Caelan Mead-O’Brien, the undergraduate student speaker for the 2026 spring commencement, was enabled to come into his own personally, professionally, and academically during his time at Michigan Tech. As he prepares to graduate with a degree in environmental engineering, Mead-O’Brien recalls his first impressions of Michigan Tech, and the way his time in Houghton has helped him to learn, grow, and lead.
Though he was originally hesitant to move so far from his hometown of Okemos, Michigan, Mead-O’Brien quickly found his place in the Keweenaw.
“I really struggled to make a college decision because I wasn’t sure what I wanted out of the experience, or even what I wanted to study,” he said. “I toured Michigan Tech my senior year of high school and liked the school, although I wasn’t entirely comfortable with moving eight hours away from home. That changed pretty quickly once I got here.”
“I love the balance of a school that’s large enough to offer world-class academic programs, but small enough that you can see familiar faces on your way to class.”
— Caelan Mead-O’Brien ‘26, Michigan Tech
Mead-O’Brien said the wonder of his surroundings has been a major influence during his time at Tech.
“Many of my favorite memories are tied to the natural beauty of the Keweenaw—exploring ice formations in Copper Harbor on a minus 20-degree snow day, watching the northern lights at Breaker’s Beach with friends, or visiting Covered Drive and Brockway Mountain during peak fall colors,” he said.
“There’s so much natural beauty here, and it’s a unique place to live that most people never get to experience. I chose environmental engineering because it felt like the best way of addressing human needs while also taking care of the natural environment.”
Mead-O’Brien’s environmental interests led him to an internship with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), where he interned as a student assistant engineer.
“I have had the opportunity to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in the field,” he said of his time with EGLE. “My work has included permitting water mains for distribution systems and participating in inspections of water towers, treatment plants, pump houses, and wells alongside EGLE’s district engineers. This experience has really complemented my academic work well, as concepts from the classroom directly inform my understanding of the real systems I see at work, and vice versa.”
During his work with EGLE, Mead-O’Brien developed an interest in drinking water systems, their impacts on human health, and the long-term sustainability of water supplies. This led to his decision to return to Michigan Tech to pursue a master’s degree in civil engineering, with a focus on water resources.
“I hope to continue working to ensure Michiganders have access to clean, reliable drinking water, in whatever role I end up in,” he added.
Outside of the classroom, Mead-O’Brien dedicated his time to serving the Husky community. After spending three years as a resident assistant, he plans to return for a fourth year as he completes his master’s degree.
“The experience has taught me a lot about the importance of having a supportive community. Moving away from home, taking challenging classes, and finding where you belong are some of the hardest parts of college, and resident assistants get to play a role in helping students navigate that adjustment.” said Mead-O’Brien.
For him, the most rewarding part of the position has been seeing his residents grow over time.
“Watching students develop confidence, build relationships, and become more engaged in their environment has been especially meaningful. I’m also grateful for the Michigan Tech Residential Living staff community, which has been an important source of growth in my life, as well as many great friends,” he said.
He has also taken on several roles within Keweenaw Youth for Climate Action (KYCA), a student activism group that encourages private organizations and the public to take action to address climate change. Mead-O’Brien served as the group’s secretary before taking on the role of vice president in his third year. He has also been heavily involved in KYCA’s fossil fuel divestment campaign.
“I was motivated by the importance of addressing climate change and my desire to contribute in a meaningful way,” he said.
Mead-O’Brien is also an avid runner who transitioned from competing in high school track and cross country events to completing several half and full marathons. He says training for the endurance events taught him about discipline and trusting in the process to achieve a goal.
“Preparing for a marathon means putting in consistent, demanding work over several months, often in less than ideal conditions,” he said. “What stands out most is that you put in all that effort without knowing exactly what the outcome will be on race day. It’s a lesson in delayed gratification and in trusting that consistent hard work will pay off over time, even when you can’t always see the progress happening.”
As he reflected on both his personal and professional success at Michigan Tech, Mead-O’Brien made sure to mention he didn’t do it alone.
“Tech is challenging, yet supportive, and absolutely worth the effort. And of course, enjoy your time here. It really does fly by.”
— Caelan Mead-O’Brien ‘26, undergraduate student speaker, 2026 Spring Commencement
I’m a strong believer that no one finds success on their own, and that achievement at Michigan Tech, and in life, is made possible by the support of an entire community,” Mead-O’Brien said. “I’m very grateful for the many individuals who have contributed to my success at Michigan Tech, particularly within the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering (CEGE).
He added that he was especially thankful for the support from his academic advisor, Julie Ross. Mead-O’Brien said Ross’ extensive knowledge of the CEGE program and thoughtful guidance enabled him to make the most of his time at Tech.
“She’s been really instrumental to my experience,” he said. “Many of the moments that stand out most are centered around the people here.”
As he prepares for commencement, Mead-O’Brien’s goal as the undergraduate student speaker is simple: share both what he’s learned and deliver a message that others will find meaningful.
About the College of Engineering
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