Chell Carey: Expanding horizons in Materials Engineering through global experience and curiosity
Chell Carey chose Purdue University with a vision that extended beyond engineering. She was drawn not only to the strength of its engineering programs but to the excellence across all disciplines. For Carey, it was important to be surrounded by a diverse range of perspectives to build a well-rounded education — one that would shape her into more than just a skilled engineer. Carey, a fourth-year materials engineering student from Highlands Ranch, Colorado, found her academic home in materials science and engineering because of its foundational role across all engineering fields. She was also motivated by the opportunity to work hands-on in laboratory settings, combining theory with tangible problem-solving.
Her time at Purdue has been defined by a series of impactful experiential learning opportunities. In 2024, Carey attended the TMS Global Conference in Orlando as a representative of Purdue’s Material Advantage chapter, where she later served as secretary for the 2024-25 academic year. That same year, she was selected as a Manufacturing Track fellow for the Summer Training, Awareness, and Readiness for Semiconductors, or STARS, program.
Her involvement in STARS opened the door to a unique international opportunity, participating in the inaugural Japan-U.S. Joint AI Summit in Hiroshima. The event brought together students from leading institutions, including Purdue, the University of Texas at Austin, Arizona State University and Hiroshima University. Carey said these experiences played a key role in securing her internship with ASML in San Diego for summer 2025, where she applied both her technical knowledge and interpersonal skills in an industry setting.
Carey credits much of her academic direction to the support of her materials engineering academic adviser, Rosemary Son. With Son’s guidance, she transitioned from electrical and computer engineering to materials engineering — a shift Carey said could have been overwhelming without strong mentorship. Instead, it became the foundation for a more fulfilling academic and career path.
Currently, Carey is studying abroad in Leoben, Austria, at Montanuniversität Leoben, where she is taking courses in glass science and technology, photoreactive polymers, machine learning, environmental protection in raw materials production, and microelectronics materials and processes. The experience is giving her deeper insight into the global semiconductor supply chain. With no formal exchange program yet established between the institutions, Carey has embraced the role of a “test pilot,” helping pave the way for future students.
Looking ahead, Carey hopes to contribute to the advancement of the semiconductor industry. She is driven by the understanding that semiconductor technologies underpin nearly every modern engineering innovation. “The world runs on chips,” she said, “and I want to help build a better world.”
Her advice to future students reflects her own approach to learning: Be brave, stay curious and explore widely. Carey encourages students to take full advantage of Purdue’s opportunities, even beyond their major. “If something sparks your interest, pursue it,” she said. “These years are what you make of them. Don’t let fear keep you from the education you deserve.”
Carey’s journey highlights the power of curiosity, global engagement and the willingness to take risks — qualities that are shaping her future and leaving a lasting impact at Purdue and beyond.