College of Engineering Ambassadors standing together

We’re excited to introduce you to our 2026-2027 College of Engineering Student Ambassadors! Our ambassadors lead tours, help with college events, assist with student mentoring, and answer questions from prospective students about their WCU experience. You will see them at WCU Open House, weekday college tours and WCU Engineering Discovery events and outreach programs. Learn more about our amazing student Engineering Ambassadors below!

Grant Byers giving a presentation

Grant B.

Hometown: Weaverville, NC

Major: Construction Management

Why Construction Management: I love the process of construction and interacting with people on a daily basis.

Favorite Part of WCU: The willingness of WCU professors to be involved with students and their success in the College of Engineering. 

Fun Fact: I can ride a unicycle.

Gavin Lakey holding a fishing rod

Gavin L.

Hometown: Denver, NC

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Why WCU: I grew up loving the mountains and I was looking for an engineering program where I wouldn’t be just a number.

Beyond The Classroom: Kappa Sigma Fraternity, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Society of Automotive Engineers Baja, Football Games, Basketball Games, Engineering Department pickleball tournament.

Fun Fact: I have wheelied my mountain bike for 1.25 miles without putting the bike back on two wheels.

Connor Thompson sitting on a rock

Connor T.

Hometown: Franklinton, NC

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Why WCU: I chose WCU because the moment I attended an open house, I knew this was the best choice for me. The beautiful scenery and everything about the environment here drew me in, and I realized this was the place for me.

Beyond The Classroom: I really enjoy the church groups I’ve found and the sense of community I’ve made through them. I also enjoy going to campus events such as athletics and other activities hosted by the university.

Fun Fact: I love being outdoors and playing any kind of sport.

Kevin Elias Juarez holding a WCU flag

Kevin E.J.

Hometown: Forest City, NC

Major: Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology

Why Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology: I chose to major in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology because I wanted to gain hands-on experience with embedded systems and learn both the hardware and software aspects of electronics.

Advice to Students: Don’t be afraid of change because not all change is bad.  Some can bring new opportunities and growth. 

Fun Fact: I serve as the External Vice President for Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers at WCU.

Lily Sebastian standing outside

Lillian S.

Hometown: Boomer, NC

Major: Electrical Engineering – Electrical Power and Clean Energy Concentration

Career Aspirations: I have accepted a position to work as an Engineer with Duke Energy at the Cowans Ford Hydro Plant working with the Regulated Renewables Regional Engineering Group.

Favorite Part of WCU: I appreciate how our engineering students are industry-ready. I feel confident in my ability to work as an engineer and meaningfully contribute to the projects I’m assigned to.

Fun Fact: I have the soul of an 85 year old woman. I love baking, crafting, and sipping on a tea while rocking in my chair on the porch.

Leon Mueller standing outside

Leon M.

Hometown: Oldenburg, Germany

Major: Electrical Engineering

Career Aspirations: Work in automation leading a U.S. division of a German company.

Advice to Students: Talk to everyone, especially the ones that are doing cool things. We are all happy to talk about what we love doing, so talk to people and get involved!

Fun Fact: I like sewing! I once completely rebuilt and reupholstered my car seats.