This award provides students with full tuition for up to five years, mentorship, summer internships, a stipend and full-time employment with the Department of Defense after graduation.

Katye Berry, an undergraduate student, and James P. Carmichael, a Ph.D. student, both in the University of Kentucky College of Engineering, were awarded the Department of Defense Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship. 

This unique opportunity offers students hands-on experience at one of over 200 innovative laboratories across the Army, Navy, Air Force and larger Department of Defense. 

SMART scholars work directly with an experienced mentor during summer internships, gaining valuable technical skills. After graduation, Carmichael will work at the Naval Surface Warfare Center - Crane Division in Crane, Indiana.   

Carmichael is currently studying electrical and computer engineering, with a focus on machine learning applied to power systems, said, "Receiving the SMART Scholarship is a tremendous honor, and I look forward to this opportunity to provide service to our country while representing the University of Kentucky."

Berry, who is currently studying Biosystems Engineering and Civil Engineering, with a focus in Environmental Engineering, said, "This award will provide me with an invaluable opportunity to learn and grow with some of the best scientists and engineers in the country. I'm so excited to be able to learn from them and gain experience in a field that I am passionate about." 

The Department of Defense is committed to developing the Nation's STEM talent. It is the largest employer of federal scientists and engineers with nearly 150,000 civilian STEM employees working across the Department. DoD STEM activities support this mission by providing authentic learning experiences through various education and outreach initiatives, such as the SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program. For over a decade, SMART has trained a highly-skilled STEM workforce that competes with the evolving industry trends to support the next generation of science and technology for our nation.

For more information on the SMART Program or to learn how students can apply, please visit www.smartscholarship.org. The application is open annually from August through December.