One Man’s Vision Transforms Kenyan School

Lucas Mallison could have chosen a traditional career path after graduating from NC State. Instead, he joined the Peace Corps.“At the time I had to make a decision about what to do after graduating, I was slightly turned off from culture in America and wanted to avoid working in a corporate industrial environment if I could,” Mallison said. He viewed the Peace Corps as a chance to serve others, live in a rural community and gain valuable experience.

Now, Mallison teaches math and physics at a school in Kenya. However his most ambitious project builds on his industrial engineering background. He is leading an effort to create a computer lab to revolutionize how students access technology. “Although my primary job is to teach, the tools I learned for my degree have been most applicable in designing and managing the computer lab project at our school,” Mallison explained.

The project requires extensive planning and preparation. The Peace Corps demands that all steps, budgets and community contributions are finalized before funding approval. Mallison relies on his engineering training to overcome these challenges. “At this stage in the project, the most pertinent skills have been organizational skills, technical writing and the ability to network effectively,” he said.

Kanton Reynolds, ISE’s director of undergraduate programs, emphasized how the curriculum prepares students for global challenges. “The variety of our curriculum and the opportunities students have to take on unique challenges prepare them for impactful roles like this. When students can customize their degree program to their interests using the flexibility of our technical electives, they can be significant contributors even faster in their chosen vocations,” Reynolds said.

Mallison’s engineering training from NC State played a crucial role in shaping this project. His ability to break complex tasks into manageable steps and collaborate with others has been key. “Of the dozen teachers at the school, the principal and I delegated early project roles to three of them related to fund management, record keeping and monitoring and evaluation,” Mallison shared. These roles ensured the project remained efficient and accountable.

Reynolds also highlighted how the department encourages global thinking. “We have courses like ISE 413 – Humanitarian Logistics which allow students to address disaster management and make impactful decisions for affected areas. The engineering education minor combined with short courses from the Data Science Academy gives our students tools to meet global challenges including education and computer literacy in meaningful ways,” Reynolds added.

Despite these early successes, Mallison still faces challenges. Raising the necessary funds is the most significant obstacle. “While the Peace Corps supplies part of the funding, a large portion must also come from outside donors,” Mallison noted. However, he remains optimistic. The school’s rapid growth and the principal’s dedication inspire him. “Since his and my coming to the school, the population has more than doubled,” Mallison said.

Mallison believes the project offers more than just access to computers. His experiences reveal the power of engineering to solve real-world problems. “Living and working in a poor school in a developing country gives a valuable perspective on the resources and institutions we have in the U.S.,” he said. The computer lab could drive change as Kenya adopts a new competency-based curriculum.

Reynolds strongly encourages global engagement for students interested in combining engineering with humanitarian work. “I would strongly recommend students participate in study abroad programs in emerging countries like Rwanda, Malawi or Kenya. Initiatives like Engineers Without Borders or the Alternative Service Break – Rwanda program for COE students provide invaluable experience. Educational opportunities such as the Engineering Education minor or the Global One-Health initiative also help prepare students for meaningful contributions,” Reynolds said.

Mallison’s determination and education demonstrate how technology and teamwork can uplift communities. “This computer lab project has a high potential for success if we achieve enough funding,” he said. His work showcases how engineering can empower people, solve problems and create a better future.

Reynolds reflected on Mallison’s impact. “More of our students are committed to using their engineering talents to improve the lives of others. It’s a noble and worthwhile pursuit and we want to encourage them by providing opportunities and skills to make meaningful contributions to society,” Reynolds said.

Mallison’s journey illustrates how engineering and service can inspire change and build a brighter future.