Benjamin Bequette

Indiana State University senior Benjamin Bequette has a knack for building things with his hands and he found the perfect place to put those skills to use in the College of Technology’s computer engineering technology program.

A native of Edwardsville, Ill., Bequette decided to major in computer engineering technology major with minors in automation and control engineering technology and electrical engineering technology around his sophomore year of high school.

“I went on vacation with uncle, who is a consultant with his own IT agency, and he wanted to replace a hard drive on a computer he was gifting my family so he let me install the hard drive,” Bequette said. “I found myself enjoying it. He sent me another old computer and I installed new components. It was because of this that I was able to get a good understanding of how a computer works. Then, I started taking classes when I got to Indiana State and I found myself enjoying building circuits as well as working with robots. I plan on pursuing my master’s here in automation due to my experiences with learning and the engaging faculty.”

At State, Bequette is vice president of health and safety with the Interfraternity Council, a member of and Bible study leader for Delta Sigma Phi fraternity and serves as vice president for the student chapter of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

“Indiana State’s small class sizes appealed to me because I was looking for a more engaging learning experience in which I could interact with the instructors to better understand the material,” Bequette said. “My campus experiences have prepared me for my professional career by providing me with leadership experience. Being a part of my organization have also helped me to better my communication skills, which will be essential in the workforce.”

Throughout the academic year and summer, Bequette conducts research with Jared Wuerzburger, assistant professor in the College of Technology. He will also serve as a supplemental instruction leader this fall.

“I want to get as much out of the college experience while I’m here and use my time in a productive way. I’ve gained a lot of leadership experience through college and I’ve grown as a leader – a position I didn’t view myself being in before,” said Bequette, who plans to continue his studies by working on a graduate degree in mechatronics or similar field. “Indiana State University to me is an opportunity to grow as an individual. It has helped mold me into a better leader and I am ever thankful for that.”