to know people from across the University, expanding her knowledge and networking skills as she meets new people. Additionally, Blankenship was an intern for a small start-up in 2024, Canine Innovation, where she developed an electronics hub for the company’s overall system. 

Now, Blankenship is a student ambassador for Western’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. In this position, Blankenship leads tours of the college and meets potential future Broncos as they are first introduced to the University.  

“Being a student ambassador has allowed me to branch off into the engineering world a little more in that I have gotten to know people outside of my specific major,” says Blankenship. “It has also allowed me to help prospective students in deciding about their future college experiences and I love helping those with any knowledge that I can provide.”  

As Blankenship’s graduation date approaches, she reflects on what made her experience at WMU unique.  

“I would say the best experiences have been knowing that my professors, advisors and chairperson have the attitude of wanting to know the students and help them along in their journeys,” says Blankenship. “I would also say that the best experience itself has been that my professors are always willing to help if I reach out to them and explain the situation.”   
   
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