Meet Wyatt Phillips
We sat down with Wyatt Phillips to discuss his time at CECS and future goals.
What interested you about CECS?
“When I explored transferring to UTK, I learned that some of my credits would not carry over, which led me to look for alternative pathways. During that search, I discovered CECS and was immediately drawn to the range of degrees and certificates it offered. I wanted to explore something new while staying within the broader tech and engineering space. After meeting with Dr. Stepanov, I felt reassured that CECS would allow me to build on my existing credits while still pursuing what I was genuinely interested in. Ultimately, what interested me most was the opportunity to enter an emerging field where I could enjoy what I was learning and still make a meaningful impact with my career.”
What is your major? Why did you choose it?
“I am majoring in Applied Artificial Intelligence, along with a certificate in Cybersecurity. When I chose my major, the options were more limited than they are today, but after reviewing the coursework, I realized how broad and flexible the AI curriculum was. With my background in Computer Science, the subject felt like a natural next step, and everything clicked into place. The CECS certificate programs also made it easy to expand my skill set, and cybersecurity was a field I had already been curious about. I appreciate how well the CECS degrees and certificates complement each other, allowing me to develop skills across AI, cybersecurity, data analysis, ethics, and governance rather than focusing on just one narrow area.”
What is your favorite part about being a CECS student?
“It’s difficult to choose just one favorite aspect, but the professors in CECS are what truly make my experience at UTK special. In a field that evolves incredibly quickly, they do an excellent job of making courses intuitive, engaging, and relevant to real-world applications. They are approachable, flexible, and genuinely invested in student success. Every professor I’ve had in CECS has shown a strong commitment to helping students grow, and that level of support is something I deeply value.”
If you could tell other students one thing about CECS/our courses, what would it be?
“Even if you aren’t a CECS major, I would strongly encourage students to explore the certificate programs CECS offers. Each certificate provides hands-on experience in emerging fields that many students might not otherwise have access to. Through capstone projects and industry mentorship, you gain exposure to real-world problems and current industry challenges. These experiences gave me a strong sense of responsibility and accomplishment, and they closely mirrored what working in a professional environment feels like.”
What do you hope to do after graduation?
“After graduation, I hope to work in sustainability or medical research, where I can apply my technical skills to problems that have a meaningful impact on society.”