AARON ACKERMAN, CLASS OF 2011

Engineering physics student by day, bluegrass musician by night, Aaron Ackerman has no shortage of talent.

“I started taking violin lessons when I was eight and seriously considered pursuing a career in music,” says Aaron, who plays in a bluegrass band, The Ackermans, with his father, brother and sister. “But I have always loved math, and decided that an engineering degree will allow me to do some really exciting work with energy technology.  I know I’ll always be making music on the side.”

With a minor in mathematics almost complete, Aaron will finish his engineering physics program while earning a graduate degree in nuclear engineering through Mines’ five-year master’s program. “I’m interested in researching new methods of power production from a nuclear core and exploring the public policy side of nuclear power as well,” he says. “Attending one of the best energy research institutions in the country will definitely prepare me to make strides in my field.”

Also accepted at Purdue University and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Aaron chose Mines for the school’s outstanding reputation, five-year master’s option, and affordability. His scholarship package offsets in-state tuition rates enough for him to work only a few hours a week during the school year and otherwise focus on his demanding academic program.

Aaron is one of 11 students who have received the Lawrence E. and Charlotte R. Barrett Endowed Scholarship. Established in 1999 by alumnus Larry Barrett ’50, a petroleum engineering graduate who was himself the recipient of a full tuition scholarship while at Mines, the endowment has provided more than $86,000 in scholarships for talented Mines students. Larry set up the scholarship to support undergraduates in any field of study, with the hope that recipients will use their degrees to help better themselves and the community.

Aaron is primed to fulfill Larry’s expectation. “I’m continually amazed by the research going on here,” he says. “Professors talk about the projects they’re working on in the real world, which is very motivating. I’m excited to take the problem-solving skills I’ve learned here to tackle my own real-world challenges.”