Class of 2025: Aidan Winkhart
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
Aidan Winkhart will be the student speaker for the commencement scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 12, at 1 p.m. He is graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
Hometown: Navarre, Ohio
High School: Canton Central Catholic
Parents: Scott and Kristy Winkhart
Q: Why did you want to go to UA?
A: I chose The University of Akron because it immediately felt like home. UA offered the right environment and opportunities for me to grow and earn a great mechanical engineering degree, and it was clear from the start that it was the best place for me to build my foundation.
Q: What campus activities were you involved in?
A: I was involved in Emerging Leaders, the UA Bass Fishing Club, Society of Sales Engineers and Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.
Q: What will you miss most about UA?
A: I’ll miss the community the most, especially the people I’ve met through the College of Business and the College of Engineering and Polymer Science who have shaped my experience and career outlook. UA has given me meaningful relationships, mentors, and opportunities that I’m genuinely grateful for.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I’ll be moving to Fort Wayne, Ind., where I’ll be leading the sales team for Gardiner HVAC. It’s an exciting next step that lets me grow my career in both engineering and sales while taking on a leadership role right out of school.
Q: What is your favorite memory of UA?
A: My favorite memory was easily competing for UA at the National Society of Sales Engineers competitions, especially the 2024 event in Marshalltown, Iowa. It challenged us, brought our team closer together and gave us the chance to meet and connect with other chapters across the country.
Q: What unique things should we know about you?
A: I love the outdoors and spend as much time as I can hunting and fishing. I also enjoy designing and making custom fishing lures, which sparked my interest in entrepreneurship. In my life, I have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, and that has shaped a lot of who I am, especially my drive to lead and take on new challenges.