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KALAMAZOO, Mich.— Adam Tuckey, an aerospace engineering and mathematics student at ɫɫ�� Michigan University, has been awarded the U.S. Department of Defense Science, Mathematics and Research for Transformation Scholarship.

“This award gives students a chance to not only drive engineering innovation but also protect the security of our nation,” says Tuckey. “This is why I am so grateful for receiving a SMART scholarship.”

Students who are selected for a SMART scholarship receive full tuition, including books; generous annual stipends ranging from $25,000 to $38,000; a Department of Defense summer internship, and guaranteed full-time employment following graduation. 

For Tuckey, this means an internship during summer 2023 at  in California. After graduating from ɫɫ��, he will join the 771^st test squadron at Edwards as a civilian test engineer for electronic warfare systems.

“I highly encourage others to apply for this prestigious award as it is an amazing opportunity to kickstart your STEM career!” says Tuckey.

Tuckey will earn a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering and a B.S. in applied mathematics when he graduates in 2024. He is also pursuing a minor in data science. “I’ve always been a mathematical thinker and a problem solver and there are lots of majors that would slot me into a rewarding career field. Ultimately, I chose engineering because it will allow me to make the most impact on the technology of tomorrow.”

Tuckey has worked as both an undergraduate research assistant and a tutor through the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. He completed a summer internship at P.J. Wallbank Springs and is currently working as an engineering intern at Parker Hannifin. Tuckey has participated in Bronco Marching Band, the Formula SAE student organization, Air Force ROTC and intramural sports.

“The experiences associated with each one of these activities have shaped me into a more well-rounded individual,” says Tuckey.

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About the SMART program

The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program is a combined educational and workforce development opportunity for bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. students to gain technical skills in critical STEM fields and support the national security mission of the Department of Defense.

This award provides students with full tuition for up to five years, mentorship, summer internships, a stipend and full-time employment with the Department of Defense after graduation. For more information on the SMART Program or to learn how students can apply, please visit . The application is open annually from August through December.

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