Isaac Webber Finds Purpose and Possibility in Engineering at UMaine
Support from the Harold “Brownie” Brown Scholarship Fund has helped mechanical engineering student Isaac Webber focus fully on his education at the University of Maine, giving him the freedom to devote his time to hands-on experiences, such as his senior capstone and advanced design projects, without worrying about financial stress. For Isaac, that support has meant being able to immerse himself in the work that first inspired him to pursue engineering – designing, building, and testing real-world solutions alongside his classmates.
A Bangor native raised in Garland, just 40 minutes from campus, Isaac always felt a natural connection to UMaine. With parents, cousins, and family friends who are alumni, becoming a Black Bear felt like coming home. That sense of belonging helped shape his path into mechanical engineering, a field he values for its blend of creativity and problem-solving. “Nearly everything around you has had a mechanical engineer’s work behind it somewhere,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to design, build, and innovate.”
For his senior capstone project, Isaac helped design and build a mission-tailored electric aircraft for an international competition hosted by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, collaborating with teammates to test and refine the aircraft. Outside the lab, he spent four years playing trumpet in the Screamin’ Black Bear Band, building friendships and community across campus.
Now taking graduate courses and continuing his studies, Isaac is also gaining hands-on experience through an internship focused on optimizing composite ballistic armor. Without a research stipend, scholarship support has been especially meaningful as he works to fund his education while completing his degree. “This support has allowed me to focus on my education and take advantage of everything UMaine has to offer,” he said. “It’s made a real difference in what I’ve been able to accomplish.” Grateful for the opportunities he’s had, he hopes to one day give back and help create the same possibilities for future students.
Editor’s note: Isaac is from Garland, Maine, and received the University of Maine Retirees Harold “Brownie” Brown Scholarship Fund, established to support students related to the UMaine retiree community and awarded in honor of his grandmother, Donna, who dedicated more than 40 years of service to the University of Maine Admissions Office.
