Internship Student Award Current Award Recipient

Joni McCawley, Texas State University

Joni McCawley is a junior pursuing a computer engineering degree at Texas State University. During the summer of 2023, she interned with Milwaukee Tool’s Front End Innovation division, where her role involved contributing to a research and development team comprised of engineers with advanced degrees in the fields of machine learning, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI). Her involvement within this remarkable team drastically enhanced her engineering skillset and practical experience in designing cutting-edge technologies.

With aspirations of a career in AI and robotics, Joni has demonstrated leadership and involvement in a variety of activities. Noteworthy experiences include her internship with the Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure (NHERI) at UT Austin’s Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC), involvement in Texas State’s High-Performance Engineering (HiPE) lab focused on developing a Python-based machine learning system supporting children with autism, and her current role in Texas State’s Center for High-Performance Systems (CHiPS) lab, where she contributes to the advancement of worker safety through innovative machine learning solutions.

Joni holds leadership roles in student organizations including the Society of Women Engineers where she holds the position of secretary, promoting a supportive community and mentoring young women in engineering. Furthermore, she is a member of the Houston Louise Stokes STEM Pathways and Research Alliance (H-LSAMP), an NSF supported program aimed at increasing the number of minorities in STEM fields with baccalaureate degrees.

Joni’s passion, dedication, and contributions to the field of AI and robotics, along with leadership roles and engagement in exceptional research, drives her eagerness for continuous learning and constant growth as an engineer. Joni plans on extending her education through a master’s degree, aspiring not only to further her own expertise but also to serve as a role model for other young women pursuing degrees in STEM.