Leadership Role in Robotics Propels Zemichael Gebeyehu '24 Towards Apple
In the bustling world of technology, Zemichael Gebeyehu stands out as a rising star at Apple, where he works on intricate mechatronics and robotics problems. But his journey to this point was not a straight path.
A student at Lehigh University's P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science, graduating in '24, Gebeyehu initially planned to major in mechanical engineering and minor in aerospace engineering. However, his interests expanded during his time at Lehigh to include electrical engineering and economics.
Gebeyehu's academic pathway reflects a desire to gain interdisciplinary skills relevant to robotics and technology, broadening his expertise for career opportunities in aerospace and related fields, or perhaps a personal interest in economics to understand business aspects. While these factors are inferences, they provide insight into Gebeyehu's drive and ambition.
As a member of Tau Beta Pi, National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), African Students Association (ASA), and American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), Gebeyehu was actively involved in his college community. He led the Formula SAE Aerodynamics team and the Lehigh Underwater Robotics team, and served as the founder and president of Lehigh University's Space Initiative (LUSI).
Gebeyehu's passion for hands-on learning was evident at Lehigh. He was an undergraduate research assistant at the Unsteady Flow Laboratory, where he worked on cutting-edge projects. His experiential learning at Lehigh exposed him to various design problems, including Mars rovers, nanosatellites, underwater robots, and UAVs.
This practical approach to learning prepared Gebeyehu for his engineering career. After graduation, he was offered a job at Apple, where he currently holds the position of Robotics Engineer. The best thing about his job, Gebeyehu says, is working on impactful technologies and products that enrich people's lives.
A favorite memory of his time at Lehigh was when his university Space Initiative team was able to drive their Mars rover for the first time. It was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team, and a proud moment for Gebeyehu.
As Gebeyehu continues to make strides in the field of mechatronics and robotics, his story serves as an inspiration to current Lehigh students. He advises them to take advantage of experiential learning opportunities, including student teams and undergraduate research, to prepare for their own engineering careers.
[1] Source: Lehigh University News [2] Source: Forbes
- Gebeyehu's journey in the bustling world of technology, which led him to become a rising star at Apple, was fueled by his interdisciplinary education and research in science, technology, engineering, and education-and-self-development, as evidenced by his studies at Lehigh University.
- As a Robotics Engineer at Apple, Gebeyehu continues to apply the skills he gained from his academic and research experiences, including mechatronics and aerospace problems, to contribute to science and technology advancements, especially in robotics.
- Pursuing his passion for robotics and technology, Gebeyehu encourages current engineering students to engage in experiential learning, such as undergraduate research and student teams, as these opportunities will equip them with valuable skills essential for successful careers in science, technology, education, and self-development.
