CAMPAIGN PRIORITIES

• SECM Creativity, Design & Innovation Ecosystem
• Engineering Programs
• Experiential Learning & Competitive Opportunities

FROM PERSONAL DRIVE TO ELECTRIC DRIVE.

Most students do not turn a lifelong weakness into a defining strength. Adrian “Aj” Smith ’26 is not most students. When Smith arrived at the College of Charleston, math was one of the subjects he struggled with most. Four years later, and with the support given to him by his professors at the College, he graduated with a degree in systems engineering and even a minor in mathematics for good measure.

After internships with Volvo in Charleston, Smith now works in Tesla’s Gigafactory in Austin, Texas. It is the kind of opportunity he once hoped for. He credits the mentors, experiences and confidence he gained in the School of Engineering, Computing, and Mathematics (SECM), where he learned that growth begins when you bet on yourself. The same personal drive that brought him to the College is now helping power the future of transportation.

SECM is focused on shaping the next generation of technology leaders, like Smith. The school creates outstanding educational programs and world-class facilities while also instilling an innovation mindset so all graduates are ready to not just meet, but exceed industry workforce development expectations in an increasingly global AI-driven economy.

Featured Stat

• Nationally recognized undergraduate computer science program (U.S. News & World Report)