Engineering a Path to the Future: Meet 2026 PNW graduate Malina Harris

A combination of building blocks, STEM kits and time spent observing her father led Malina Harris (BS ’26) to a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology in the College of Technology at Purdue University Northwest (PNW).

As a child, Harris gravitated towards creative and hands-on learning activities, like LEGOs and STEM kits. Her early curiosity was further piqued when her father would occasionally bring her on job sites and allow her to watch as he worked on technical jobs.

“My first look at the big pieces of equipment really fascinated me,” says Harris. “As I got older, I knew that engineering was the route for me. I found out early on that I wanted to focus on the application-side of engineering and chose mechanical engineering technology, a more hands-on approach.”

Early in her college career at PNW, Harris was a member of the Society of Women Engineers, an organization that provided her with professional development opportunities, like conferences, networking events and career fairs.  As a first-generation college student, she was a member of TRIO. She was also a member of the Invisible Strings Orchestra Club at PNW.

In addition, the Indianapolis, Indiana, native assisted with the re-chartering of the PNW chapter of the NAACP, where she first served as vice president and then president of the organization. She was vice president of the Fluid Power Club, program chair for the National Society of Black Engineers, and a member of PNW Baja Racing and the Black Student Union.

During her time at PNW, she presented at several Days of Discovery Symposiums, including projects on heat treatment labs and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). A member of the Honors College, Harris was a peer mentor and teaching assistant. She also completed two internships, one at Collins Aerospace in Santa Fe Springs, California, and the other at Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc., in Michigan City, Indiana.

Harris is actively looking for a position in the mechanical engineering field. In the future, she plans to pursue a graduate degree in process improvement or business administration.

How do you think your involvement in campus organization and activities helped define your success at PNW?

“All of my experiences have definitely built character. I’ve gained skills in networking, leadership and professionalism while learning to be a good and accountable person.”

What did you like most about PNW?

“What I loved most was the growth and adaptability of the university. It’s constantly evolving, whether through building new dorms, improvements in student programs and just overall student life on campus. Campus-wide, PNW helps build opportunities and meaningful connections for students. I also liked the support system and available resources for students, like TRIO, TRIO McNair, the Tutoring Center and the Counseling Center. I was nice to know resources are available and free to students.”

What did you like most about the Mechanical Engineering Technology program at PNW?

“I definitely loved the camaraderie and the strong sense of support from both the professors and my peers. The professors, advisors and staff encouraged us to take advantage of growth opportunities and always shared information on job and internship opportunities. I also appreciated the focus on application and hands-on learning; I was able to understand the ‘why’ while focusing on the ‘how.’”

Did you have a pivotal experience while attending PNW?

“I play the saxophone and during my first year on campus I was a member of the Invisible Strings Orchestra Club at PNW. We accompanied the PNW Theatre Organization’s production of A Christmas Carol and played at an art gallery in Hammond. I really loved participating and building memories.”

What words of advice would you share with prospective students looking to attend PNW?

“Find where you want to go and start building those steps early. Use your time here to create a path for yourself once you graduate. There are so many resources here at your disposal, you just need to go out and get them.”

Was there anyone at PNW who inspired or encouraged you along the way?

Jesus De La Cruz

lecturer of engineering technology

Edward Vavrek

Associate Professor of mechanical engineering technology

“There were two people who stood out, Jesus De La Cruz and Edward Vavrek. They both go above and beyond by getting involved with students through projects, advising, mentoring and student organizations.”