Undergraduate teaching assistants are a vital part of the Office of Professional Practice team. These TAs contribute to OPP projects and events, assist with ENGR 296 and ENGR 103 courses, and mentor underclassmen as they navigate college and gain early exposure to industry and academia. Serving as a bridge between our office and students on campus, these TAs play an essential role in our programs. This semester, we are celebrating two graduating TAs who have made a significant impact on the success of our office. Join us in recognizing and celebrating their achievements!
Noah Willis
Mechanical Engineering
Dayton, Ohio
During his time at Purdue University, Noah Willis has embraced a wealth of unique opportunities that have shaped his academic and professional career. He completed a
three-rotation engineering co-op with Gulfstream Aerospace, worked as a Learning Community Student Ambassador, served as a Lead TA for the Office of Professional Practice (OPP), and joined the Student Semiconductor Association (SSA). Additionally, Noah engaged in funded undergraduate research within the Scalable Asymmetric Lifecycle Engagement (SCALE) program, focusing on Heterogeneous Integration and Advanced Packaging for semiconductors.
The highlight of Noah’s Purdue experience has been the amazing people he’s met along the way. He reflects on the supportive community, noting how everyone isn’t just willing to help but actively seeks ways to assist and support one another—especially within the OPP. This environment, paired with Purdue’s endless opportunities, inspired him to take chances and pursue his goals.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Noah’s role as an OPP TA has been mentoring younger engineers. He finds it rewarding to guide students who are now in the position he once was and to witness their growth and success. This experience has instilled in him an appreciation for giving back to a community that has helped him thrive.
After graduation, Noah will be heading to Camas, Washington to join TSMC as a Photolithography Equipment Engineer. Looking ahead, he sees life as an adventure and feels confident in his ability to tackle any challenge that comes his way.
To students just beginning their college journey, Noah advises: “There are so many opportunities here to succeed—you just have to take the first step and go for them! Don’t be scared to ask questions or ask for help! That’s what most of the people at Purdue are here for.”
Eric Lehman
Mechanical Engineering
Long Island, New York
Throughout his time at Purdue University, Eric Lehman has taken advantage of numerous distinctive opportunities that have significantly influenced his academic and professional journey. Eric was deeply involved in the GEARE program, serving as a GEARE Ambassador before studying abroad in Germany. Through this program, he completed a study abroad experience at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) in Karlsruhe, Germany, and participated in a three-rotation co-op with Daimler Truck, working in Detroit, MI, Germany, and Portland, OR.
The highlight of Eric’s Purdue experience was his study abroad in Germany. Living in another country provided him with a fresh perspective on the world and a profound sense of independence. During this time, Eric embraced the freedom to travel, formed meaningful connections, and immersed himself in new cultures, creating memories he will cherish forever.
Within the Office of Professional Practice (OPP), Eric found a community of motivated, like-minded individuals who shared his passion for gaining unique college experiences. The OPP community offered a network of support and inspiration, making it one of the most enriching parts of his Purdue journey.
As an OPP TA, Eric has relished the opportunity to mentor younger students. Sharing insights and lessons gained throughout his college career has been a rewarding way to give back, while also reflecting on his own growth over the years. This role has deepened his appreciation for the importance of community and mentorship.
Looking ahead, Eric plans to take a break after graduation to travel and explore the world once more, rekindling the passion for discovery he developed during his study abroad. Long-term, he aspires to pursue a career in coastal engineering, a field that captured his interest through coursework at Purdue. Whether through industry experience or advanced studies, Eric is confident that the foundation and skills he’s built at Purdue will guide him toward achieving his goals.
To students starting their journey at Purdue, Eric advises: Be open to new experiences and opportunities. College is the best time to explore different paths and find what truly excites you. You might not stick with everything, but the ones you do will shape your future—just as GEARE did for me.
