CSM Alumnus Finds Success Through Southern Maryland Engineering Partnership

From the Talons Robotics team to the Department of Defense (DoD), College of Southern Maryland (CSM) graduate Michael McGrath is on his way to becoming a professional engineer.

McGrath graduated from CSM in May with an Associate of Science degree in Engineering. He will be attending the University of Maryland’s A James Clarke School of Engineering at the University Systems of Maryland at Southern Maryland (USMSM) campus in the fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. To support his next step, McGrath received a Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) scholarship, a highly competitive, nationwide program through the DoD that supports scholars entering science, technology, engineering, and math fields.

“I am honored to have been selected for the SMART scholarship,” McGrath said. “This will help me to focus on excelling in college while getting an early start in my career. It’s a great blessing.”

In 2025, the DoD awarded about 250 SMART scholarships . The scholarship covers full tuition and provides an annual stipend for academic expenses. In return, the recipients complete summer internships and commit to working as civilian employees with the DoD after graduation.

As part of this scholarship, McGrath began working in the Summer Student Employment Program (SSEP) at the Naval Warfare Center (NSWC) Indian Head, gaining mechanical engineering experience through modeling, simulation, and additive manufacturing.

During his time at CSM, McGrath gained practical engineering experience through the Talons Robotics team. He also participated in the Southern Maryland Engineering Partnership Program, opportunities that helped prepare him for his current and future roles.

The engineering partnership allows students to start their academic journey at CSM to earn an associate degree in engineering before transferring to the University of Maryland at USMSM as a junior to pursue a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Once completed, students may have opportunities for full-time employment with the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD).

Program Coordinator Christine Owens said the partnership helps retain the talent in Southern Maryland while helping students reach their professional goals.

“Engineering is a critical part of our regional workforce and culture,” Owens said. “There is a unique opportunity here for students to stay close to home and build a successful career in engineering. This partnership gives students a clear path to do that, while saving thousands of dollars in tuition and academic expenses.”

Looking ahead to the University of Maryland at USMSM, McGrath credits his time at CSM for preparing him for a trajectory of success.

“The programs at CSM and USMSM are closely aligned so the transition will be as seamless as possible,” McGrath said. “My participation on the CSM Talons Robotics team the past two years has allowed me to apply skills I learned in the classroom to solve real-world challenges and develop a valuable skill set. My time at CSM was very beneficial to my academic and professional future.”

Engineering students may apply for the SMART scholarship through the DoD beginning August 1. There are also many scholarship options available through the CSM Foundation. Students are encouraged to explore the Foundation website for more information about eligibility and how to apply.