Engineering alum named to ’30 Under 30’ list

Forbes has named Chris Tyler, a 2015 mechanical engineering Ph.D. graduate of the Lee College of Engineering, to its 2016 30 Under 30 list.

Tyler, 29, is now working for Boeing Research and Technology (BR&T) in St. Louis, Mo., as a materials process engineer. A specialist in hard-to-machine materials, Tyler did his research work in precision engineering at UNC Charlotte. For his doctoral thesis, he created a database of the ideal conditions for milling based on the type of material. He also helped optimize the shape of wings on flapping wing vehicles to produce the greatest amount of thrust.

From an initial screening list of more than 15,000 of the best of the best, Forbes named 600 of America’s most important young entrepreneurs, creative leaders and brightest stars to its fifth annual 30 Under 30 lists. Tyler was selected in the manufacturing and industry category.

At Boeing, Tyler is working to improve machining processes and the capabilities of commercial and defense aircraft components.

“I am always applying my background in advanced manufacturing technologies to strive toward continuous process improvements and innovation,” Tyler said. “I can’t thank my graduate advisor, Dr. Tony Schmitz, and the UNC Charlotte faculty and staff enough for providing me with the knowledge and experience that helped me earn my career and the Forbes 30 under 30 honor.”