The best engineering lessons do not start with a lecture, but with real problems.

That approach has defined the career of Dr. Ryan Hutcheson, teaching professor in the cooperative engineering program at Missouri State University. He recently received the 2025 Missouri University of Science and Technology (S&T) Faculty Achievement Award.

The honor recognizes his impact on students in the program. It enables students to earn a Missouri S&T engineering degree on Missouri State’s Springfield campus.

A career built on real work

Hutcheson joined the cooperative engineering program in 2020, after more than a decade teaching at Missouri S&T in Rolla, Missouri. His philosophy is rooted in experience — both as an engineer in the field and as an educator.

He believes students learn best when theory meets application, especially through projects that push them outside of their comfort zone. Designing, building, testing and even failing are part of the process.

“Helping students develop their engineering skills and confidence in designing and manufacturing systems is the most rewarding thing I do as an instructor,” Hutcheson said.

That mindset shows up everywhere, from sponsored senior design projects to competitive student teams like Formula SAE, where students tackle complex, real-world engineering challenges.

Engineering education with impact

The cooperative engineering program mirrors the curriculum and accreditation of Missouri S&T in Rolla, while adding a strong local connection to Springfield’s growing engineering industry. Students gain the same technical foundation, plus opportunities shaped by regional needs and partnerships.

Hutcheson is expanding advanced lab spaces, including a motor testing lab and a new power prototyping facility. These investments will give students more chances to design, test and build at a professional level before graduation.

“Recognition matters, but student growth matters more,” he said. “The award simply confirms the value of teaching engineering the hard, hands-on way.”

Explore the cooperative engineering program