Connor Roddy is walking out of the lab and into the courtroom.
Roddy is the first Engineering Law program student from the Department of Multidisciplinary Engineering to be accepted into the Texas A&M University School of Law. This combination degree program allows students to obtain a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary engineering and a Juris Doctor degree in six years instead of the standard seven. As an aspiring patent attorney, Roddy appreciates the relationship between engineering and law.
“I enjoy learning about the world around me and how technological advancements are made,” said Roddy. “The aspect of law that interests me is protecting the ideas and advancements of engineers. These subjects overlap in a unique way because there is a fine line between sharing ideas for technological advancements and protecting ideas for the creator.”
As a participant in the program, students spend three years learning about engineering and technology as a precursor to three years of study and law practice. His degree is in interdisciplinary engineering, specializing in mechanical and electrical engineering.
“Classes in the College of Engineering taught me about engineering theory and how the world works while also putting these teachings into applications,” said Roddy. “I have yet to take a law class, but I am excited about the future experience. After I graduate, I hope to work in patent prosecution to gain experience in the legal field and eventually move into the field of patent litigation.”
Dr. Timothy Jacobs, interim department head for the Department of Multidisciplinary Engineering, is excited about this accomplishment and is looking forward to the future of the program.
“Engineering Law promises to be the smoothest and most effective path for a student to follow their passions from engineering, to law, to law practice,” said Jacobs. “I’m excited that the program offers Connor the opportunity to pursue his dreams, align himself with the best engineering and law programs in the state of Texas and strengthen his desires to have the societal impact he endeavors to have.”
Roddy will begin taking classes through the School of Law for the second portion of the program in the fall.
“As the first person accepted into the School of Law through the Engineering Law program, I am thankful to those who have worked to make this program possible,” said Roddy. “I am very excited about being a part of the program. Graduating a year earlier than expected will allow me to start my career faster than the traditional plan.”