Mechanical Engineering Technology and IT Double Major Offered Position With U.S. Navy Monday, April 11, 2016
Meet Brittney Badgett
Job title: Advanced Electronics Computer Field Program Officer (beginning in June)
Employer: United States Navy
Majors: Information Technology and Mechanical Engineering Technology
Expected graduation: May 2017
College activities: Point Park Women's Basketball Team
Hometown: Cocoa Beach, Fla.
High school: Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School
Now living in: Pittsburgh, Pa.
Hobbies/interests: Museums, ballets, art shows, robotics competitions and design programs that improve the efficiency of computer security
Twitter: BBmarie_11
Tell us about the work you will be doing for the U.S. Navy.
As an advanced electronics computer field program officer, I will be working with the United States Navy's fleet of surface ships including aircraft carriers and Aegis cruisers, and doing repair activities ashore. I will maintain and repair radar, communication and navigation electronics equipment.
Also, I will get to operate, maintain and repair the fire control radars, mainframe computers, large screen displays, local area networks, weapon control consoles, automatic gun systems and associated electro-mechanical systems utilized in weapons systems.
As a Florida native, what factors made you choose Point Park?
Point Park University has qualities that many other universities of interest lack. Its location was a prime factor. For networking purposes, I found it beneficial to be at the core of a city. Also, Point Park has given me the opportunity to continue my basketball career while allowing me to remain focused on my education and career development.
Why did you decide to major in IT and mechanical engineering technology?
I chose to major in both information technology and mechanical engineering technology because my interest in both fields related directly to my career aspirations. The information technology major offers courses in advanced programming as well as software. In this major, my concentration is in software development. These courses teach me to design computer applications that will allow for PC-controlled robotics. As for the mechanical engineering technology major, this program teaches students how mechanisms work. This will help me in the future with directly creating new advancements in bionics. With knowledge in both of these fields, I want to develop neurological applications within the medical industry.
What has been your favorite class and why?
Thus far, the best course I have taken was Introduction to Programming instructed by Dr. Mark Voortman. Within the first few weeks of this course, I learned a great deal. The course material was understandable and allowed for both lectures and hands-on activities.
Describe the teaching styles of Point Park's professors.
The teaching styles of Point Park professors are very impactful. Instead of the typical lecture, they open the floor to students for question and answer periods and they incorporate hands-on activities throughout their courses.
What do you enjoy about being a Pioneer?
What I enjoy most about being a student at Point Park is the University's location. I'm blocks away from top companies in my fields and during day-to-day commutes, I speak with employees from these companies about current technological advances. I also enjoy the communication between students and faculty at Point Park. Additionally, I have learned a lot and prospered in my fields of study with the help of the Career Development Center and recommendations from faculty.
Another part about Point Park I enjoy is athletics. This department attracts the best athletes who uphold great character attributes. Playing for the Point Park University Women's Basketball Team has been a pleasure throughout my college career. From travel games to home games to summer leagues, I have made great friends and have enjoyed learning from my coaches.
What is your career goal?
My career goal is to start my own company that designs and manufactures medical software and products.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Attending Point Park University has been a wonderful experience. It was the best decision I ever made to kick start my career.
Photo by Victoria A. Mikula, junior mass communication major