Computer Engineering Scholar Tyler Jones: Engineering Creativity

From building circuits for fun to designing complex systems for museum exhibits, Tyler Jones has always had a passion for engineering. As a current computer engineering student, Jones chose Utah State University for its strong reputation and the chance to live independently. Now, with graduation on the horizon, he’s reflecting on the journey that’s shaped his path.

His interest in engineering started early.

“I remember being in elementary school and getting hooked on building circuits,” he said.

That love for taking things apart and figuring out how they worked stuck with him through high school, where he found himself drawn to both electrical and computer engineering. At the beginning of his academic career, he chose electrical engineering, but an interest in programming led him to switch to computer engineering — a decision that allowed him to combine his love of circuit-building with programming.

His specialization in embedded systems, which involves designing circuits that control hardware like cameras or washing machines, has been one of his most rewarding pursuits.

The biggest project he’s been involved with is FLIGHT: The Next Leg, a museum exhibit at The Leonardo in Salt Lake City. When one of his class projects was showcased by a professor, Jones’s name quickly circulated within the department and he was invited to join a senior design team working on the Leonardo exhibit. His role has been extensive, from programming circuits for the original design to collaborating on the exhibit’s mechanical and electronic aspects.

“It’s been amazing to see my work contribute to such a large project,” he said. “The project’s scope is huge, and I’ve enjoyed breaking it down into smaller tasks and seeing each part come together.”

Jones’s approach to problem-solving has grown along with his technical skills.

“When I’m stuck, I try to sleep on it. A lot of times, the answer will just come to me,” he said. This process of stepping back helps him handle the stress of tackling large projects.

Outside of academics, Jones enjoys working with computers, from building them to consulting on designs and creating circuit boards. When he’s not deep into engineering, he spends time with his wife and newborn, balancing family life with his academic pursuits.

For others in engineering, Jones encourages a hands-on approach.

“Jump in and start trying to do it,” he said. “You don’t have to understand every detail upfront. In high school, I was afraid of not knowing it all, but getting hands-on is the best way to learn.”