Building connections // Show Me Mizzou // University of Missouri

Dec. 11, 2023
Contact: Deidra Ashley, ashleyde@missouri.edu

Trent Foster was destined to become an engineer. The O’Fallon, Missouri, native spent much of his youth tearing things apart and putting them back together — all in pursuit of understanding how they work. Beginning with pens and pencils, Foster advanced to studying video game controllers and gaming systems by the time he was 15.

Growing up, Foster also enjoyed joining his father and grandfather — electricians — on house calls, making it a perfect fit when he decided to pursue dual degrees in electrical and computer engineering along with an Honors Certificate.

After graduation, Foster is headed to Kansas City, where he’s already landed a job as a software developer for global navigation brand Garmin.

Read on for a Q&A with Foster about his Mizzou experience.

What was your favorite thing about campus?

My favorite thing about campus is the people. I’ve met so many people and made connections in different areas because of this. These relationships — especially with the people I’ve met through the National Society of Black Engineers, who I consider as my family on campus — have helped me learn a lot about myself and where other people come from. I think Mizzou was the perfect place for me to grow as a person.

What was your favorite class?

My favorite class was computer architecture. It was taught by my favorite professor here at the College of Engineering, Ekincan Ufuktepe. Even though the course material was new, everyone in the class knew each other and the professor. Due to the small class size, we were able to have deep conversations about computers and learn a lot from one another during those discussions.

Why are you proud to be a Tiger?

I'm proud to be a Mizzou Tiger because of the community it comes with. I mean, you can't walk down the street in Tigers gear without having someone yell M-I-Z at you. It's good to know there are always friendly faces around.

What would you tell someone who's interested in coming to Mizzou?

There are lots of different resources for you to be successful here. One that I used a lot during my freshman year was the MU Learning Center. First, I needed a tutor, and then I worked there later as a tutor. If you’re ever unsure of where to start, talk with your advisor.