Max Byrd

Howdy! My name is Max Byrd, and I’m a recent mechanical engineering graduate from Texas A&M University. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I developed a deep fascination with the emergence and advancement of modern technologies, particularly within the semiconductor industry. For my senior capstone design project with NOVA, I worked with a team to redesign the anode block of an X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) machine, achieving a significant reduction in anode temperatures during thermal testing. An XPS machine is a key device used for semiconductor metrology. After the conclusion of our project, I was invited to travel to NOVA’s facility in California to present to executives and tour their operations, further sparking my interest in the semiconductor industry.

My professional journey began with an internship at ENERCON Services, where I worked on a mock Broad Range Gas Monitor replacement project for the Waterford 3 nuclear plant. I collaborated with a cross-functional team of mechanical, electrical, and civil interns, and we ultimately pitched our solution to the client, Entergy, at the end of the internship.

The following summer, I joined Kimley-Horn as a civil engineering intern, where I focused on land development and utilized AutoCAD Civil 3D to draft a variety of site plans. The most valuable part of this experience was shadowing project managers, joining contractor and city meetings, and performing site visits, which gave me firsthand insight into how complex projects are executed beyond just the technical work.

While I decided not to pursue careers in the nuclear or civil sectors, these internships gave me clarity and highlighted my adaptability in the workplace. They showed me that I thrive most when I'm working with people rather than just sitting behind the numbers. My interests lie more in leadership and communication than in deep technical specialization. That insight has led me to my current path, where I am now pursuing an MBA at Mays Business School to build the business acumen and managerial skills needed to succeed in leadership roles.

Outside the classroom, I’ve grown my leadership and communication through involvement with extracurriculars. As a site leader for the 2024 Big Event, I led a community service project and adapted quickly when facing challenges, such as team members dropping out last minute. As a Chapter Builder Captain for Pi Kappa Alpha, I honed my relationship-building skills by interacting with hundreds of students across five semesters.

Ultimately, my goal is to secure a role that allows me to apply my engineering background while focusing on leadership and collaboration. I’m excited to take on opportunities at the intersection of engineering and business, where I can connect people, technology, and strategy to deliver a real impact.

Thank you for your time—I look forward to continuing this conversation and exploring how I can contribute to your team