Over the next two weeks, as we approach the commencement ceremonies for the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences Class of 2025, we will be sharing some senior spotlights of outstanding students from each CEMS department.

Graduating senior Paige Koterba is a Mechanical Engineering major from Medfield, MA. She is the recipient of the 2025 Student Mechanical Engineer of the Year, awarded by the faculty of the Mechanical Engineering department for overall excellence in the discipline. This spring, Paige took a significant step toward realizing her dream career by passing the industry's Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, a crucial step toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE).

How did you choose your major?

I chose Mechanical Engineering because I've always loved math and science. I've also always been fascinated with the way the world works, and I love getting my hands dirty, so this felt like a natural choice.

Is there a class or professor who had a significant impact on your academic journey at UVM? 

Dr. Yves Dubief has been a huge asset to me over the past 4 years. His door is always open for a conversation about class or life, and his advice has been very influential as I've navigated my time at the University of Vermont. He's always believed in me, and I've gained so much confidence thanks to him! 

Did you participate in faculty-led research?

I worked with Professor Jun Yu for one semester, studying heat conduction, combustion, and diffusivity as part of a NASA-funded project. I also studied the mathematical modeling of droplet combustion in microgravity.

What was the most memorable learning experience during your time at CEMS?

In the spring of 2023 (my sophomore year), I studied abroad in Prague, Czech Republic, at the Czech Technical University for four months. I had a full course load in the mechanical engineering curriculum and immersed myself in Czech culture as much as I could. I also traveled to neighboring countries on some weekends. It was one of the best experiences I've ever had, and I feel very fortunate that I was able to make it work!

Have any internships or work experience helped to guide you on your career path?

Last summer, I interned as an Equipment Engineer at GlobalFoundries in the Chemical Vapor Deposition module. I diagnosed and repaired manufacturing equipment and worked on a project that identified $46,000 per year in potential savings for the fab.

What are your plans after graduation?

In August, I will return to GlobalFoundries full-time to work as a Process Engineer.

Is there any advice you would share with incoming first-year students?

Don't be afraid to sit next to new people during class. The friends you make in your major often become one of your biggest support systems as you progress through college!

Is there an achievement that you are particularly proud of?

I received the 2025 Student Mechanical Engineer of the Year Award this spring.

What extracurricular organizations and activities did you enjoy at UVM?

At the start of my freshman year, I joined UVM's club rowing team and have been doing it since; it's how I spend most of my time outside of school. My boat won bronze at nationals last year!