Mitchell Steele maximized his Shocker journey. With multiple on- and off-campus internships, research opportunities and a featured role on Wichita State’s episode of “The College Tour,” Mitchell built a truly holistic and meaningful experience during his time here.
Mitchell is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2026 graduation. Learn more about his time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
What degree will you be earning in May?
Biomedical engineering with an emphasis in biomechanics and mechanobiology, as well as a minor in mathematics
What is your hometown?
Cosby, Missouri
What schools did you attend before coming to Wichita State?
St. Joseph Central High School
When you were a little kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
An open-heart surgeon
What made you choose Wichita State University?
I chose Wichita State because of its Innovation Campus and the unique opportunities it offers for hands-on experience. The campus stood out as a place where students can work directly with industry and apply what they are learning in real-world settings. In addition, the scholarship opportunities made it a practical and valuable choice for me. Overall, Wichita State provided the right combination of innovation, experience and support to help me grow both academically and professionally.
Did you receive any scholarships to attend Wichita State?
I received the Wallace Scholarship, which made it possible for me to attend Wichita State. Beyond the financial support, it gave me an immediate sense of community with my fellow scholars. Through that experience, I was also able to see Velma Wallace’s legacy firsthand, especially through the advisors and mentors who invested in me and truly cared about my growth. It had a lasting impact on both my college experience and my development as a student and professional.
What applied learning experiences did you participate in during your time here?
Throughout my time at Wichita State, I have taken on a variety of applied learning
experiences that have allowed me to grow — from hands-on prototyping into high-level
biomechanics and performance analysis.
I began working at GoCreate as a makerspace lab technician assistant, where I helped
students and community members bring their ideas to life using tools such as 3D printers,
laser cutters, and wood and metal shop equipment. This experience gave me a strong
foundation in design, fabrication and problem-solving.
I then joined the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) as an aerospace materials NDE research assistant, where I worked with industrial CT scanning systems to evaluate composite aircraft structures. I analyzed internal defects and damage progression in materials, contributing to safety-critical aerospace research.
Following that, I interned at the Smart Factory by Deloitte @ Wichita, where I supported operations in a live, production-scale manufacturing environment. I worked with emerging technologies, helped improve workflows, and delivered technical demonstrations to industry partners, including Fortune 500 executives.
In addition, I have spent multiple seasons working with the Kansas City Chiefs as part of the field crew, supporting live NFL game-day operations. This role has allowed me to operate in high-pressure, fast-paced environments while coordinating with large teams to execute nationally televised events.
Currently, I serve as the Motion Assessment Lab Coordinator at Wichita State, where I analyze biomechanical data using marker-less motion capture, force plates and EMG to assess injury risk and performance in Division I student-athletes. I work closely with coaches, athletic trainers and researchers to translate complex data into actionable insights that directly impact training and return-to-play decisions.
These experiences have been instrumental in allowing me to apply what I learn in the classroom to real-world settings, while developing both technical expertise and professional skills across multiple industries.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
Get involved and put yourself out there. Go meet people — whether that means sitting by someone new in the café or starting a conversation with someone you think is interesting. Most people are more open to talking than you think. Also, make an effort to connect with people who challenge you, especially professors. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or reach out for guidance.
At the end of the day, connections are everything. Your grades and coursework matter, but the relationships you build and the experiences you pursue outside the classroom are what truly shape your college experience and open doors for the future.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am currently in the interview process for a few positions, including opportunities with Medtronic and Cleveland Golf. I have also applied to a variety of other roles, all centered around engineering, performance and innovation. Ultimately, I am looking to pursue a career in biomechanics where I can combine my background in engineering, human performance and data analysis to make a meaningful impact.
Fun question: You suddenly find yourself in the middle of a dance battle. What's the first move you're gonna hit 'em with?
I’m pulling a friend in with me right away, and we’re hitting some partner moves. If it really comes down to it though, I’ve got the worm in my back pocket.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 25,000 students between its main campus and the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student-centered and innovation-driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry- and defense-funded engineering R&D and No. 9 overall for engineering R&D.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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