Miles Ahead – A Journey in Math and Engineering follows a young boy who discovers a passion for math early in life and follows this love all the way into a career as a professional engineer. What was the inspiration for your story?

The inspiration for Miles Ahead came from my own experiences growing up. Like the character in the book, I developed a fascination with math and engineering at a young age. I wanted to capture that sense of wonder and excitement that comes from discovering something you’re passionate about, and how that passion can shape the course of your life.

The story isn’t just about math; it’s about the journey of following your curiosity, working through challenges, and ultimately finding fulfillment in your chosen career. I also wanted to inspire young readers to see math not just as a subject in school, but as a gateway to endless possibilities—just as it was for me.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

One of the key ideas I wanted to share is the importance of curiosity and persistence. The journey to becoming an engineer—or pursuing any career—rarely follows a straight path. There will always be bumps along the way, but staying curious and determined can help us navigate those challenges. I also wanted to emphasize that math and science aren’t just abstract concepts; they are tools that allow us to understand and shape the world around us.

Another important theme is the value of mentorship and community support. In the book, Miles, the focal character doesn’t achieve success alone—there are people who guide and encourage him along the way. I believe this is a crucial aspect of anyone’s journey, especially in fields like math and engineering, where collaboration and learning from others are key. I have had mentors, wonderful teachers and professors, and family supporting me my entire life. It truly does take a village, and that becomes obvious when we look at the big picture.

Underlying all of this is a real concern: there’s a shortage of professional engineers, and enrollments in engineering colleges have been declining for years. It’s crucial that we nurture children’s passion for STEM early, with the hope that many of them will go on to become the next generation of engineers and scientists.

The engineering profession has been incredibly rewarding for me, and I see this book as my small way of giving back to the field. My hope is that it sparks an interest in young readers and encourages them to consider a career in engineering or the sciences.

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

I had the most fun writing the scenes where Miles first begins to explore the real-world applications of math and engineering. There’s something truly magical about watching a young character connect abstract concepts to tangible outcomes—whether it’s solving a practical problem or discovering how math powers the world around him. I loved capturing that “aha” moment when Miles realizes that math isn’t just about numbers on a page, but something that can make a real difference in his life and the world. It was fun to weave in those moments of discovery and excitement, which I hope will resonate with readers—especially young ones just starting their own journeys.

If I had to choose one scene in particular, it would be the moment when Miles finds out he passed the Professional Engineering Exam. For a licensed professional engineer, the PE Exam is one of the most important milestones in our careers. It’s a game-changer, giving engineers the authority to take on greater responsibility, sign and seal plans, and make a bigger impact in their field. I’ll never forget the intense studying leading up to it, and the joy and pride I felt when I learned that I had passed—shared with my family and fellow colleagues. So, the scene where Miles experiences that same sense of accomplishment is deeply personal and really special to me.

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out and what can your fans expect in the next story?

While Miles Ahead is a standalone story, I’ve been exploring the idea of writing a similar book with a female lead character. This new book would follow a young girl on her journey in engineering or the sciences, much like Miles’ story. Engineering has historically been a male-dominated profession, but I’m glad to see more and more women entering the field. It’s an encouraging trend, and I hope it continues to grow.

By featuring a female main character, my goal is to create a story that inspires young girls to see themselves as future engineers, scientists, and innovators. I also hope this book will resonate with parents and children alike, offering an engaging and empowering perspective on STEM fields.

If this book comes to fruition, readers can expect an inspiring story filled with challenges, growth, and discovery. The main character will navigate obstacles, discover the joy of exploring STEM concepts, and learn the value of perseverance, teamwork, and giving back to her profession. Like Miles Ahead, it will emphasize the importance of mentorship and community support, while showcasing the rewarding journey of following your passions.

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