Engineering student inspired to improve safety in transportation

Engineering student inspired to improve safety in transportation

Oluwaseun Adekoya is pursuing a doctorate in mechanical engineering

Oluwaseun Adekoya dreamed of becoming a pilot when he was young. After a series of plane crashes in his home country of Nigeria, his passion shifted from piloting planes to improving the safety of transportation. Adekoya opted to continue his educational journey at the College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Cincinnati through the doctoral program in mechanical engineering.

Recently, he was named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month for his hard work and dedication.

Why did you choose UC? What drew you here?

I earned my bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the Federal University of Technology in Akure, Nigeria, graduating at the top of the class with first-class honors. Pursuing a graduate degree was the next logical step in achieving my goals and aspirations.

I explored various local funding opportunities and scholarships and was able to benefit from the EducationUSA's Opportunity Funds Program. I decided to apply to the University of Cincinnati, partly because an older friend and mentor had already begun his doctoral program here.

As I began researching UC, I discovered that this prestigious university is renowned for its cutting-edge research and strong industry connections (which I have consistently benefited from), making it the ideal place for me to advance my education and career goals.

Why did you choose your field of study?

Briefly describe your research work. Why does it inspire you?

My career path has been somewhat unconventional, and my passion for research was sparked during an intriguing conversation with my undergraduate colleagues about major technological advancements across the globe.

One of my friends mentioned that self-driving cars were becoming commercially available in the United States, and this reignited my commitment to addressing safety and accident challenges in the mechanical and aerospace industries. I realized that collaborating with academic experts, professional industrialists, and senior faculty members would equip me with the tools to actively contribute to the design and development of systems capable of making accurate, autonomous decisions.

My research focuses on the design of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle powertrains. This work is driven by the dual motivations of energy security and environmental sustainability. Transportation accounts for approximately 29% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by economic sector and electricity end-use.

By developing efficient solution strategies for PHEV powertrains, my research seeks to benefit end-users, consumers, utilities, industries and manufacturers, while also reducing emissions and addressing climate change.

Additionally, I work closely with my adviser to improve the design of self-driving cars, focusing on their performance in dynamic and uncertain environments and conditions. My work includes enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities and from underprivileged communities, ensuring that these vehicles are safe and reliable. This interdisciplinary research integrates knowledge from engineering, business, industrial design, and policy formulation, allowing me to make meaningful contributions toward sustainable and innovative transportation solutions.

What are some of the most impactful experiences during your time at UC?

Beyond academics, I have actively contributed to the UC community through leadership roles and participation in various student organizations.

As a member of UC's chapter of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, I have played a pivotal role in leading design projects, organizing coding bootcamps and coordinating events such as the yearly MakeUC Hackathon.

My service on the UC Graduate Student Awards and Compensation Committee has allowed me to advocate for graduate students' needs, bringing about a more supportive environment for my peers.

My dedication to excellence has been recognized through several awards and honors, including scholarships from the National Society of Black Engineers, the National Science Foundation and UC's Office of Research.

I serve as the mechanical chair of the Mechanical and Materials Engineering Graduate Student Association and actively contribute to the UC Bearcat Solar Car team as a fundraiser.

I work closely with UC International, assisting new international students in settling smoothly into the UC community. Previously, I mentored undergraduate scholars under the McNair Scholarship Program, helping them navigate their academic and research journeys. I also previously served as the media chair of the highly prestigious UC Nigerian Students Association.

These experiences have not only strengthened my leadership and technical skills but have also reinforced my commitment to mentorship and promoting diversity in STEM. I look forward to continuing to make an impact as a mentor, advocate and contributor to the growth of our UC community.

What are a few of your accomplishments of which you are most proud?

One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is leveraging my programming expertise to mentor students through the Aerospace Special Interest Group of NSBE. I was honored to be selected as a volunteer mentor for two teams in the Build a CubeSat Challenge, hosted by NSBE and Beaver Works Summer Institute. This experience allowed me to transfer my knowledge of intensive Python programming and project development to these talented students. I was thrilled when one of my mentor teams achieved second place nationally, a moment that reaffirmed the value of mentorship and collaboration in strengthening STEM education.

Another accomplishment that holds a special place in my heart is advancing the work of my social enterprise, Get Educated Get a Skill Africa, during my time in the U.S. Through my involvement with the UC Center for Public Engagement with Science, I received the prestigious Engaging Science Fellowship and was positioned to work with CEAS Associate Dean Whitney Gaskins' foundation in the summer of 2024. This opportunity enabled me to curate an art gallery and successfully execute the Empowering Parents in Community Churches STEMulation Program, which brought STEM education and inspiration to underserved communities. These experiences have rekindled my passion for using STEM as a tool for empowerment and community development.

When do you expect to graduate? What are your plans after earning your degree?

I plan to defend my doctoral dissertation in the summer of 2026. I intend to pursue a career in research or industry, focusing on the development of closed-loop combined optimal control and design strategies. These strategies will enable more informed decisions regarding the performance and efficiency of integrated systems.

My ultimate objective is to contribute to cutting-edge scientific advancements, either in an academic setting where I can mentor the next generation of engineers and researchers, or in a high-tech industry environment driving innovation and real-world applications.

Do you have any other hobbies or involvements you'd like to share?

I have a deep passion for soccer. I enjoy watching and playing the game. I am also a skilled pianist and I enjoy making and using music to inspire and uplift others.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at UC has been the relationships and connections I have built. The friendships, mentorships, and alliances I have made as a graduate student have been invaluable, and I will always cherish the sense of community and support that UC has afforded me.

Featured image at top: Oluwaseun Adekoya is a doctoral student in mechanical engineering. Photo/provided

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