Lee Clemon
Alumni Spotlight: September 2021
KU Major: Mechanical Engineering
Graduation year: 2011
Current occupation: Lecturer
Research mentor(s): Chris Depcik
Describe the undergraduate research/creative experience that you had while at KU: As a member of Ecohawks, I was keenly interested in renewable energy and sustainable engineering. I led the group in the construction of a smart electric grid incorporating renewable energy, conventional energy, and electric vehicles. I further added to this large group effort by researching the conversion efficiency of the various combinations and pathways of power around the system. We presented this work in Washington D.C. for the EPA's People, Prosperity and the Planet competition. I had an amazing time both in creating something that works and in exploring the diverse range of research in the area.
Q: What do you think was the most important thing you learned while doing undergraduate research?
A: For me, this experience guided my current career. In contrast to other experiences, I found that research and development are where I want to work. I continue to conduct research and strive to create a more environmentally and resilient industrial world. While I learned many practical and professional skills, some humility, and the tenacity that good research requires, I most value the example of mentorship my advisor demonstrated.
Q: What advice do you have for undergraduates who might be interested in doing research or creative scholarship?
A: I highly recommend learning how to conduct research. The critical thinking skills, data fluency, and understanding of the research process that you develop during the experience are valuable in any field. These skills also aid in interpreting the barrage of information we receive daily. Both research and creative scholarship depend on creativity and dedication. These are skills that can be practiced and improved for everyone, but you have to put in the time.
Q: Do you use any of the skills or perspectives gained doing research in your current occupation? How so?
A: Absolutely. As a contributor to international standards, mentor, instructor, and researcher, I employ the skills I started developing in my research experiences as an undergraduate. I have since built upon these with more experience but started the journey at KU. About half of my current occupation is dedicated to basic and applied technical research, the other half is teaching. In both spheres, experimentation, learning from previous methods, and taking a step back to analyze and understand what I observe are vital activities to succeed.
Q: Many undergraduate researchers are making decisions about what to do after they graduate from KU. Having been in those shoes, what do you know now that you wish you’d known then? Do you have any advice?
A: I remember being quite anxious about finding a job. It wasn't an easy search and I had some significant setbacks. What I've learned since about finding a path is first to be honest with yourself about what you find important. This will change over time and it is quite alright to reevaluate. Next, job hunting is part being good at what you do and part networking. Both of these are learned skills and take time and effort to enhance. Both are important. Learning your craft and continuing to push yourself to improve in whatever work you do will be noticed by others and keep you at the top of your field. Networking, however, is also quite important as people and businesses have time and effort constraints. The practicalities of job hunting and hiring mean that those who are easy to access get the first opportunity.