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Ethan Trinh, BSc Mechanical Engineering

Engineering his own success, student builds a career one mechanical system at a time

Learn About the Program

It was a case of love at first sight when Ethan Trinh, a self-described ‘tinkerer and builder,’ first learned about mechanical systems as a youth. He was initially focused on planes, trains and automobiles, but it was followed in close succession by its sequel — gears, pulleys and robotics. 

His passion for all things mechanical only deepened throughout his program, where he advanced his skills and took on various roles in student clubs, including the , and, perhaps most memorably, the student project group where he helped lead his team to Best Mechanical Award at the 2022 Canadian Hyperloop Conference. 

“It was a wonderful reminder that perseverance does pay off,” he says, adding that he is always looking for opportunities to push the boundaries of technology. 

Focused on developing as an engineer, Ethan continues to seek out leadership roles that contribute to positive, tangible impact in the world. Currently, he is serving as director for several upcoming projects, including the 2026 (he has led the U of A’s top teams to WEC for three consecutive years) and the 2027 Canadian Engineering Leadership Conference, both of which will be hosted at the U of A. 

Not surprisingly, Ethan’s commitment to his field and readiness to utilize his skills has ensured a seamless transition from university to a full-time E.I.T. (Engineer-in-Training) position, following graduation.

Congratulations Ethan!

What program are you graduating from?

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

What led you to choose your current area of study, and why the U of A for your studies?

Growing up, I had an interest in understanding how cars, trains and airplanes function. This early curiosity stemmed from practical applications via VEX and FIRST Robotics, where I fell in love with mechanical systems such as gears and pulleys. I liked converting 2D designs into 3D products via projects and 3D printing, which naturally led to mechanical engineering. I chose the ß÷ßäÉçÇø because of its reputation in engineering, and because it had a well-structured program that's not too far from my home city of Calgary (yes I didn't like U of C). After completing this degree, I am looking forward to seeing the program grow even further, with the addition of the new .

What is one of your favourite memories from your time at the U of A?

One of my favorite experiences was being in mechanical team and seeing our very first working hyperloop prototype come to life in Spring 2022. Months of non-stop work and failure, and seeing it function and go on to win the Best Mechanical Award at the 2022 Canadian Hyperloop Conference was just incredible. It was a wonderful reminder that perseverance does pay off.

Tell us about your favourite professor and/or class.

Professor or ‘Cap’ as he is known to many of us was by far my favourite professor. He has a talent for actually getting to know his students and making classes fun. I was lucky enough to have both (Mechanics and Design of Composites) and (Busting Myths with Analysis) from him. Mythbusting was a highlight — there's no other course where you study the mechanics behind movie scenes, weapons or individuals leaping out of caskets for presentations. It made engineering educational and fun.

Did you take on any leadership roles while you were a student? 

It was a privilege to serve as the 2024-2025 academic year's (ESS) co-director of competitions, facilitating the 2024 U of A Engineering Competition (UAEC), facilitating our champions' journey to the 2025 Western Engineering Competition (WEC) in Saskatoon and advancing UAEC to a full-fledged two-day event with more than 200 participants. I also created new documentation and historic plaques to give more material for future organizers.

I was previously the 2023–2024 ESS competitions coordinator, which involved helping to coordinate the 2023 UAEC as well as preparing our teams for WEC 2024 in Winnipeg.

Apart from being at ESS, I have also been VP external of ß÷ßäÉçÇøloop (2023-2024), beginning new initiatives with the APEGA and the faculties, revitalizing our social life and helping increase recognitions even when I was working remotely from Calgary.

I am continuing this tradition of service as a director for the (senior design) and a director for the 2027 Canadian Engineering Leadership Conference (director of sponsors and outreach), both of which are hosted here at the U of A.

Did you face any significant obstacles or challenges during your program?

As with so many students during the pandemic, I too had difficulty with the abrupt transition to virtual classes during my freshman year. I actually flunked a class — a difficult but humbling experience. Rather than getting lost, I learned through methods such as the Pomodoro technique, improved note-taking habits and summer school to restore my GPA and get back on track. Most importantly, receiving acceptance into my desired program of mechanical engineering. Looking back, that failure taught me to be strong and how to adapt when things change.

What advice do you have for current and future students?

Don't pack it all in trying to do your degree as fast as you can. If you have to re-sequence and take a lighter course load, so be it. It's worth it to give yourself time to actually absorb your classes, build up your project portfolio and make a lasting impact in clubs or competitions.

How do you plan on celebrating convocation?

I’m planning a long-awaited vacation through Oceania and Asia, and will spend some time relaxing and celebrating with my family back home in Calgary.

What's next after graduation?

I’m excited to be starting my career right away. I was fortunate to secure an E.I.T. (Engineer-in-Training) position before even receiving my Iron Ring, and I’ll be starting work in June!