Christopher Nelon, Phd Email & Phone Number

You cannot change the wind, but you can adjust your sail. I came across the quote years ago, but I never truly understood its sentiment until I embarked on my mechanical engineering journey. In short: one must adapt against your wishes.I carefully crafted a plan for my future in high school (like everyone does). Go to Clemson University. Study mechanical engineering. But then my plans were beached when I failed to attain a coveted work experience. That failure, however, led to the start of my journey as a researcher—a path that aligns with my belief in being a lifelong learner. I began researching carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites which were relatively novel to me then. I recalled watching the Tour de France each year and witnessing the evolution of bike frames into advanced materials, but that was the extent of my knowledge. Exploring the applications of the material revealed its commonality, especially in the aerospace, automotive, performance sports (yes, that includes sailing), and medicine industries. My undergraduate research experience ultimately led to enrolling in graduate school to earn my Master’s Degree—the last item on my plan.Working on a new project, tangentially incorporating carbon fiber composites, I grew as a student through academic writing, numerical software, and experimental procedures. Land (graduation) was in sight, but then a gust of wind (or a pandemic) decided to push me in another direction. My research shifted to focus on data analytics utilizing machine learning in Python—again, little did I realize my interest in this method and programming.Furthering my research and learning interests, I continued on to pursue a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Clemson University (expected December 2023). The Ph.D. process required personal growth and self-motivation. I developed my writing skills using LaTeX and programming skills in Python to assist peers in their work. As a senior lab group member, I mentor my peers by communicating new ideas, aiding in experimental methods, and offering feedback.My course adjustments have led me to a place unimagined fifteen years ago, but I have yielded unexpected opportunities. Publishing collaborative research with other institutions and departments. Becoming the resident expert in a topic for my lab group. Managing a laboratory space. Developing and coordinating outreach, mentoring, and instructional programs. Independently instructing a junior-level course.As I conclude my journey as a graduate student, I am looking to begin a career focused on research and development.