U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Thomas Anderson Shares Career Opportunities with Engineering Students
"The more opportunities we have like this at Point Park, the more we are able to increase our professional networks."
An exclusive campus visit from a high-ranking U.S. Navy official gave students in Point Park University's civil, electrical and mechanical engineering programs the opportunity to learn about the diverse career paths available through the Navy and the construction of a new ship that will be named after the Steel City.
Rear Admiral Thomas J. Anderson, who holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, visited Point Park to share his experiences with students and highlight the commissioning of the future USS Pittsburgh (LPD 31). In his role as program executive officer for ships, Anderson oversees and is responsible for ship-building activities, including those related to amphibious ships, logistics support ships and more.
When a ship is named for a city, it fosters a meaningful bond between that destination and the ship, Anderson explained. It provides exciting opportunities for crew members to connect with the city's community and build a sense of pride around the ship. He described the process behind the ship's construction, how crews conduct sea trial testing and how they determine the capabilities that will be built into a ship. The USS Pittsburgh, an amphibious transport dock, is slated for completion in 2028.
Anderson and several of his fellow officers emphasized that there are many career opportunities available to engineers through the Navy, whether they enlist or choose to work in a civilian role.
"There are a lot of different ways to serve your country," said Capt. Matthew L. Tardy. "There is a whole world out there available to you."
Abdullahi Mada, a senior mechanical engineering major, found the event inspiring. While he is focused on pursuing roles in the energy and manufacturing sectors, the presentation piqued his interest.
"The more opportunities we have like this at Point Park, the more we are able to increase our professional networks," he said.
Iryana Muckle, a sophomore civil engineering major, appreciated the chance to learn about the various ships built by the Navy and the job opportunities that support the military branch's functions.
"It's not one team; you need everyone to finish the project and protect our country," she said.
Photos by Nadia Jones '25.
Read more about the engineering programs at Point Park:
- Get Career-Ready with: Anne Barbosa '26, Mechanical Engineering Major
- Get Career-Ready with: Evan Carter '26, Civil Engineering Major
- Following Successful Internship, Alejandro Sthory '22 Lands Electrical Engineering Job with Civil & Environmental Consultants
- Mechanical Engineering Major Miguel Torrenegra Finds Community at Point Park University and CEC Internship
- School of Arts & Sciences Closes Out Academic Year with Events Celebrating Graduates, Student Projects