New grad aspires to encourage the next generation of engineers

POSTED ON Jun 04, 2025

In early May, Texas Tech University announced the “2025 Tech 10,” a group of graduating seniors recognized for their excellence, leadership, service, and commitment.

This year’s cohort has an impressive collective GPA of 3.88.

The recognition was established in 2023 by the Texas Tech Office of Student Life and the Office of Academic Innovation & Student Success.

The honorees for 2025 include students majoring in computer engineering, biochemistry, microbiology, general studies, agricultural and applied economics, and industrial engineering.

Texas Tech Now, a magazine publication by Texas Tech University, also showcased a group of graduating seniors in its commencement section.

One standout story is that of Ivory Villegas, whose journey underscores the significance of hard work and dedication in achieving success.

Growing up, Ivory spent his childhood years working alongside family members, including his grandfather, a production foreman for an oil company.

Ivory is now graduating with a degree in petroleum engineering and has a job waiting for him in the oil and gas industry.

According to Texas Tech Now, Ivory faced challenges in his foundational engineering classes until he joined student chapters of the American Association of Drilling Engineers (AADE), the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), and the Society of Petroleum Engineers.

These organizations helped him become more engaged in his studies.

In the summer of 2023, he completed his first internship with an oil company, which allowed him to envision a successful career as a petroleum engineer.

Upon returning to campus, not only did Ivory’s grades improve, but he was also elected by his peers to serve as president of both the AADE and IADC for the spring of 2024.

Understanding the importance of helping introverted students like himself have meaningful college experiences, Ivory dedicated time and effort to assist others in feeling more comfortable and open.

After graduation, he looks forward to securing a full-time position in operations at an oilfield location.

Read more here about Ivory and his aspirations to encourage the next generation of engineers.