Marie Kasprzyk's favorite book, "Turbomachinery Rotordynamics with Case Studies," was written by Dr. Dara W. Childs. Childs '68 is an emeritus professor and the director of the Turbomachinery Laboratory from 1984 to 2018. Inspired by his work, Kasprzyk is carving her path as a graduate research assistant in this lab.
"Some of the best rotordynamicist come from the Turbomachinery Laboratory," said Kasprzyk. "Being able to work here is an honor. You learn from the best of the best, especially since Dr. Childs really made turbomachinery what it is today."
Rotordynamics is the study of mechanics relating to rotating machinery, such as jet engines or centrifugal compressors. Kasprzyk became intrigued by this topic the first time she saw a steam turbine.
"They were amazing at first sight," said Kasprzyk. "I took mechanical vibrations at the University of Central Florida (UCF), and I enjoyed the topic. That's when I began heading towards turbomachinery."
Kasprzyk graduated with her bachelor's in mechanical engineering from UCF in 2013 and began working as a reliability engineer at a chemical plant. Kasprzyk continued, earning her master's degree in 2017 while working full-time. During her senior year at UCF, Dr. Suhada Jayasuriya recommended Texas A&M University to Kasprzyk due to her interest in turbomachinery and the lab's excellent opportunities.
Having brought her passion to Texas A&M, Kasprzyk’s expectations were exceeded by the turbomachinery program.
"I feel like I have received the best education I could have asked for in rotordynamics," said Kasprzyk. "Texas A&M offers all the resources possible. The department supports you, and they hire the best professors that provide wonderful research opportunities."
Dr. Adolfo Delgado, an associate professor, is Kasprzyk's advisor. According to Delgado, Kasprzyk's attitude and experience have significantly impacted the lab and those around her.
"She is a role model to many students at the Turbomachinery Laboratory," said Delgado. "She upholds the highest standards of safety and professionalism. She is an outstanding mechanical engineer and the best designer in my research group. Marie is the go-to person for any questions regarding the design, modeling, installation and commissioning of rotordynamic test rigs and rotating equipment."