CCE Undergrad Spotlight — George McAtee

Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering undergrad George McAtee says what drew him to the discipline was its potential for a positive impact on both the environment and community. A dream project of his is to create open community spaces for people to come together and enjoy.

Hometown: Wadsworth, Illinois

Current year: Junior


George originally planned to play Division III soccer, but after his visit to Purdue University, he knew that this was the perfect place for him.

Why I chose Purdue Civil and Construction Engineering

I’ve always had an interest in math and science, but I wasn’t sure exactly where I wanted to study. I actually had the option to play in Division III soccer on scholarship, but after I came to visit Purdue University though the Minority Engineering Program, I knew this was the place for me. The university and the campus felt very welcoming and diverse, and its civil engineering program is incredible.

Emphasis area

I am currently in general civil engineering. I am interested in the environmental side of civil engineering and well and public spaces. I would love to one day be part of a team that creates open community spaces for people to come together and enjoy.


As a civil engineer, George says he would like to work on creating an open community area for people to come together and enjoy.

Campus involvement

Being a student at the Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering has afforded me many opportunities. I am a member of Purdue ASCE where I am a member of the group’s concrete canoe team, I am a member of the National Society of Black Engineers, and I play in Purdue’s intermural soccer league. Whether it’s academic, social, or athletic organizations you can always find something to be a part of.

After I graduate

I am definitely interested in pursuing a Master’s degree. I am unsure if I want to do that right after I earn my Bachelor’s or later in my career, but it is something I want to pursue. I believe that a grad degree will help gain a greater understanding over the field and allow me to be a better leader in the engineering industry.


Geroge says what drew him to civil engineering was its potential for a positive impact on both the environment and the community.