Mechanical Engineering Major on His Path to Success at Alabama A&M University

Jarrett Davis, a graduating mechanical engineering major at Alabama A&M University, will soon take his place at the forefront of technological innovation as a Test Engineer in Autonomy and Automation with Caterpillar, Inc. in Peoria, Illinois. The Mobile, Alabama, native begins his role with the global leader in construction and mining equipment on June 2, following a successful internship with the company last summer.

“As a test engineer in autonomy and automation, I will be exploring and innovating the future of autonomous machines,” Davis said.

Davis arrived at Alabama A&M on a prestigious Presidential Scholarship and quickly immersed himself in campus life, serving in numerous leadership roles within the Honors Program, where he was Historian, Parliamentarian, and most recently, New Member Representative. He also
co-founded the VEX Robotics Registered Student Organization in 2022 and was active in the College Democrats as a Senator, the Baptist Student Ministries, and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

He said his decision to come to The Hill was both personal and purposeful.

“I chose Alabama A&M University for several reasons,” Davis explained. “Along with the full-ride from the Presidential Scholarship, I was interested in aerospace and felt Huntsville – also known as The Rocket City – was a great place to be. My brother, Jarvis Davis, attended AAMU and had already connected me with many people, and I knew Board of Trustees member Kevin Ball. I knew I could always rely on him if I ever had any issues.”

Looking back on his time on campus, Davis reflects on the relationships and environment that shaped his college experience.

“I will miss my friends, the food, the closeness of everything – school, work, home. I’ll miss our spontaneous get-togethers where we’d play games, listen to music, and talk about life,” he said. “I’ll especially miss the professors who not only supported us academically, but also encouraged us in our internships, scholarships, and personal goals.”

Davis’s professional ambition is matched by his desire to uplift others. His ultimate goal, he says, is “to be the best engineer I can be and inspire people to pursue the best version of themselves.”

He carries with him the University’s motto, “Service is Sovereignty,” as a guiding principle.

“Everybody has different desires, priorities, and passions,” said Davis. “It's important that we know ourselves so we don't get lost in what everybody else wants, and it's also important we truly get to know others so we know how we can best be of service to them. There's a fine balance of pursuing your dreams and helping others reach theirs.”

(Photo by Keith Scott)