https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nl5UWQCsEWo&feature=youtu.be

On Wednesday, October 7th, the College of Engineering dedicated the Craig and Kathy Bowie Rocket Lounge.

Craig and Kathy Bowie, both UT alums, provided a substantial gift to start the Engineering Professional Development Fund.  This fund provides for the implementation of a public speaking and human relations module, based on the principles and practices advocated by Mr. Dale Carnegie. The purpose of this program is to help engineering students build greater self-confidence by improving their communication and leadership skills.   The new professional development program is geared towards helping students conduct themselves professionally and with confidence  in their co-ops and careers.

As part of the initial implementation, the College will offer each freshman the opportunity to participate in a specially designed, abbreviated Dale Carnegie training program to help prepare them for their future contributions in the corporate world. In honor of the gift from the Bowies, the College named the new student lounge after them. “This contribution of ours to the University is our way of saying thanks to the University that we both attended,” Bowie said at the dedication.

The idea for a new student lounge, located on the second floor of Nitschke Hall, arose from plans to expand the Engineering Career Development Center and undergraduate office area with the addition of a new conference room. The addition extended into the atrium of Nitschke Hall, providing additional floor space on the second floor. This space was transformed into a much needed space for students to gather, to study, and to relax between classes. It features plenty of desk and table space for working, many stations for charging phones and laptops, and comfortable seating for taking a break in between class and studying. This space belongs to students and caters to their needs.