Kevin Conroy: Engineering major inspired by father to join power system industry

Kevin Conroy of Falmouth, Maine is a senior in electrical engineering with a concentration in power systems.

Coming from a “tried and true University of Maine family,” his inspiration to attend UMaine and study engineering came from his parents, Linda and Brian Conroy. His father, a 1986 graduate with a degree in electrical engineering, is director of network projects for Central Maine Power, a subsidiary of Iberdrola USA.

“Both my mother and father are graduates of UMaine, and my older sister also attended. We are Black Bears through and through,” Conroy says. “My parents always had positive things to say about their UMaine experience, and their continued devotion to the college speaks volumes.

“My father attributes his success in his career to the strong foundation he received at UMaine. To top it all off, my parents met while students.”

Only a few months into his senior year, Conroy was offered — and he accepted — a position as a power system engineer at RLC Engineering in Hallowell, Maine where he interned for three summers.

Why did you choose your engineering field as a major?
As a child, I was always intrigued by the way things work. Growing up, my interest led me to destroy my toys — much to the chagrin of my mother — constantly taking them apart, examining their pieces, figuring out how they worked, and then putting them together again. On occasion, I would build my own creations using this knowledge.

In adolescence, I enjoyed science courses, and in high school, I was privileged to take a pre-engineering course where my curiosity was peaked and my enthusiasm was matched. Through this experience, I joined a FIRST Robotics team.

My love for engineering was also fostered by my father, a hard-working engineer in the power system industry. We’d have conversations about engineering and his example provided a strong model for me to emulate.

Why UMaine?
As I began my college search, I knew UMaine had a highly respected engineering program. I was fortunate to know exactly the field I wanted to study while I searched for a college. With its academically rigorous engineering program, reputation for excellence, and quality professors, I was immediately impressed. I knew I would receive a top-notch education that was affordable, and I wanted to give back to the state in which I was raised.

How would you describe the academic atmosphere in the College of Engineering?
The College of Engineering is demanding, not only academically, but personally. You have to be convicted in your desire to pursue this industry to not just survive, but to thrive. The college offers courses and professors that really challenge you and take you out of your comfort zone. You’ll dedicate hours to studying and projects, but ultimately, it’s for your own sake. They are adept at churning out individuals who are competent engineers prepared to hold their own in a difficult field, and while the journey is tough, it’s incredibly rewarding.

Have you worked closely with a mentor, professor or role model who has made your UMaine experience better?
While many individuals have been excellent role models and examples for me in my time at UMaine, one in particular stands out. Professor (Donald) Hummels really resonated with me. He’s the chair of the electrical and computer engineering (ECE) department and is very approachable and welcoming. He does his best to tend to everyone’s needs, and cares for the whole of the person rather than just their grades or rank. His very human approach to education has made my experience meaningful.

In a different — but no less meaningful — way, Cindy Plourde, the ECE department secretary, has impacted me with her cheeriness and joy. She brightens up my day every day. It’s so nice to be part of a college where you’re known and valued.

Have you had an experience at UMaine that has changed or shaped the way you see the world?
I was a leading force in creating the IEEE Power and Energy Society student branch at UMaine, and this was a valuable and impactful experience for many reasons.

First, it empowered me by showing me how I can truly influence others and be a leader here at UMaine. It also shifted my perspective into a more professional outlook. I was no longer seeing just my own view, but looking at the industry as a whole and my place and role within that.

Describe UMaine in one word:
Home. I don’t think you can really contain UMaine in one word, but this comes pretty close. It’s a place where you’re welcomed, you belong — from the moment you drive up to campus freshman year with the “Hearty Maine Hello” to the moment you cross the stage at graduation and are handed the diploma. It’s a place where you grow, where you’re challenged, where you experience both joys and sorrows, where you’re raised. I don’t think you can really explain it all.

What is your most memorable UMaine moment?
While not a single moment or experience, my friendships at UMaine have definitely impacted me for the better and are memorable. Surrounded by vibrant, intelligent friends, my time here is worthwhile. I’ve recognized that not only have I received an education in a traditional sense of the word, I’ve also received an education in being a caring, courteous, involved person and that I owe to my friendships here.

What do you hope to do after graduation and how has UMaine helped you reach those goals?
Upon graduation, I will be working as a power system engineer in an excellent company, and it is my hope that I will make a positive impact upon the industry as a whole. Only a few months into my senior year, I’ve already been offered — and accepted — a position for post-graduation, which is a huge testament to the success of UMaine’s College of Engineering.

Have you participated in any internships or co-ops related to your major?
As a matter of fact, it was my internships that led to my job offer. I’ve held an internship position at RLC Engineering all three summers of my undergraduate studies. I worked as a systems studies engineer the first two summers and a protection and control engineer the third summer. All the material that I was taught in my classes played some role in my ability to hold that position with RLC.

What is the most interesting, engaging or helpful class you’ve taken at UMaine?
The most practical and helpful course I took at UMaine was ECE 427, Power Systems Analysis. It gave me the tools I needed to succeed in my internship. I felt prepared with adequate knowledge and competent doing my work having taken this class. It also gave me the most applicable information for the field in which I want to enter upon graduation.

What difference has UMaine made in your life?
The University of Maine has provided me an educational foundation that I might not have received anywhere else. It’s prepared me to be a professional in a demanding industry, and equipped me with the knowledge and skills I need to succeed. Personally, it’s helped me to grow and mature, to establish lifelong friendships, and widen my horizons.

Where will we find you in 10 years?
Hopefully in 10 years you’ll be able to find me making a difference in the electrical engineering community on both small and large scales. I hope to be succeeding as an electrical engineer, developing my professional skills and serving as an asset to my company. I hope to be an informed, involved citizen; a dedicated family member; and of course, a proud alum of the University of Maine.