Veteran, Business Owner and Transfer Student Chooses Point Park for Mechanical Engineering

Meet Brett Schneggenburger

Job Title & Employer: Business Owner, NVGTN
Major/Program: Mechanical Engineering
Minor: Biological Sciences and Chemistry
Graduation: May 2019
College Activities: Entrepreneurship and LECOM Early Acceptance Program
Scholarships: Transfer and Veterans
Hometown: Erie, Pa.
High School: Harbor Creek High School
Now Living In: North Shore of Pittsburgh
Dream Job: Business Owner
Hobbies & Interests: Fitness, design, business, medicine, finance and military

"My engineering classes have definitely helped me in my current job as a business owner. Throughout my studies, I’ve developed a level of engineering design capability that now allows me to learn any design software 10 times faster than I would have been able to previously do."

Brett Schneggenburger

As a veteran, what made Point Park University stand out to you?

After deciding to transfer from Air Force Active Duty to the Pittsburgh Air National Guard, I was looking for a school close to my new base. Point Park University was not only the closest, but the faculty and staff went above and beyond in getting me transitioned into my first semester. Point Park has a spot on campus for veterans, they host military events and they have a great VA advisor who is there for me with whatever I need.

Why did you choose to major in mechanical engineering?

In the military, I was a jet engine technician, working primarily on F-16 fighter jets and KC-135 refueler aircraft. I received an associate degree in aviation maintenance technology while on active duty so Point Park’s mechanical engineering program ended up being a great fit. Many of the things I worked on and studied in the military translated flawlessly into the mechanical engineering program.

Have your engineering classes helped you in the work you do?

My engineering classes have definitely helped me in my current job as a business owner. Throughout my studies, I’ve developed a level of engineering design capability that now allows me to learn any design software 10 times faster than I would have been able to previously do.

Pictured is veteran and mechanical engineering student Brett Schneggenburger.

Problem solving in mechanical engineering is another great tool to have in everyday life. With any business, logistics in general can go wrong fast, and you need to be able to handle anything that comes your way. My studies at Point Park have given me the confidence to do just that.

What are your career goals after graduation?

My career goals after graduation were originally to study bio-printing in a master’s program or follow up my undergraduate degree with medical school. However, my health and fitness business has been doing great so all of my efforts will be put into that. If I can turn our six-figure business into a seven-figure business, I’ll be one happy camper.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I think Point Park University is a great choice for anyone, especially veterans. In the military, we’re subject to a very high-paced lifestyle. Point Park transitions that lifestyle well, providing constant excitement along with a location in Downtown Pittsburgh that you can’t beat.

Veteran, Business Owner and Transfer Student Chooses Point Park for Mechanical Engineering Student Profile