No two days are the same for Science Support Engineer Tyler McDonough. On any given day, he could be called on to repair a broken instrument for one of the science labs or construct an entirely new apparatus for a summer research student’s experiment. A graduate of Cal Poly, McDonough worked for a medical device company helping surgeons use cranial and spinal implants before coming to Puget Sound. He uses that experience to come up with innovative mechanical solutions—like designing a pollen collector that utilizes a layer of mesh on the end of a vacuum cleaner.
In addition to being a resource for faculty and students, McDonough also oversees the university’s machine shop, wood shop, and electronics troubleshooting shop. When he’s not tinkering in the lower levels of Harned Hall, he enjoys playing soccer, cycling, hiking, backpacking, and kayaking.
“I love to be creative and to use my hands, so it’s been great guiding students and faculty members through design and prototyping to build something that can help them with their research.”
